Astitva (2000): A Bold And Powerful Film About A Woman's Identity

Astitva (2000): A Bold and Powerful Film About a Woman's Identity

Astitva (2000) is a Hindi film directed by Mahesh Manjrekar and starring Tabu, Sachin Khedekar and Mohnish Bahl. The film explores the theme of a woman's identity and dignity in a patriarchal society. The film won critical acclaim and several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Marathi.

Astitva (2000): A Bold and Powerful Film About a Woman's Identity

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The film revolves around Aditi (Tabu), a married woman who lives a comfortable but unhappy life with her husband Shrikant (Khedekar) and son Aniket (Bahl). Shrikant is a successful businessman who neglects his wife and treats her as a trophy. Aditi feels lonely and unfulfilled, but does not voice her discontent. One day, she receives a letter from her former music teacher Malhar Kamat (Smita Jaykar), who informs her that he is dying and has left his property to her. Aditi is shocked and confused, as she does not remember having any relationship with Malhar. She decides to visit him and find out the truth.

At Malhar's house, she learns that he was in love with her and they had a brief affair when Shrikant was away on a business trip. Aditi had forgotten about it, as she was under the influence of alcohol at that time. Malhar reveals that Aniket is his biological son, and he wanted to give him his inheritance. Aditi is devastated and returns home with the letter.

Shrikant finds out about the letter and confronts Aditi. He accuses her of being unfaithful and questions her character. He also doubts Aniket's paternity and disowns him. Aditi tries to explain that it was a mistake and she loves him, but he does not listen. He humiliates her in front of their friends and family, and files for divorce.

Aditi decides to fight for her rights and dignity. She hires a lawyer (Sunil Barve) and challenges Shrikant in court. She argues that she was not aware of her affair with Malhar, and that it does not change her love for Shrikant or Aniket. She also questions Shrikant's double standards, as he had several extramarital affairs himself. She asks him why he expects loyalty from her when he does not give it to her.

The film ends with Aditi winning the case and getting custody of Aniket. She also gets Malhar's property, which she donates to an orphanage. She tells Shrikant that she does not hate him, but she does not need him anymore. She says that she has found her identity and self-respect, which are more important than anything else.

Astitva is a bold film with adultery as its central theme. It challenges the conventional norms of marriage and society, and exposes the hypocrisy and double standards of men who expect loyalty from women but do not give it to them. The film also raises questions about the meaning of identity and existence for a woman who is defined by her roles as a wife and a mother.

The film received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, who praised its daring and honest portrayal of a sensitive issue. The film also won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Marathi, the Screen Award for Best Actress (Tabu), the Zee Cine Award for Best Actress (Tabu), and the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress (Tabu).

Astitva is a film that deserves to be watched by anyone who appreciates good cinema and social commentary. It is a film that will make you think and feel, and will stay with you long after it ends. 04f6b60f66