Jhansi Ki Rani

"Jhansi Ki Rani" recreates the historical saga of 1857 mutiny, often considered the first freedom fight against the British Rule, led by the queen of Jhansi, Laxmi Bai. It chronicles the life history of the queen as a nine year old child married to the king to her fight for the freedom. The film superbly portrays the historical period, often untouched in movies, with superb sets and background yet avoiding oversentimentality or preachiness till the end. It vividly recreates the historical account of the British rule that spread under conspiracy, as the film points. Unlike the regular stereotypes, it portrays few benevolent characters among the British and few conspirators among the Indian as well.

Perhaps a bit unknown historical saga, it deserves an applause for the historical legacy it carries which very well depicts an important chapter of rebellion. Directed by a movie pioneer Sohrab Modi, he gives a hype through his impeccable performance as well. Perhaps his superb direction and performance are what make the film praise worthy. However there are certain flaws in it. It plays well in the first half with a lot of warmth and superb sets. But in the later part the role of Mehtab as the Jhansi Ki Rani lacks a zeal and so does the war scenes. Overall, it's a remarkable historical movie which needs to be seen and remade.

Rating: 3 stars out of 4.