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“Pad Man” is a biographical drama film released on February 9, 2018. Directed by R. Balki, the movie is inspired by the real-life story of Arunachalam Muruganantham, a social entrepreneur who revolutionized menstrual hygiene in rural India. Starring Akshay Kumar, Radhika Apte, and Sonam Kapoor, the film tackles a socially relevant topic with a mix of humor and heartfelt moments. Through its compelling narrative, “Pad Man” seeks to break societal taboos while inspiring change.
Plot Summary
The movie follows the journey of Lakshmikant Chauhan (Akshay Kumar), a simple man living in a small Indian village. Troubled by his wife’s struggles with menstrual hygiene, he embarks on a mission to create affordable sanitary pads. Facing ridicule and opposition from society, Lakshmi’s determination never wavers. His journey takes him from his village to global recognition, showcasing his resilience and ingenuity. While the film highlights his struggles, it also emphasizes the importance of awareness and education about menstrual health.
What’s Good?
1. Stellar Performances: Akshay Kumar delivers one of his most heartfelt performances, bringing depth and sincerity to Lakshmi’s character. Radhika Apte shines as his supportive yet conflicted wife, adding emotional weight to the story. Sonam Kapoor’s portrayal of a modern, progressive woman provides a refreshing contrast.
2. Direction and Screenplay: R. Balki’s direction ensures that the sensitive subject is handled with care. The screenplay strikes a balance between humor and drama, making the story engaging without being preachy.
3. Music and Background Score: The music by Amit Trivedi complements the narrative beautifully. Songs like “Aaj Se Teri” add an emotional layer, while the background score enhances key moments.
4. Cinematography: The visuals capture the essence of rural India, highlighting both its beauty and its challenges. The vibrant yet realistic depiction of village life adds authenticity to the story.
5. Social Impact: The film’s greatest strength lies in its message. By addressing menstrual hygiene, it sparks conversations about a topic often considered taboo, encouraging viewers to think and act differently.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- The film’s ability to blend entertainment with a strong social message is commendable.
- Akshay Kumar’s performance and the emotional core of the story resonate deeply with the audience.
- The humor is light-hearted and never undermines the seriousness of the subject.
Weaknesses:
- Some parts of the story feel overly dramatized, which might detract from the realism.
- The pacing in the second half could have been tighter, as certain scenes feel stretched.
- While Sonam Kapoor’s character adds value, her arc feels underdeveloped compared to the rest of the narrative.
Target Audience
“Pad Man” is ideal for audiences who enjoy socially relevant cinema with a strong message. Families, especially those with teenagers, can benefit from the film’s educational aspect. Fans of Akshay Kumar and those who appreciate inspirational stories will also find it engaging. However, it may not appeal to viewers looking for pure escapism or action-packed entertainment.
Box Office Details
Budget: The film was made on a budget of approximately INR 20 crores.
Worldwide Box Office Collection: “Pad Man” grossed around INR 120 crores worldwide, making it a commercial success.
Day-wise Earnings:
- Day 1 (India): INR 10.26 crores
- Day 2 (India): INR 13.68 crores
- Day 3 (India): INR 16.11 crores
- Day 4 (India): INR 5.87 crores
- Day 5 (India): INR 6.12 crores
Overseas Earnings: The film performed well internationally, especially in countries with a significant Indian diaspora, contributing around INR 20 crores to the total collection.
Recommendation
“Pad Man” is a thought-provoking film that combines entertainment with a powerful message. While it has minor flaws, its heart is in the right place. A must-watch for those who value meaningful cinema, it’s a movie that not only entertains but also inspires change.
Genres:
Comedy, Drama
Rating:
7.4/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Akshay Kumar | Lakshmikant Chauhan |
| Radhika Apte | Gayatri Chauhan |
| Sonam Kapoor Ahuja | Pari Walia |
| Jyoti Subhash | Subhadra Chauhan |
| Mrinmayee Godbole | Sonali Chauhan |
| Soumya Vyas | Aabha Chauhan |
| Riva Bubber | Asha Varma |
| Urmila Mahanta | Savitri Modi |
| Amitabh Bachchan | Self |
| Suneel Sinha | Tejas Walia |
| Rakesh Chaturvedi | Sanjeev Sharma |
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