In the Marathi film industry, there is a wave of films based on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his unsung warriors. This is another addition to the list. This time it is the story of Baji Prabhu Deshpande and his sacrifice for the Maharaja’s goal of achieving Swaraj. Baji Prabhu loses his life in the Battle of Ghodkhind to help Maharaja reach Vishalgad after escaping from Panhalgad. Yes, it is a similar concept that Pawankhind was based on, but this film explores the more unknown aspects of Bajiprabhu’s life.
Har Har Mahadev Movie Review: Screenplay Analysis
The basic story of Baji Prabhu Deshpande’s courage and sacrifice is familiar to many. TV shows and Digpal Lanjekar’s Pawankhind have shown this in an effective way but still this movie holds its own. Apart from the larger-than-life narrative, this Abhijeet Deshpande directorial deals with the human side of Baji Prabhu.
Apart from the story of a great warrior, the film shows that Baji (played by Sharad Kelkar) is vulnerable. We see him facing betrayal by his own brother, dying to win back his son’s respect and desperately waiting to prove his ‘imaan’ for Swarajya. It explores such unknown things about one of the greatest warriors that deserve a chance to learn about them. The movie template is tried and true, but it still keeps you engaged with its fresh approach.
The first half is great and very engaging. After the Har Har Mahadev interval, it slows down a bit due to the lack of exciting things happening. Fortunately, it will return to normal in time. The emotional moments especially between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Subodh Bhave) and Baji Prabhu Deshpande are a treat along with a strong climax.
Har Har Mahadev: Star Performance Movie Review
Sharad Kelkar gives his best ever performance as Baji Prabhu Deshpande. We have seen Sharad as a macho man but the actor shows his range with this one. Be it emotions or action scenes, the actor gave 100%. Let’s hope she gets more such powerful roles in the future.
Subodh Bhave is a master class actor and has already proved his worth through a number of roles. As Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he brings his own distinct version that successfully shows the vulnerable side of the warrior king.
Apart from the lead duo, Milind Shinde shines by adding his own wit as Siddi Johar. The rest of the actors do their job well.
Har Har Mahadev Movie Review: Direction, Music
It’s more than a typical period drama with lots of action and goosebumps. It works more because of the human emotions of the larger-than-life characters, which Abhijeet Deshpande has done really well. There are moments that may seem clichéd, but you don’t mind too much.
All the songs support the film well along with the strong BGM but it is the song ‘Baji Ra’ that keeps playing in your head even after leaving the theater.
Har Har Mahadev: The Last Word Movie Review
All said and done, Har Har Mahadev is driven by a story that has already been told but still deserves to be watched on the big screen for its emotional processing. It’s more than a war drama!
