Gondhal review: A riveting thriller that masterfully integrates drama and suspense
The story of 'Gondhal' is set in a quaint village and revolves around Suman (Ishita Deshmukh), who is wed to Aanand (Yogesh Sohoni), a youthful and naïve scion of a distinguished family in the community. Compounding the tension, Sarjerao Patil (Nishad Bhoir), the heir of another affluent yet ruthless lineage, harbors an intense infatuation for Suman, despite her marital commitments. He is resolute in his pursuit of desire, leaving the audience to ponder whether Suman embodies the same innocence as Aanand or if she harbors ulterior motives. Gondhal is a traditional Marathi folk art form that is typically performed throughout the night during auspicious occasions, such as weddings. This performance involves an intricate blend of dancing and singing to recount mythological narratives. The story of 'Gondhal' unfolds over the course of a single night, as the families of the newlywed couple, Suman and Anand, along with other villagers, convene to witness this ritual. Bhivaba (Kishore Kadam) arrives to conduct the ceremony, aiming to purify and dispel obstacles from their lives, accompanied by his grandson Vishnu, who is there to observe the proceedings.
Crafting a film centered around folk rituals performed in intimate, rural settings is a precarious endeavor. A minor miscalculation can render the efforts of the writer-director and actors fruitless. The challenge is further magnified by the fact that a significant portion of the audience may be unfamiliar with these folk traditions, potentially leading to perplexity regarding references to deities, mythological tales, and regional customs.
Nevertheless, debutant writer-director Santosh Davakhar has not only traversed this delicate terrain with remarkable finesse but has also conceived a passion project that engrosses the audience, including those unacquainted with the rituals, until the very conclusion. 'Gondhal' commences with a meticulously orchestrated and executed 25-minute long continuous shot, introducing the audience to each character, their connections with the newlyweds Suman and Anand, the folk artists performing 'Gondhal', the villagers, and their concealed motives and desires. The narrative intricately explores the lives and circumstances of the characters, propelling them along their chosen trajectories. This film exudes a captivating atmosphere, immersing viewers in the nocturnal folk rituals that unfold in a shadowy village. A dramatic plot twist just prior to the intermission transforms the film into a gripping thriller in its latter half.
'Gondhal' also exemplifies excellence in its technical facets, particularly in cinematography and lighting. The majority of scenes are meticulously filmed on location, with the esteemed cinematographer Amalendu Chaudhary infusing a sense of realism and authenticity that captivates viewers and evokes profound emotions through his distinctive methodology. The cinematography adeptly elicits specific feelings, establishing the tone for several pivotal moments and amplifying the narrative's resonance. The lighting emerges as another commendable strength of the film, with its dark and shadowy imagery conjuring an atmosphere of mystery and foreboding.
With the exception of Kishor Kadam, the cast predominantly comprises relatively nascent talent. Kishor Kadam's role in this film, characterized by its multifaceted layers, underscores his versatility as an actor. Nishad Bhoir's portrayal of Surjirao is both formidable and imposing, with his restrained acting style imbuing the role with considerable depth. Ishita Deshmukh, who embodies Suman, delivers a remarkable performance as a newlywed whose innocence may merely be a façade. Yogesh Sohoni's representation of Aandya is particularly striking, marked by the significant transformation he undergoes. Kailash Vaghamare also renders a noteworthy performance as an individual tasked with performing a Gondhal. Suresh Vishwakarma and Vitthal Kale provide robust support to the principal cast.
'Gondhal' is deeply rooted in Maharashtra's cultural heritage, probing the complexities of human emotions, relational dynamics, and the capricious nature of circumstances. This enthralling narrative seamlessly weaves together drama and suspense, driven by multifaceted characters and the myriad twists of their inner lives, ensuring a mesmerizing cinematic experience from start to finish. Santosh Davakhar merits special commendation for his unwavering fervor, as evidenced by the creation of a film that is both technically and creatively demanding. The end result stands as a testament to the dedication of Davakhar and the entire ensemble, both in front of and behind the camera, rendering this movie a genuine masterpiece. "Gondhal" heralds Davakhar's emergence as a significant figure in the realm of filmmaking.
'Gondhal' is a distinguished film that eclipses others I have encountered this year, rendering it a must-see for those in search of innovation and uniqueness within Marathi cinema, while inspiring fellow filmmakers to venture into uncharted creative territories.
Cast: Ishita Deshmukh
Yogesh Sohoni, Kishor Kadam, Nishad Bhoir
Writer: Santosh Davakhar
Director: Santosh Davakhar
Also Read: Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale review: Despite the noble intentions, the film falters due to weak script
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