BY AMREEN AHMAD (Student of Jamia Hamdard)
“Srikanth,” directed by Tushar Hiranandani, stands out as a remarkable addition to the biopic genre, presenting the inspiring story of visually-impaired industrialist Srikanth Bolla. The film, led by Rajkummar Rao’s nuanced performance, navigates the protagonist’s journey from a small village in Machilipatnam to the esteemed halls of MIT, and eventually to establishing an innovative corporate unit in India. It was announced in 2022 and came into release on 10 May, 2024.
Performances and Direction:
Rajkummar Rao’s portrayal of Srikanth is the heart of the film. Despite the challenging task of convincingly playing both a teenager and a young adult, Rao’s performance is compelling and sincere. He effectively conveys the internal and external battles Srikanth faces, from societal prejudices to personal insecurities. His portrayal of Srikanth’s growth—balancing vulnerability with strength—anchors the narrative. Jyothika, as Srikanth’s supportive teacher Devika, delivers a powerful performance that adds depth to the story. Hiranandani, known for his work in “Saand Ki Aankh” and “Scam 2003,” brings a deft touch to “Srikanth,” avoiding the pitfalls of melodrama. His direction ensures that the storytelling remains straightforward and focused, without overshadowing the narrative’s essence. The cinematography by Pratham Mehta and the editing by Debasmita Mitra and Sanjay Sankla complement the film’s tone, enhancing the story without distracting from it.
Story and Screenplay:
The screenplay by Jagdeep Siddhu and Sumit Purohit is a highlight, steering clear of excessive sentimentality. The film does an excellent job of depicting Srikanth’s life, including his struggles against a myopic education system and societal discrimination. The pivotal courtroom scenes, where Srikanth fights for his right to education, are particularly impactful, showcasing the film’s ability to maintain a moderate tone while making a strong case for equal opportunities.
The narrative’s only slight misstep is the somewhat exaggerated opening sequence. However, this is quickly overshadowed by the film’s compelling portrayal of Srikanth’s journey. The film effectively balances moments of personal triumph with instances of introspection, where Srikanth’s self-confidence verges on arrogance and success breeds insouciance. These moments add a layer of complexity to his character, making his achievements feel all the more genuine.
Themes and Messages:
“Srikanth” is more than just a biopic; it’s a commentary on resilience and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. The film highlights the systemic challenges faced by differently-abled individuals in India, contrasting it with the opportunities available in the West. It also delves into the personal dimensions of Srikanth’s life, including his relationship with his girlfriend Swathi (played by Alaya F) and the influence of figures like A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
Conclusion:
In “Srikanth,” Tushar Hiranandani has crafted a film that is both inspiring and thought-provoking. It avoids the clichés of the genre, instead presenting a grounded and realistic portrayal of its protagonist’s life. Rajkummar Rao’s performance, supported by a strong cast including Jyothika and Alaya F, ensures that the film resonates on an emotional level without resorting to overt melodrama. It is a film that leaves a lasting impression, encouraging viewers to reflect on the themes of human dignity, resilience, and the importance of equal opportunities for all. It is a radically optimistic and feel-good biopic that challenges preconceived notions about differently-abled individuals and their potential to achieve greatness.
