Subhash Ghai’s 30-minute short film, Gandhi: A Perspective, offers a poignant exploration of Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring relevance in contemporary society. Premiering at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 2024 and later streamed on Doordarshan’s Waves OTT platform, the film marks Ghai’s debut in the short film format. Starring Manoj Bajpayee, the docu-drama aims to bridge generational gaps in understanding Gandhi’s philosophy, though it occasionally struggles to balance its ambitious scope within its concise runtime.

Plot and Themes

The film centers on a narrative sparked by a real-life conversation Ghai had with an 18-year-old student at Whistling Woods International, who expressed skepticism about celebrating Gandhi Jayanti. This interaction inspired Ghai to craft a story that examines differing perspectives on Gandhi’s legacy, particularly among younger generations who may harbor misconceptions about his ideals. The plot revolves around a father (played by Bajpayee) engaging in a dialogue with his teenage son, who questions Gandhi’s actions—such as his stance on India’s partition, his silence on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, and his inability to prevent Bhagat Singh’s execution. Through this intergenerational exchange, the film seeks to address these doubts with clarity and nuance, emphasizing Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence and truth.

Ghai’s approach is refreshingly unembellished, avoiding the “masala” of commercial cinema to focus on a research-driven narrative. The inclusion of archival footage adds authenticity, grounding the story in historical context while making it accessible to modern audiences. The film’s core strength lies in its attempt to present Gandhi not as a distant icon but as a figure whose ideas remain vital in a world grappling with conflict.

Performances

Manoj Bajpayee anchors the film with his signature intensity and subtlety. Known for his ability to embody complex characters, Bajpayee brings depth to the role of a father striving to convey Gandhi’s relevance to a skeptical younger generation. His performance is understated yet powerful, capturing the emotional weight of a parent navigating ideological differences with his child. Bajpayee’s commitment to the project is evident, especially considering he reportedly worked without remuneration, driven by a desire to educate youth about Gandhi’s legacy.

The supporting cast, though less prominent, complements Bajpayee effectively, particularly in scenes depicting the son’s initial resistance. The dynamic between the characters feels authentic, reflecting real-world generational divides.

Direction and Craftsmanship

Subhash Ghai, often celebrated as Bollywood’s “showman” for his grand feature films like Karz and Taal, demonstrates restraint in Gandhi. His direction is introspective, prioritizing dialogue and ideas over cinematic flair. The use of archival footage is a standout, seamlessly woven into the narrative to enhance its historical weight. However, the 30-minute runtime occasionally feels restrictive, limiting the depth of exploration for some of the complex questions raised. Certain topics, like Gandhi’s role in the partition, are addressed but could benefit from more nuanced discussion, which the short format doesn’t fully accommodate.

The cinematography is functional, focusing on intimate settings that underscore the conversational tone. The editing is crisp, ensuring the film maintains a steady pace, though some transitions between archival and fictional elements feel abrupt. The sound design is minimalistic, allowing the dialogue and archival clips to take center stage, which aligns with the film’s educational intent.

Impact and Reception

Gandhi: A Perspective has been praised for its sincerity and relevance. Filmmakers like Raju Hirani called it “informative, emotional, engaging, and a brilliant film every child should see,” while Ketan Mehta noted its ability to introduce Gandhi in a contemporary context. The film’s premiere at IFFI 2024 garnered applause, and its streaming release on Waves OTT by DD has made it accessible to a wider audience, amplifying its impact.

However, the film’s brevity can feel like a double-edged sword. While it succeeds in sparking conversation, it sometimes skims the surface of deeper historical complexities, potentially leaving viewers wanting more. The focus on a single father-son dynamic, while relatable, may not fully capture the broader societal perspectives on Gandhi.

Final Verdict

Gandhi: A Perspective is a commendable effort by Subhash Ghai to reintroduce Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals to a new generation. Manoj Bajpayee’s heartfelt performance and Ghai’s research-driven storytelling make it a meaningful watch, particularly for younger audiences unfamiliar with Gandhi’s philosophy. While the short format limits its depth, the film’s sincerity, coupled with its use of archival footage, makes it a compelling and accessible exploration of a timeless figure. It’s not a definitive portrait of Gandhi but a conversation starter—one that encourages viewers to reflect on his legacy in today’s world.

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

Recommendation: A must-watch for students, educators, and those interested in a concise, modern take on Gandhi’s enduring relevance.