Dance of the Wind

Dance of the Wind is a highly emotive, culture-rich movie released in 1997, directed by Rajan Khosa, and featuring talented stars like Ami Arora, Roshan Bano, and Kitu Gidwani among others. Central to its plot is an exploration of the authentic Indian tradition of classical music, as well as the subtle yet profound exploration of the dynamics of human relationships, especially between mother and daughter.

Kitu Gidwani delivers an unforgettable performance as Pallavi, a highly talented and skilled Hindustani classical singer residing in Delhi. Pallavi's life takes a dramatic turn following the sudden demise of her mother, a renowned Indian classical singer. This causes her to lose her divine voice, a voice that had earned her praise and admiration in the classical music circles. She finds herself unable to sing as she’s struck by this profound psychological and emotional trauma.

In their painstaking articulation of the mother-daughter relationship, the filmmakers succeed in capturing the deep, primal bond shared by the two. Parallels are drawn between the matriarch's musical journey, her mentoring of Pallavi and the impact of her untimely death on her daughter's musical career, and life overall. The film not only mirrors the world of classical Indian music, but also the complexities of societal pressure and expectations.

Marking her cinematic debut, Roshan Bano portrays Tara, an innocent village girl with a distinct and melodious voice. Tara's role in the film brings a novel contrast and fresh perspective to the storyline. She serves as an essential element, drawing Pallavi out of her tragedy. Tara is from a rural, impoverished background and hasn't had the luxury of formal training in music. However, she carries the rich heritage and grassroots level knowledge of folk music of Rajasthan.

Ami Arora, on the other hand, incarnates the character of a young and curious boy who is unknowingly Pallavi's biggest support in her journey back to herself. Through their interactions, we get a glimpse into the diverse aspects of Indian classical music, revealing its centuries-old customs, traditions, and conventions.

The title, Dance of the Wind, is a metaphor that can be interpreted in multiple ways. There is a distinct focus on the transformational power of music and how it ebbs and flows, much like the wind. Symbolizing freedom, the power of music to heal, touch lives, and bridge gaps between people serves as the backbone of the movie.

What’s impressive about Dance of the Wind, is its authentic portrayal of Indian traditions and values. It takes you on a journey through the enchanting world of Indian classical music, while simultaneously exploring lifelong learning, generational talents, mentorship, and the complex web of human emotions.

Music, as evident, takes the center stage in this film. The sound design and score, brought to life by notable Indian musician Shubha Mudgal among others, is captivating. It brings a rhythm and life to the plot while establishing a strong emotional connection with the audience.

Additionally, the film beautifully juxtaposes the urban and rural aspects of India. The cinematic landscapes switch between the congested, bustling city of Delhi and the rural, rustic beauty of Rajasthan, providing a visual richness and depth to the storyline.

The in-depth character development, led by powerful performances from the cast, gives the film its sincere and heartfelt feel. Kitu Gidwani’s delicate and nuanced portrayal of Pallavi's struggle, Roshan Bano's unabashedly raw portrayal of Tara, together with Ami Arora's supportive role, offer different angles to the fascinating world of music and human connection.

Dance of the Wind is indeed a gratifying watch for those keen on a slower-paced, deeply introspective film that is not only a cinematic portrayal of a story but also a tribute to the power of music, tradition, and human resilience. The intriguing narrative, powerful performances, authentic settings, and enchanting music guarantees to captivate, resonate and linger in the minds of the viewers long after the credits roll.