Watch Salaam Bombay!

Salaam Bombay! is a 1988 Indian drama film directed by Mira Nair. The movie tells the story of a young boy named Krishna who lives in the slums of Bombay. He dreams of escaping his poverty-stricken life and reuniting with his mother, who he believes is in a faraway village. Krishna's life takes a dramatic turn when his older brother steals the only money he has, which was meant to pay for his train ticket. Forced to stay in Bombay, he ends up working for a cruel and exploitative boss, who uses him as an errand boy and a drug dealer. Krishna's experiences in the city expose him to a darker side of life, as he witnesses the prostitution, drug use, and gang violence that are rampant in the slums.

The movie is a heart-wrenching portrayal of life in the slums of Bombay. It captures the daily struggles of the impoverished residents, who are often forced into desperate situations just to survive. The film also examines the role of class and caste in Indian society and the cycle of poverty that often perpetuates itself through generations.

Krishna's character is played by Shafiq Syed, a non-professional actor who was only twelve years old at the time of filming. His performance is remarkable, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of a child thrown into a harsh and uncaring world. The movie features an ensemble cast, including Anjaan and Amrit Patel.

Salaam Bombay! is notable for its realistic portrayal of life in the slums, achieved through its use of non-professional actors and its location shooting in the slums of Bombay. The film was critically acclaimed and won the Caméra d'Or (Best First Feature Film) and the Audience Award at the 1988 Cannes Film Festival, and was later nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Overall, Salaam Bombay! is a powerful and affecting drama that sheds light on the struggles faced by the poor and marginalized in Indian society. It is a testament to the resilience and humanity of its characters, who despite their struggles, show courage, kindness, and hope for a better future. The movie remains a landmark in Indian cinema and is a must-see for anyone interested in the social issues facing the country today.