Watch Waaris

Waaris is a Bollywood film in the social drama genre, released in 1988. The movie is directed by Ravindra Peepat and produced by Tahir Hussain. The film stars some of the famed and talented actors of the era, such as Smita Patil, Amrita Singh, and Raj Babbar. Waaris revolves around the topic of female oppression, which is still prevalent in various parts of the Indian society today. The plot centers on a family in a rustic Haryana village. The film's main protagonist is a young girl named Durga, played by Smita Patil. She is the only woman in the family and has to struggle with the prevalent patriarchal dominance.

Being the only daughter among five brothers, Durga is often looked down upon and mistreated, reflecting the attitudes and sentiments of a society that believes in male superiority. However, Durga is a strong-willed and determined girl who challenges the status quo and fights for her rights. Her portrayal in the film is a representation of the countless women in Indian society who have stood up for themselves despite societal deviancies.

Amrita Singh plays the role of Kajal, Durga's cousin, who lives in the city and is modern, independent and free-spirited. She represents a norm that Indian society tries to suppress, which rejects the conventional subservient role assigned to women. Kajal is portrayed as someone who challenges the stereotypes and norms set by society and supports Durga in her journey to find freedom.

The movie also focuses on the issue of property inheritance, which is another area where women face discrimination in traditional Indian families. In the movie, we see that only male members of the family have access to the inheritance. Durga's father, Bhupi (Raj Babbar), denies her rights to the ancestral property since she is a woman. This discrimination is a prominent issue in Indian families, particularly in rural areas, where women are considered an economic burden and denied inheritance rights despite legal sanctions to the contrary.

Waaris showcases the struggles that women face, including physical and emotional abuse, gender discrimination, and social stigmas. Despite the dismal treatment from her family, Durga refuses to be a victim, and along with her cousin, Kajal, she stands up to fight for herself.

The film highlights the importance of education and empowerment for women to combat gender discrimination. However, it also underlines the need for a change in society's outlook and behavior towards women, which is essential for equal rights and opportunities for all.

Waaris is a timeless classic that portrays the grim struggles of women in a superb manner. The movie packs a powerful message for the audience, encouraging them to stand up against societal oppression and gender discrimination. The iconic actors' performances are excellent, and the film is sure to leave the audiences moved and introspective about the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

In conclusion, Waaris is a thought-provoking and emotional movie that is still relevant today, thirty-three years after its release. It's an excellent watch for those interested in socially driven movies, reflection, and human stories of struggle and overcoming oppression.