Kaash

Kaash is a 1987 Indo-British venture film directed by the luminary filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, featuring the versatile Jackie Shroff, the ever-charming Dimple Kapadia, and the talented child actor Master Makrand. The film's title translating to "If Only" underlines the crux of its plot, showcasing the harsh and intense realities of life throughout.

The film revolves around the life of a once successful and influential film star, Ritesh Narayan (Jackie Shroff), who is grappling with dwindling funds and an advancing career crisis. His fading stardom, coupled with his inability to properly manage his plentiful past fortune, results in his landing face-first into the throes of financial ruin. His wife, Pooja (Dimple Kapadia), a lawyer by profession, tries to keep the family together dealing with their personal and financial crisis.

Ritesh's ego and pride bring forth a series of wrong decisions that lead him to the cusp of bankruptcy, which subsequently strains his relationship with Pooja. Their life is filled with constant disarray and bickering, where they struggle to agree on any matter, their arguments ranging from financial issues to parenting their only son, Romi (Master Makrand).

The realization of their situation is diluted by the entry of Romi, their son, who brings not just the innocence and joy of a child but also adds a different perspective to their lives. Romi's character acts as a catalyst, compelling both Ritesh and Pooja to reexamine their life choices and priorities. Throughout the film, Romi's role plays a central part in weaving the narrative together, providing an emotional touch that grips the audience to their very core.

Kaash follows the narrative of a dysfunctional family desperately trying to make ends meet while battling life's overwhelming challenges. The story subtly delineates the parental feelings of inadequacy and failure and initiates a conversation about the tremendous impact of financial stress on familial bonds.

Jackie Shroff delivers a compelling performance as Ritesh, beautifully portraying his character's despair and helplessness. Dimple Kapadia, on the other hand, nails the character of Pooja, a resilient and strong woman who, despite her predicaments, tries to keep her family intact. Master Makrand, as Romi, impressively carries out his pivotal role in the film.

With dialogues that pack a punch and a script that lays bare human fallibility with brutal honesty, Kaash does not shy away from presenting the harsh realities of life. With its carefully embedded twists and turns, the film keeps the audience at the edge of their seats from start to end. Enriched by stellar performances and a strong, thought-provoking storyline, Kaash grips the audience's attention and leaves a lingering impact.

A key highlight of the film is its music. Legendary composer duo Kalyanji-Anandji along with poet, lyricist, and screenwriter, Anand Bakshi, gave Kaash some unforgettable melodies. The songs are beautifully poignant, adding to the emotional depth of the film, each melody beautifully capturing the high and low points of the characters' lives, resonating with the audience long after the film has ended.

Produced by the renowned filmmaker Freni Variava and Bhagwanji Maru under the banner of Dynamic Films, Kaash, though a drama film, also leaves a profound social message for the audience. It keeps the viewers engrossed as it winds its way through an exploratory look at human emotions and relationships.

Kaash stands as a landmark film, as it breaks away from traditional Bollywood triplet storylines with its exact emotional representation of contracted relationships and failing finance. Mahesh Bhatt's directorial genius shines through every scene, taking the audience on a roller coaster ride of emotions - laughter, tears, frustration, despair, and hope, making Kaash a must-watch movie for film enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Kaash is an intense, emotionally charged drama that presents the stark reality of life when basked in the ruthless light of financial stress and struggling interpersonal relationships. Its raw and compelling narrative, nuanced performances by an ensemble cast, and unforgettable music score have etched this film into the hearts of the cinema-loving audience. Kaash is not a film that can be merely watched and forgotten; it's an experience that lingers on, forcing viewers to reflect on the narrative long after the curtains close.