Watch Santaan

Santaan is a Hindi family drama film released in 1993 that revolves around the theme of infertility and adoption. The movie stars Jeetendra, Moushumi Chatterjee, and Deepak Tijori in lead roles, while other notable actors including Neelam Kothari, Johnny Lever, and Shakti Kapoor also make memorable appearances. The film's story follows a couple, Vijay (Jeetendra) and Rekha (Moushumi Chatterjee), who are unable to conceive a child, despite several years of trying. This puts a significant strain on their marriage, and they are relentlessly judged and taunted by society for not being able to have a child. In an effort to overcome their infertility, Vijay decides to take a second wife, and marries a much younger woman named Madhu (Neelam Kothari) without Rekha's knowledge.

While Vijay and Madhu are happy with their newborn child, Rekha is devastated and depressed. She decides to fight back and decides to adopt a child to fill the emotional void in her life. She enlists the help of her brother-in-law, Raj (Deepak Tijori), a struggling actor who is deeply in love with Madhu's younger sister and dedicates himself to help Rekha find a child to adopt.

However, adoption proves to be a difficult process, as the couple faces several obstacles and social stigma associated with adoption in India. Eventually, they do find an orphaned baby girl they fall in love with and decide to take her home, much to Vijay's shock and anger.

The movie deals with several themes like infertility, adoption, the stigma associated with childlessness, and the belief in traditional family values versus the desire to fulfill one's dreams. It also touches upon the topic of misogyny and patriarchy prevalent in Indian society, where women are often blamed for their infertility and punished by society for not being able to give birth.

Jeetendra delivers a powerful performance as Vijay, who is torn between his love for his wife and his longing for a child. Moushumi Chatterjee shines as Rekha, portraying the emotional turmoil of a woman who desires nothing more than to be a mother. Neelam Kothari's portrayal of Madhu is also noteworthy, as she captures the essence of a young mother who feels neglected by her husband but loves her child dearly.

The supporting cast, including Johnny Lever and Shakti Kapoor, deliver perfect comedic timing and lend much-needed relief to the emotionally charged movie. The film's direction by Narayana Rao Dasari is commendable, and the screenplay keeps the audience engaged throughout.

The music by Anand-Milind is memorable, with songs like "Chanda Taare" and "Tumse Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai" still resonating with fans of the movie. The film's message about embracing the concept of adoption and breaking the societal stigma associated with it is still relevant even today and makes Santaan a thought-provoking and heartwarming movie that touches the audience's emotions.

In conclusion, Santaan is a must-watch for fans of family dramas, and people who enjoy films that tackle social issues that persist even today. The movie's powerful performances, touching storyline, and well-crafted direction make it a timeless classic.