Paheli
revolves around an enchanting ghost who falls in love with Lachchi,
a newly-wedded bride.
When
the wedding party takes a breather on their way home, they are unaware
that their resting place is the residence of a ghost.
When
they reach their final destination, Lachchi is devastated to learn
that her husband, Kishanlal (Shah Rukh Khan), is making preparations
to leave her behind for five long years on account of business elsewhere.
The
friendly ghost gets wind of this news and takes on the appearance
of the groom so that he can be with the woman he loves.
He
goes one step further by revealing that he is a ghost. Surprisingly,
she accepts him whole-heartedly over her husband's insensitive feelings.
Since
the ghost takes on the form of Kishanlal, his swift return is explained
with an unbelievable story which is accepted by the family. They
are only too happy to see him back home.
The
film takes a turn when Lachchi learns that she is pregnant.
Meanwhile
the real Kishanlal starts missing his wife and so decides to pay
her and his family a surprise visit. But his return is met with
a cold welcome. He is shocked to see a 'duplicate' of himself already
present in his own home.
This
mystery is solved by taking both Kishanlals to the King. On their
way they meet a crazy shepherd (Amitabh Bachchan) who devises three
tests to find the real one. But there is another twist to this folk
tale... watch this film to find out what happens!
Paheli
can be ranked as one of the finest productions in recent times.
Director Amol Palekar has created a colourful film from the Rajasthani
folk tale.
From
start to finish, each frame transports you to a land full of golden
sand dunes, blue skies and Rajasthani culture.
Rani
Mukerji has never looked so good on camera as the newly-married
Lachchi. Shah Rukh Khan as Kishanlal looks dashing with the moustache.
What can you say about this King of Bollywood - he is the best!
Amitabh
Bachchan in a cameo role is fantastic as the crazy shepherd while
Anupam Kher as the greedy father of Kishanlal, brings a smile every
time he appears on the scene.
And
not to forget Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah's voices for
the two puppets as they narrate the story. A great idea by Palekar!
Overall,
Paheli is picture perfect in every way. Remember it is a
Rajasthani folk tale and not a story based on reality.
An
excellent all-round entertainer whether it is the special effects,
the screenplay or its musical score - this film will bring a smile
to your face.
Reviewed
by Manish Gajjar
91Èȱ¬ Shropshire Bollywood
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