Ponga Pandit

Ponga Pandit review :

Randhir Kapoor's rare solo success in the '70s where he played a village simpleton once again after Rampur Ka Lakshman (1972); the titular role of Ponga Pandit suited him perfectly and I consider this to be his career best performance.

Neeta Mehta was cast opposite Daboo (Randhir's real life pet name in case you aren't aware) as the ultra glam sheher ki ladki who disowns her shuddh bramhachari gaon ka chorra husband (Daboo) of child marriage. Next, Daboo dear follows Neeta biwi to the city and becomes a big pop star. Naturally, Neeta falls for Daboo unaware that he is actually her husband.

The film is a complete mass entertainer with good songs, genuinely funny situations and two glam dolls- Neeta and Prema Narayan- in swim suits. Particularly, Neeta looked quite hot and sexy in the lead role. Surprisingly, Ranjeet was cast in a positive role though he played a rogue. Danny was impressive as Rocky, the pop star whose popularity fades after Daboo enters the scene.

Ponga Pandit inspired Govinda starrer Banarasi Babu (1998) which borrowed quite a few of its plot points. Later, Aditya Chopra made Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008) with similar theme. But forget these copies, the original is the best. No doubt!!

Regards, Sumeet Nadkarni.