An epic retelling of an interesting chapter from Maratha history
The movie, which was delayed owing to the pandemic, is dependent on a single of the most well-known incidents from Maratha record – the Struggle of Pavan Khind. At the outset, the makers make it apparent that this is not a finish documentation of the struggle, its prelude or aftermath, but a cinematic recreation meant to showcase the bravery of the Marathas included in this battle. So, there are cinematic liberties taken in this retelling, but the crux of the tale is taken care of.
The story about the Fight of Pavan Khind (previously known as Ghod Khind) and the bravery exhibited by Bajiprabhu Deshpande and the Bandal army of 600 versus the Siddhi Masud and the troopers of the Adilshahi Sultanate is well recognised throughout Maharashtra. The result – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s profitable escape from Panhalgad to Vishalgad. But, does Lanjekar thrive in recreating this essential chapter from Marathi background on screen? Definitely!
Pawankhind is a thorough cinematic expertise that is match for the huge monitor. The film is formidable in seeking to check out this story in two and a 50 % hrs, but it mostly succeeds in making the appropriate make up and atmosphere that prospects to a superb climax. From laying out the purpose and the figures included in it, to the siege of Panhala by Siddhi Jauhar, the escape program and the genuine battle, Pawankhind lays out all its cards in front you chronologically, while inducing a dose of background, drama and even comedian relief in among. The film does not pass up out on providing because of credit to the the greater part of the generals who helped Shivaji Maharaj realise his aspiration of Swarajya.
As for the actors, it’s not an simple task to carry some of the most properly –known names from the Marathi film and Tv market together in a multi-starrer of this scale. But the casting office and makers pull off this feat. Chinmay Mandlekar as Shivaji Maharaj, Ajay Purkar as Bajiprabhu Deshpande, Sameer Dharmadhikari as Siddhi Jauhar, Aastad Kale as Siddhi Masud, Ankit Mohan as Rayaji Bandal, Mrinal Kulkarni as Maasaheb Jijau, Akshay Waghmare as Koyaji Bandal each and every actor has provided his very best to their roles. Even the supporting cast has some unforgettable performances from Kshitee Jog as Badi Begum, Harish Dudhade as Bahirji Naik, Shivraj Waichal as Harpya, Rishi Saxena as Rustam Zaman. Yet another notable performance that stands out is that of Ajinkya Nanaware as Shiva Kashid, the gentleman who resembled Shivaji Maharaj and sacrificed himself for his king. The scenes involving Ajinkya and Chinmay are sure to deliver tears to your eyes.
Whilst Pawankhind excels in storytelling, the technical elements, though excellent, could have been much better. The history rating overpowers dialogues in some important scenes, and the action choreography in some scenes fails to make the slash. On the other hand, all mentioned and finished, the full team has accomplished its greatest to make this a big display expertise. It’s possible with a more substantial budget, these things can be ironed out in the following movies of Lanjekar’s series.
For now, Pawankhind is a great watch, and at the cinemas only.