Watch Mrityudand

Mrityudand is a hard-hitting social drama from 1997, directed by Prakash Jha, that tells the story of rural India and the struggle of women to maintain their dignity and rights in a patriarchal society. The film stars Shabana Azmi, Madhuri Dixit, Ayub Khan, Mohan Agashe, Om Puri, and many other accomplished actors in pivotal roles. The story takes place in the fictional village of Bilaspur, in Bihar, where the feudal landlord Thakur Durjan Singh (Mohan Agashe) rules with an iron hand, using violence, oppression, and intimidation to dominate the poor farmers and laborers who depend on him for their livelihood. The Thakur also has a deep-seated prejudice against women, whom he treats as inferior beings and subjects to sexual abuse and harassment.

However, the women of Bilaspur, led by Sumitra (Shabana Azmi), the wife of the honest and idealistic schoolteacher Shambhu (Om Puri), refuse to tolerate their oppressors any longer and decide to fight back. They form a group called Mrityudand, which means a final verdict, and start protesting against the Thakur's atrocities, demanding justice and equality.

Madhuri Dixit plays Ketki, Sumitra's younger sister, who is married to the Thakur's younger brother Sajjan Singh (Ayub Khan), a weak and cowardly man who does the Thakur's bidding but secretly sympathizes with the villagers. Ketki, however, is a rebel at heart and dreams of a better life, full of love, freedom, and dignity. She finds solace and companionship in Nandini (Mohini Sharma), a young widow who works as a midwife and shares her ideals.

As the Mrityudand movement gains momentum, the Thakur and his henchmen retaliate with more violence and brutality, causing many casualties and creating a climate of fear and terror. But the women of Bilaspur do not give up, they keep fighting with courage and determination, inspired by the words and deeds of their leaders, Sumitra and Ketki.

The film explores many themes and issues, such as gender discrimination, casteism, corruption, violence, and social justice, in a realistic and sensitive manner. It portrays the rural life of India, with its beauty and charm, but also with its harsh realities and struggles. It shows the power of solidarity and unity among oppressed people, and the role of education and enlightenment in breaking the chains of ignorance and superstition.

The performances of the cast are outstanding, especially Shabana Azmi, who delivers a nuanced and powerful portrayal of Sumitra, a complex and flawed character torn between her duty as a wife and mother, her loyalty to her community, and her inner conflicts. Madhuri Dixit also shines as Ketki, a spirited and rebellious woman who defies the norms and challenges the status quo. Ayub Khan, Mohan Agashe, and Om Puri deliver solid performances as well, giving depth and texture to their respective roles.

The music of the film, composed by Anand-Milind, is melodious and soulful, with some memorable songs like "Badi Mushkil Hai", "Pade Ke Peechhe", and "Dil Tera Aashiq". The cinematography by Rajan Kothari captures the beauty and harshness of the Bihar countryside with skill and sensitivity, creating some breathtaking landscapes and poignant moments.

Overall, Mrityudand is a gripping and thought-provoking film that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer's mind. It raises important questions about social justice and human rights, and celebrates the indomitable spirit of women who refused to be crushed by the weight of patriarchy and feudalism. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Indian cinema and society.

Mrityudand is a 1997 action movie. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.