We have seen plenty of films dealing with the issue of rape. Generally these films are all about punishing the culprits. But what happens to the victim? Is punishing the culprits the end of her ordeal? How will she move on with life? Or will she ever?
This is what is explored in cinematographer-turned-director Sanjay Memane’s Marathi movie Mann Udhan Wara (2019). The film is about a young girl (Monaj Gajjar), staying in the picturesque Konkan region, who is raped one fateful night. Obviously, it is almost impossible for her to come out of the trauma and move on in life despite repeated attempts from her father (Kishore Kadam).
This is when a young man (Rutwij Vaidya) enters her life and is attracted to her. However, she considers herself unworthy of his love because of her past. The man and her father try convincing her to give life another chance.
The almost unexplored area of moving on of a rape victim makes Man Udhan Vara stand apart from other films dealing with rape. The trailer, which is smartly cut, gives a feeling that the sensitive issue is sensibly handled by Mamane. He has been a cinematographer and this is his first film as a director.
The screenplay and dialogues are handled by the acclaimed filmmaker duo Sumitra Bhave and Sunil Sukthankar. The film is the official remake of the Khasi film Onaatah: Of The Earth (2016) which was written and directed by Pradil Kurbah. It had won the National Award for Best Khasi Film.
Mann Udhan Wara will be releasing on 11 October. Watch the trailer below and let us know if you are keen to watch the film.