Watch Aakhri Khat
- 1966
- 2 hr 33 min
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7.4 (156)
"Aakhri Khat" is a 1966 Indian film, directed by Chetan Anand and starring Rajesh Khanna, Indrani Mukherjee, and Master Bunty. The movie is a drama about a young artist named Govind (Rajesh Khanna) who comes to Bombay to sell his art. Along the way, he has a brief affair with a young woman named Salma (Indrani Mukherjee). One day, while Govind is exploring the city, he sees a young child named Buntu (Master Bunty) who is lost and alone. Govind takes Buntu under his wing and tries to help him find his way back home. However, Buntu doesn't know where he lives and only has a piece of paper with an address on it. As Govind tries to find Buntu's home, he starts to uncover a series of secrets and mysteries that lead to a heart-wrenching conclusion.
The film was notable for being Rajesh Khanna's first leading role in a Hindi film. He was reportedly paid just Rs. 10,000 for his work on the film, which went on to become a critical success despite being a commercial failure. The film was also known for its realistic portrayal of Bombay's streets and slums, which contrasted with the glamorous Bollywood films of the time.
One of the most striking things about "Aakhri Khat" is its use of real locations and non-actors. Many of the scenes in the film were shot on location in the slums of Bombay, with real people and animals as extras. The film's gritty, realistic style was a departure from the typical glamour and melodrama of Bollywood films.
Another notable aspect of the film is its use of visual storytelling. Since the film's protagonist is an artist, the film is filled with beautiful, evocative images that help to tell the story. Through Govind's art, we see the vibrant colors and textures of Bombay's streets and people. We also see how his art reflects his emotional state, as he struggles with his feelings for Salma and his growing attachment to Buntu.
Overall, "Aakhri Khat" is a powerful, emotionally resonant film that explores themes of love, loss, and the human capacity for compassion. Despite its age, the film's message is still relevant today, and its visual style and realistic approach continue to be admired by filmmakers and audiences alike. For those looking for a classic Indian film that is more than just a typical Bollywood melodrama, "Aakhri Khat" is definitely worth a watch.