Language: Hindi
Time: 2 hours 14 mins
Biography: Drama
Critic’s Rating: 4.0/5
The film chronicles the life of blind industrialist Srikanth Bolla (played by Rajkummar Rao), focusing on his struggles with education and entrepreneurship and how he overcomes them with the support of his business partner and teacher.
Review of Srikanth: When a well-known person’s life story is made into a movie for the big screen, you can anticipate a glorified biopic. Conversely, Srikanth adopts a surprisingly modest and honest style. The story chooses for a more nuanced representation of the hero instead of going for the larger-than-life familiar.
The storyline, written by Sumit Purohit and Jagdeep Sidhu, is straightforward and lacks the excitement and intensity of a sports drama or historical event. Nevertheless, filmmaker Tushar Hiranandani keeps the viewer interested by emphasizing the resilience of a blind guy who overcomes obstacles not with sympathy but rather with cunning and situational awareness. He also has an impact on the urgently required shift in the nation’s perception and treatment of people with disabilities (PwDs).
The movie does a good job of capturing Srikanth’s problems with the Indian educational system and career prospects, however it sometimes repeats itself. For example, the societal perceptions that blind persons have no other options for employment but to make candles or beg. Those who are skeptical of Srikanth leaving while he is still speaking.
The striking contrast between India and the West is also emphasized in the film. Despite winning the 12th board examinations, Srikanth is rejected by Indian institutions; yet, four foreign universities accept him solely on the basis of merit. It also highlights India’s inadequate infrastructure and lack of road safety.
Rajkummar Rao gives a strong portrayal of Srikanth, showing off his ability to capture the character’s inner turmoil that comes with fame. When his outrage gives way to insecurity and the charming trait of self-laughing, he really shines. In one scenario, Srikanth stumbles, injures his forehead, and tells his girlfriend Swati (Alaya F) that he has regained his vision. Although Rao does a good job of capturing Srikanth as an adult, his teenage years are not as well-portrayed.
As Srikanth’s encouraging instructor Devika, Jyothika is just as remarkable. Sharad Kelkar portrays his business partner, friend, mentor, and supporter, Ravi, with skill; he is the kind of buddy that everyone needs because of his quiet strength and understanding. The performance of Alaya F as Srikanth’s romantic interest is charming. She could have played a bigger part in the narrative than merely being a romantic component, though; the character deserved more shade.
While Sachet-Parampara’s lovable romance songs Tu Mil Gaya and Tumhe Hi Apna Maana Hai feature in the movie, Aditya Dev’s rendition of Papa Kehte Hain from Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak is the soundtrack’s standout track. ID Rao, a saxophonist, adds an anthem-like aspect that intensifies the triumphal atmosphere of the movie, particularly in the second half that prompts a variety of emotions.
Srikanth delivers a refreshingly honest portrayal that prioritizes potential over glorification, breaking the mould of the biographical genre. It will inspire you and make you spare a thought for those with disabilities who, like the rest of us, deserve human decency and equal opportunity!
