If you are a fan of Hindi movies, it is not possible that you have not heard of Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Bhansali is known for his extravagant style of storytelling, grandeur, grand music and frames that look like paintings. When we think about Bhansali’s films, the first thing that comes to our minds is probably ‘Bajirao Mastani’ or ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’. But there is much more to explore about his filmography. Here is a short list of films directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali that touch the topic of disability very differently.
Guzaarish (2010)
‘Guzaarish’ stars Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the lead roles and has Shernaz Patel, Aditya Roy Kapur, Saheli Seth, Rajit Kapoor in supporting roles. Hrithik plays the role of Ethan Mascarenhas, who is a magician who suddenly gets paralyzed after a very massive accident during his act. Aishwarya Rai plays Sofia, the nurse who takes care of Ethan. Things change when after 12 years of motivated and cheerful life in the wheelchair, Ethan suddenly wants to pursue Euthanasia or mercy killing. His close ones try to convince him of not making this decision but cannot move him. You should watch this movie for the performances, for the music and the unconventional storyline.
‘Black’ stars Rani Mukherjee and Amitabh Bachchan in the lead roles. It is inspired from ‘The Story Of My Life’ by Helen Keller and the play ‘The Miracle Worker’ by William Gibson. Black tells the story of a little girl who is deaf, mute and blind and her parents are completely hopeless about her. One day a very stubborn teacher with the name of Devraj Sahay comes to their house with the job of educating the girl, Michelle. The teaching style of Sahay is rude, stern and initially very difficult for both the girl and her parents to cope up with. But he and Michelle soon make a very deep bond, and Michelle soon excels beyond the expectations of everybody. Sahay starts suffering from Alzheimer’s soon and Michelle takes on the task of looking after her.
The movie is one of a kind and has terrific performances from all the actors. It is a masterpiece and will make you believe in the filmmaking genius of Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Khamoshi: The Musical (1996) – Amazon Prime Video:
‘Khamoshi’ stars Salman Khan, Manisha Koirala, Nana Patekar in the lead roles. It is the story of a daughter of deaf and mute parents who wants them to understand her as she finds her calling in music. The music album of the movie is as beautiful as any other popular Sanjay Leela Bhansali album. Salman Khan’s acting is pretty decent here, but it is Nana Patekar who steals the show. It is spectacular how Sanjay Leela Bhansali can look beyond the normal range of imagination and explores what is happening inside the mind of a person who is a bit challenged. Khamoshi is one such movie that will change the way you think, or will at least move you and inspire you.