Vanvaas is a 2024 Hindi drama film directed by Anil Sharma, featuring Nana Patekar, Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat Kaur, and Rajpal Yadav in pivotal roles. The narrative centers on Deepak Tyagi (Nana Patekar), an elderly widower grappling with dementia, whose yearning for a pilgrimage to Varanasi becomes the catalyst for a profound exploration of familial bonds and societal neglect.
Deepak’s life is marred by the indifference of his three sons and their wives, who perceive his illness as a burden. In a heart-wrenching turn, they deceitfully abandon him in Varanasi under the pretense of fulfilling his pilgrimage wish. Lost and disoriented, Deepak encounters Veeru (Utkarsh Sharma), a small-time thief whom he mistakes for a volunteer. Initially seeking to exploit Deepak, Veeru’s conscience leads him to assist in the quest to reunite Deepak with his family, forging an unexpected bond that transcends their disparate worlds.
The film delves into themes of elder neglect, the erosion of familial values, and the societal apathy towards the aging population. Deepak’s journey through the vibrant yet indifferent streets of Varanasi symbolizes the plight of many elderly individuals who are marginalized and forgotten. The narrative juxtaposes Deepak’s unwavering faith in his family with the harsh reality of their betrayal, offering a poignant commentary on the fragility of human relationships.
Nana Patekar delivers a compelling performance, embodying Deepak’s vulnerability and resilience with authenticity. His portrayal captures the nuances of a man battling cognitive decline while clinging to the hope of familial reconciliation. Utkarsh Sharma’s depiction of Veeru provides a counterbalance, illustrating a transformation from self-interest to empathy, reflecting the potential for redemption and the inherent goodness within individuals.
The film’s direction by Anil Sharma is marked by a blend of melodrama and social commentary, reminiscent of earlier Bollywood narratives that explore parental abandonment. While the storyline treads familiar ground, it is elevated by the strong performances and the evocative portrayal of Varanasi’s cultural milieu. The cinematography captures the city’s spiritual essence, serving as a backdrop to Deepak’s internal and external journey.
Critical reception of “Vanvaas” has been mixed. Anuj Kumar of The Hindu noted that Patekar “embraces the quirks and quivers of Deepak Tyagi to generate an emotional bond with the audience.” Conversely, Shalini Langer of The Indian Express described the film as “a plodding affair,” suggesting that while the performances are noteworthy, the narrative may lack freshness. The film’s emotional depth and societal relevance have been acknowledged, though some critiques point to its predictable plot and conventional storytelling.
In summary, “Vanvaas” is a heartfelt exploration of aging, familial duty, and societal neglect, anchored by Nana Patekar’s poignant performance. It serves as a mirror to contemporary societal issues, urging viewers to reflect on their responsibilities towards the elderly and the consequences of apathy.