Dor : Review

I watched 'Dor' by Nagesh Kuknoor today. It is the story of two women; Zeenat (Gul Panag) and Meera (Ayesha Takia) who are joined by the cord or 'dor' of fate.

Zeenat's character is strong and confident; like the blade of grass, that no wind can uproot. Meera on the other hand, is bound by the society's mores and restrictions, who sees her freedom in her husband. Even their lands reflect their lives. Zeenat comes from green Himachal Pradesh and Meera from, scorching and bare Rajasthan.

Dor is the story of this relationship that develops between Meera and Zeenat.

Zeenat teaches Meera to listen to her heart. She gives back the gift of life to Meera, whose dreams and aspirations die with her husband. Most importantly, Meera learns forgiveness and in that process, frees herself from shackles of her grief that her society forces on her.

Behroopiya (Shreyas Talpade) is a conman who helps Zeenat in her journey and admires her. His acting is also noteworthy.

The movie is so beautiful in some parts, that I cried for its beauty. Because I don't think I have ever seen something so beautiful on screen. In those moments, when Zeenat doesn't let herself be broken and sets out an almost unthinkable journey, when Meera leaps from the stairs of the temple....

Nagesh Kuknoor is a brilliant film maker. Gul Panag essays her role with strength and panache. Ayesha Takia is wonderful as the timid and sad Meera. The cinematography is also very good. The whole movie is like a jigsaw puzzle, without any one aspect, the movie would be incomplete.

Must watch for anyone who loves good and meaningful cinema.