Andaz

Andaz, released in 1971, is a Bollywood romantic drama film directed by Ramesh Sippy. The film stars Shammi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna, and Hema Malini in prominent roles.

The film opens with Rajoo (Rajesh Khanna), a writer, meeting Neeta (Hema Malini) on the train. They develop an instant connection and decide to meet again. However, Neeta is already engaged to Ravi (Shammi Kapoor), who is a successful businessman.

After a series of unexpected events, Neeta finds herself in a difficult situation and seeks Rajoo's help. He stands by her side and helps her out of the mess. In the meantime, Neeta and Rajoo's friendship deepens, and Ravi begins to feel neglected.

As the story progresses, the love triangle becomes more complicated, and tensions rise. Will Neeta choose Ravi, the man she is engaged to, or Rajoo, the man who has stood by her in her time of need?

Andaz is one of the most talked-about Bollywood films of the 70s. It marks a significant shift in the portrayal of female characters in Hindi cinema, with Hema Malini playing a much more assertive and independent role than was typical at that time. The film also has a strong focus on friendship, as shown by the bond between Neeta and Rajoo.

The film's music, composed by Shankar-Jaikishan, is another standout feature of the movie. The songs are still popular today, and some of them have become classics. The song "Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana" is particularly memorable and has been sung by many different artists over the years.

Rajesh Khanna's performance in the film is widely regarded as one of his best. He brings a certain charm and nuance to his character that he became known for during this period. Hema Malini also delivers a standout performance, portraying a strong and independent woman who knows her own mind.

Shammi Kapoor, who had previously been known for his lively and energetic roles, puts in a more subdued performance in Andaz. He plays his character with a quiet dignity that is both compelling and effective.

Overall, Andaz is a well-crafted film that still has relevance today. Its strong focus on female empowerment and the complexities of romantic relationships make it a timeless classic. The great performances by its lead actors, coupled with a standout soundtrack, make it a must-watch for any fan of Hindi cinema.