WHY 'BAWARCHI' IS THIS WEEK'S PICK



    Hrishikesh Mukherjee's iconic film 'Bawarchi' starring Rajesh Khanna is all set for a remake. The endearing family drama, that deals with the nuanced relationships of the Sharma household, also marked its 51st anniversary on July 7.


New Delhi: Rajesh Khanna starrer 'Bawarchi' is not only one of the iconic films of the superstar's career, but also a film that shows Bollywood's long-lost era of making meaningful movies that had the audience engaged till the end and carried a social message as well. 'Bawarchi' is a film based on the everyday lives of The Sharmas who reside in 'Shanti Nivas'. This humble abode becomes the canvas on which Hrishikesh Mukherjee masterfully paints a story that transcends time, depicting the trials and triumphs of a middle-class household. Released in 1972, 'Bawarchi' made its mark as the eighth highest-grossing film of the year, captivating audiences with its simple yet profound narrative. Now, on its 51st anniversary, it's the perfect time to rekindle the magic and experience the cinematic brilliance all over again.


In the heartwarming film 'Bawarchi', the Sharma family resides in 'Shanti Nivas', a modest household. The family members are constantly bickering and facing conflicts, leaving them in a state of disarray. In the midst of their chaos, a mysterious cook (played by Rajesh Khanna) arrives, seeking employment. The cook, who introduces himself as Raghu, brings an aura of positivity and charm into the Sharma household. With his impeccable culinary skills and humble demeanor, Raghu manages to win the hearts of the family members one by one. He becomes the glue that binds them together and resolves their issues with his insightful wisdom and unconventional methods.




As Raghu unveils his culinary magic in the kitchen, he simultaneously works his magic on the family dynamics. His presence brings about a transformation within the Sharma family, instilling in them a sense of unity, understanding, and love. He teaches them the value of appreciating the little things in life and finding happiness in their everyday existence. However, Raghu's true identity remains a mystery until the end. He eventually reveals that he is not just an ordinary cook but someone who has a deeper connection to the family. His purpose in entering their lives was to mend their broken relationships and bring them closer together.


Through a series of heartwarming and humorous moments, 'Bawarchi' showcases the power of love, compassion, and understanding in healing fractured relationships. The film beautifully portrays the nuances of everyday life, capturing the essence of a middle-class family's struggles and triumphs. In the end, Raghu's presence and the lessons he imparts bring about a positive transformation in the Sharma household, reminding us of the enduring power of family bonds and the joy that can be found in the simplest of moments.




Rajesh Khanna, the superstar of his time, wins the audience's hearts with his infectious charm and endearing presence. He delves into the character of Raghu with such finesse that he adds layers of depth to the film. Rajesh Khanna's performance in 'Bawarchi' after his stellar performance in another iconic film of his career, 'Anand', made the film another impactful force to reckon with.


As the granddaughter of the Sharma family, Jaya Bhaduri gives a fantastic performance. Her portrayal of a strong, compassionate woman torn between her obligations to her family and her own ambitions is both delicate and potent. The film gains depth from Jaya's skill at subtly expressing a variety of emotions. Famous actors like A K Hangal, Usha Kiran, Durga Khote, Harindranath Chattopadhyay, and Asrani are also included in the ensemble cast, who with their impeccable chemistry and acting skills, bring more relatability to the storyline.



One of the striking aspects of 'Bawarchi' is its ability to capture the intricacies of everyday life with heartfelt sincerity. Hrishikesh Mukherjee's genius lies in his attention to detail, showcasing the mundane yet meaningful moments that often go unnoticed. From the joyous chaos of family gatherings to the bittersweet conflicts and resolutions, 'Bawarchi' beautifully weaves together the tapestry of human emotions. 


'Bawarchi' seamlessly blends humor and drama with a subtle yet powerful social commentary. It highlights the importance of unity, understanding, and empathy within a family and the larger society. The film's underlying message of finding happiness in the simplicity of life remains as relevant today as it was over five decades ago. It serves as a gentle reminder of the values we sometimes overlook in our fast-paced lives. With its relatable characters, memorable dialogues, and nuanced performances, 'Bawarchi' continues to captivate audiences of all generations. Hrishikesh Mukherjee's directorial brilliance and Rajesh Khanna's enigmatic charm make this film a timeless masterpiece.