Everyone knows about Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, but not much is known about him as a father to his children. Gandhi My Father tells the story of Harilal Gandhi [Son of Mahatma Gandhi] and the relationship he shared with his parents, more particularly with his father, the great Mahatma - father of nation.
Gandhi My Father is a film based on true events. Mahatma Gandhi could transform the soul of a nation, but could not save the soul of his own son. The film unfolds a personal tragedy about a principled father and an unfortunate son. The story is not about the freedom movement and the pivotal role played by the Mahatma, but it highlights the sensitive relationship between a father and son. To recreate the bygone era and get the right set of actors to enact the characters is big challenge. It is very tough to make a film which is based on Mahatma Gandhi and a far bigger challenge is to present the relationship shared by the Mahatma and his son Harilal.
Since the story of Harilal is not known to many, you absorb every incident like a sponge absorbs water. It's an enlightening experience and also a moving one. Your heart goes out to Harilal and his plight, more so towards the sunset of his life, makes you moist-eyed. Somewhere in the shadows of a great man [Mahatma Gandhi] lived his son [Harilal Gandhi], roaming the streets of India like a beggar converting to Islam as a rebellion, reconverting to Hinduism as a penance and finally drinking him to death. This movie leaves an unforgettable impression on the viewer.
The director has ensured that every department works in tandem. David Macdonald's cinematography is superb. The ambience transports you to the early 20th century. Make-up done by Penny Smith is of international standard. The transformation of the characters as they age looks so real. Costumes designs of Sujata Sharma suit the theme well. Background score of Piyush Kanojia is appropriate. The director has reproduces facts without resorting to cinematic liberties and at the same time, simplifies everything so that the viewer can decipher it well.
Akshaye Khanna is extraordinary in the role of Harilal Gandhi. He portrays the varied emotions -- angst, sorrow, anger, frustration, love -- with great understanding and maturity and comes up with his career-best work. Darshan Jariwala as Mahatma Gandhi is another great performance. Shefali Shah is awesome. Bhumika Chawla is excellent. Her portions, with Harilal mainly, are well enacted.
On the whole, Gandhi My Father is a treat for movie lovers. As mentioned at the very outset, it's a must-see for all Indians. Gandhi My Father is a must watch for every Indian.
