Watch Mehrban

Mehrban is a captivating Indian film from 1967 that manages to strike a delicate balance between heartwarming drama and poignant romance. Directed by Chatrapal Chauhan, the movie features an impressive cast including the legendary actors Ashok Kumar, Sulochana Latkar, and Sunil Dutt. Set in a rural village, Mehrban explores the complexities of human relationships, societal norms, and the power of love.

The story revolves around Rajendra (Ashok Kumar), a devoted and progressive-minded schoolteacher who lives with his granddaughter Chanda (Naaz) in the village. Rajendra's son Ram (Sunil Dutt) had been disowned by him years ago for marrying against his wishes. However, when Rajendra learns of Ram's tragic demise in a construction accident, he decides to bring his widowed daughter-in-law, Radha (Sulochana Latkar), and her young son, Vijay, to live with him.

As Rajendra opens his doors to Radha and Vijay, he doesn't realize that his presence will stir a whirlwind of emotions and challenges. The orthodox minded villagers, led by the cunning and influential Kesari Prasad (Manmohan Krishna), view Radha and Vijay's presence as an affront to their traditions. They plot to force Rajendra to throw them out of his house, using the excuse that their presence may harm Chanda's future marriage prospects.

Meanwhile, Vijay grows up under Rajendra's loving guidance, unaware of his father's identity and the animosity that the villagers harbor towards his family. The charm and innocence of Vijay's character serve as a contrast to the deep-rooted prejudices of the village that threaten to break the unity and harmony within Rajendra's household.

Adding another layer to the narrative, Rajendra's good friend, Amar (Ramesh Deo), supports him in his endeavors. Amar falls in love with Ram's childhood friend, Shobha (Shashikala), who harbors feelings for Ram. This unrequited love complicates Amar's life and creates further conflicts within the story.

As the village politics escalate, tensions rise, and the movie gracefully delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of compassion. Rajendra's unwavering resolve to protect his family from the villagers' prejudices leads to a series of emotional confrontations and unexpected alliances. Throughout the film, Ashok Kumar delivers a remarkable performance as Rajendra, portraying the character's determination, empathy, and resilience with subtle brilliance.

Mehrban stands out for its exceptional storytelling, captivating performances, and memorable songs composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. The film's music beautifully captures the essence of the narrative and elevates the emotional impact of the story.

The cinematography in Mehrban offers stunning visuals of the enchanting village landscape, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the film. The director, Chatrapal Chauhan, showcases his adeptness at crafting an engaging storyline that delves into the depths of human emotions while keeping the audience hooked throughout.

Ultimately, Mehrban is a moving tale that powerfully illustrates the triumph of love over societal prejudices and emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and acceptance. It expertly resonates with viewers, reminding us of the timeless nature of such themes and the significance of standing up against discrimination in all its forms.

In conclusion, Mehrban is a treasured gem from Indian cinema that captures the hearts of its viewers with its powerful performances, compelling narrative, and nuanced exploration of social dynamics. A true cinematic masterpiece, it continues to touch the souls of audiences even after more than five decades since its release.

Mehrban is a 1967 kids & family movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.