Bakrid

Bakrid is a 2019 Indian Tamil language drama film that elegantly binds emotive, social, and cultural fabrics. The movie is directed by Jagadeesan Subu and produced by M.S Murugaraj Mallaika. The cast includes Vikranth, Vasundhara Kashyap, and Rohit Pathak, whose performances contribute to the movie's emotional depth and popularity.

At the heart of Bakrid is a story centered on human-animal bond, compassion, sacrifice, and the shared experiences that intersect different cultures and people. The quintessence of the story revolves around Vikranth's character, an every-man who faces a series of complex situations that test his resilience, character, and commitment to holding onto his principles even in the face of adversity.

Vikranth portrays a villager who lives a simple, contented life with his wife (Vasundhara Kashyap) and daughter. Their harmonious life takes a sudden twist when he buys a camel calf during his visit to a cattle fair. He brings the calf home and nurtures it as a member of his family. The camel, fondly named "Sara" becomes part of their everyday life, forging an unspoken bond with the family, witnessed through Vikranth's interactions with the animal.

The film's title, "Bakrid," draws from the Islamic festival of Eid-al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of the Sacrifice", alluding to the symbolic significance of the camel in the narrative. However, the film is not just about the festival. It expands on the narrative, incorporating the themes of responsibility, sacrifice, survival, and love within a framework of compassionate humanity.

Issues arise when Vikranth finds himself faced with the necessity of feeding his growing camel, which outgrows its surroundings. A series of events forces him into the heart of the desert, searching for proper care for Sara, his camel. This unexpected journey takes him out of his comfort zone and confronts him with arduous circumstances.

Vasundhara Kashyap, as Vikranth's wife, adds another layer of emotional depth to the film. She's a beacon of support and understanding for her husband, even as they encounter one obstacle after another. The relationship between them, their daughter, and the camel form an engaging narrative arc. Rohit Pathak, on the other hand, plays a crucial role at a critical turning point in the storyline, contributing to the film's unique flavor.

What sets Bakrid apart is its representation of the bond between a man and his pet. The film skillfully portrays this relationship against the backdrop of an arid landscape, the city's hustle and bustle, and suburban domestic life without falling into typical clichés. Combined with an evocative musical score by D. Imman, which perfectly complements the movie's emotional quotient, Bakrid takes the viewers on a deeply moving and picturesque journey through deserts and bustling locales.

The director, Jagadeesan Subu, uses elements of culture, tradition, and social issues delicaciously and does not heavy-handedly lean into them. His cinematography also skillfully captures the raw beauty of the barren desert and the bustling city, thereby contrasting Vikranth's rural background with his urban journey.

Bakrid is also unique for being the Indian film industry's first movie featuring a camel in a prominent role. The cinematographer has beautifully captured the magnificence of the camel in her natural surroundings, enabling viewers to appreciate the creature in its full glory.

In summary, Bakrid is an emotional journey of sacrifice, perseverance, compassion, and a poignant exploration of the bond between humans and animals. The performances by Vikranth and Vasundhara Kashyap, the movie’s earthy feel, the picturesque cinematography, and a narrative indebted to human-animal relationships make it a must-watch film. While it isn’t afraid to explore heavy themes of cultural relevance, it also offers a heartwarming story. This balance strikes a chord and makes Bakrid a path-breaking movie that manages to depict a tale of love, endurance, and sacrifice in an engaging way, while also offering valuable lessons about life.