Watch Anupama

Anupama is a classic Bollywood film that was released in 1966. The movie is directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee and stars Dharmendra, Sharmila Tagore, and Shashikala Jawalkar in the lead roles. It is a poignant tale of a young girl named Uma (Sharmila), who is shunned by her mother due to her perceived shortcomings, but finds solace in a sympathetic stranger (Dharmendra).

The story revolves around a family that consists of a mother, father, and their two children, Anu and Arun. The mother (Shashikala) is a strict and controlling woman who is obsessed with maintaining her image in society. She is disappointed with her daughter Uma, who she deems to be unattractive and introverted. As a result, Uma grows up with a severe inferiority complex and has very little confidence in herself.

The family takes a trip to the outskirts of the city for a vacation. Uma goes exploring and stumbles upon a young man named Ashok (Dharmendra) who is practicing flute. She is immediately drawn to his music, and the two strike up a conversation. Ashok is a kind and empathetic person who recognizes Uma's struggles and tries to help her overcome them.

Over the course of their interactions, Uma begins to open up to Ashok and finds a sense of belonging with him. However, their relationship is tested when Ashok's family finds out about his friendship with Uma, and they disapprove of it. Ashok's mother believes that Uma is not suitable for her son and tries to sabotage their relationship.

Meanwhile, Uma's mother also grows suspicious of her daughter's behavior and tries to put a stop to her interactions with Ashok. She confronts Uma and tells her that she is not good enough for anyone and should not have any hopes for a happy future. This only makes Uma more dejected and unhappy.

Throughout the film, Anupama juxtaposes the themes of conformity and individuality, as well as the pursuit of happiness versus the fulfillment of societal expectations. The audience is compelled to witness Uma's growth as she learns to embrace herself, despite the demands of society and the disapproval of her mother. She ultimately finds a sense of freedom and self-confidence in the face of adversity.

The film's soundtrack is also worth mentioning. The music is composed by the legendary Hindi film composer, Hemant Kumar. The soundtrack features some of the most popular Bollywood songs of all time. Hemant Kumar's music is one of the highlights of the film, and it adds to the emotional intensity of the story.

Overall, Anupama is a classic Bollywood film that delivers a timeless message. It explores the complexities of familial relationships, individualism, and the unique struggle of finding oneself in a society that demands conformity. The performances of the lead actors are outstanding, and the story is both moving and relatable, even to this day. It's a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema and anyone who appreciates emotionally-driven storytelling.