This film encapsulates 'moral authority' wielded by upper-caste landlords over lower-caste peasantry

By Harsh Thakor*

Made 40 years ago, of "Paar" is a seminal Hindi film from 1984 directed by Gautam Ghose and featuring Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi in lead roles. The film, based on Samaresh Basu's Bengali story "Paari," follows a Dalit couple forced to flee their village after a horrific massacre, chronicling their harrowing journey and quest for a place to call home.

"Paar" stands as a cornerstone of Indian Parallel Cinema, akin to the works of illustrious directors like Mrinal Sen and Shyam Benegal. Few films in Indian cinema have depicted the entrenched injustices that pervade society with such poignant clarity, illustrating the deep-seated ramifications of oppression on the human experience. It profoundly resonates with viewers as it sheds light on the struggles of marginalized communities weighed down by local and state authorities. 

The film is an unflinching portrayal of the exploitation embedded within rural India, exposing the scourge of the caste system, inadequate land reforms, and the brutal societal dynamics that perpetuate oppression. It delves into the psyche of those entrenched in feudal structures and illustrates how individuals navigate this oppressive landscape. 

Even today, as Brahmanical power dynamics resurge, the film's themes hold significant relevance, as caste-based violence continues to be prevalent in rural areas. In an era marked by wide economic disparities, "Paar" would benefit from a contemporary revival that highlights its timeless message. Through its narrative, it reveals how suffering can inspire resilience and foster profound spiritual transformations amidst adversity. 

Set against the backdrop of Bihar, a state rife with social turmoil and multiple massacres from the late 1980s to the early 2000s, the film encapsulates the moral authority wielded by upper-caste landlords over the Dalit and lower-caste peasantry. Lauded for its artistic merit, "Paar" secured numerous national and international accolades, with Naseeruddin Shah winning the prestigious Volpi Cup for his role at the Venice Film Festival. 

Plot overview 

The story of "Paar" unfolds in a small Bihar village, under the shroud of dusk, as Dalit laborers prepare their evening meals. Suddenly, the landlords' henchmen descend like a storm, igniting chaos. Houses are set ablaze, and men and women are brutally killed, leaving only a few survivors, including Naurangia and his pregnant wife, Rama. In the aftermath, local authorities -- police, press, and village leaders -- gather to address the tragic events that just transpired. 

The catalyst for the violence was the village schoolmaster (Anil Chatterjee), a noble figure who believed in sharing the fruits of freedom with the downtrodden. His encouragement leads a Dalit man (Om Puri) to run for the Panchayat elections, inciting wrath among the landlords. As tensions escalate, the landlords resort to violence, resulting in the murder of the schoolteacher and a retaliatory killing by Naurangia and his allies. 

Even today, as Brahmanical power dynamics resurge, the film's themes hold significant relevance

Forced to flee their burning village, Naurangia and Rama embark on a desperate journey to Kolkata, navigating a landscape where hope seems scarce. Their struggles culminate in a perilous task: driving a herd of pigs across a treacherous river, a job only the most desperate would accept. 

The journey is fraught with danger, yet it serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience and survival. As the couple fights against overwhelming odds to protect their unborn child, the film skillfully conveys themes of hope intertwined with despair. 

Highlights of "Paar"

One of the film’s most striking attributes is its authenticity; it lacks flashy costumes, vulgarity, or superficiality, embodying Brechtian realism. Ghose's artistic finesse is evident as he weaves a minimalist plot into a compelling narrative that unfolds in two distinct halves—one exploring the reasons behind Naurangia's flight, and the other depicting their poignant journey through pain and determination. 

The visual storytelling is arresting; the darkness of the massacre and the ensuing chaos is rendered vividly, employing low-speed film stock to enhance the film’s somber atmosphere. The brutality faced by the protagonists is juxtaposed with moments of poetic imagery, including the gripping scene of Naurangia and Rama navigating turbulent waters while driving their pigs to safety. Shah and Azmi share a powerful on-screen chemistry, bringing their characters to life with authenticity. 

Their performances reflect deep emotional resonance, with Naseeruddin Shah epitomizing helplessness and Shabana Azmi embodying the profound humiliation of their plight. The supporting cast, including Anil Chatterjee and Om Puri, also deliver noteworthy performances that reinforce the film's themes of resistance and self-identity among the oppressed. 

In conclusion, "Paar" remains a vital cinematic work that unearths the complexities of caste oppression and the human spirit's resilience.

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*Freelance journalist