Naseem

Naseem, directed by acclaimed Indian filmmaker Saeed Akhtar Mirza, is a poignant and thought-provoking movie released in 1995. The film boasts a blend of brilliant performances by some notable actors like Kaifi Azmi, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, and Surekha Sikri, that collectively form the heart and soul of this movie.

Set in the 1990s, Naseem, the eponymous character, forms the core of the film. She represents the bright and innocent youth, seemingly untouched by the external realities of the time. As the narrative unfolds, it provides an intimately personal perspective of India's socio-political climate and the growing religious tension that looms over the country during the period leading up to the demolition of the Babri Masjid in December 1992. The story is set against the backdrop of Mumbai, which beautifully captures the city's diverse culture, bustling streets, and teeming humanity.

Central to the narrative is Naseem's heartwarming relationship with her ailing grandfather, played by Kaifi Azmi. Through the heart-rending exchanges between the granddaughter and the grandfather, the audience is swept into a sense of nostalgia and intimate storytelling, reminiscent of simpler times. Azmi, an acclaimed poet, scriptwriter, and social activist himself, brings grace, charm, and a palpable depth to his character. His evocative monologues, the stories of a united India he tells Naseem, present a unique Indian viewpoint of the Partition and the shared heritage between Hindus and Muslims.

Portraying Naseem's parents are esteemed actors Kulbhushan Kharbanda and Surekha Sikri, who lend their natural and nuanced performances to the evolving storyline. Plunged into the milieu of a middle-class Muslim family in Mumbai, their characters are seen grappling their way around the growing communal tensions from the aftermath of the impending political event, while attempting to maintain a semblance of peace and security within their home.

Kharbanda, known for his powerful performances, brings an understated poignancy to his role as Naseem's father. On the other hand, Sikri, a powerhouse performer, effortlessly plays the role of a mother trying to protect her family's harmony and essence amidst the rising chaos.

Moreover, the direction by Saeed Akhtar Mirza is both sensitive and discerning. He manages to weave a touching narrative that speaks volumes about the social fabric of the time, teetering on the brink of major communal disruption. The film pulls no punches in its depiction of fear, anxiety, and the eventual sense of loss experienced by the ordinary people embroiled in the man-made disarray.

Another noteworthy element of Naseem is its cinematography. There's a sense of melancholy that stays with the visuals of the film— mirroring the central theme of the narrative. The movie's production design is gritty and realistic, embracing and delivering the sense of community life and the narrow lanes of Mumbai.

What makes Naseem compelling is its subtle storytelling that intersperses drama, emotions, and suspense. It is often through distant radio news or newspaper reading sessions that the outside world seeps into the tranquil space shared by Naseem and her grandfather, gradually shaping the narrative tension while lending an air of foreboding.

Furthermore, Naseem delves into a not-so-ancient era in Indian history, one embedded with deep-seated unrest and uncertainty. The movie makes a significant commentary on communal tensions and prejudices while never losing sight of its central theme-impact on the common people's lives.

In sum, Naseem stands out as a powerful movie that masterfully uses the medium of cinema to convey an impactful and vital message. Notwithstanding the momentous events that underpin the narrative, the film has a touching human story at its heart – a story of innocence, love, and shared histories, starkly contrasted with the turbulent times. This stark contrast is beautifully brought out through stellar performances from the ensemble cast led by Kaifi Azmi, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, and Surekha Sikri. They beautifully evoke empathy and connection, leaving the audience deeply moved, making Naseem a standout piece of Indian cinema.