Abhimaan | The AB-Jaya Story | The Critique

When Amitabh Bachchan married Jaya Bhaduri in early seventies, it was a big news. While the bride was an established actress having the respect of both classes and the groom was a struggling actor who impressed the critics but his movies were not working. In 1973, a movie came that gave a déjà vu feel to this scenario. Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Abhimaan starring the very two actors- Amitabh and Jaya. However despite of similarities, this story was not based on AB-Jaya story and Jaya’s decision to stay away from cinema ensured that anything of this sort won’t affect their matrimony. This story was loosely based on the life of Kishore Kumar and his wife Ruma Ghosh and took little cues from many other estranged couples of Industry.

Subeer is a singer who is scaling new heights in his career. Marriage is not on cards however, this changes when he meets Uma. Uma is a beautiful girl with golden vocals. Subeer falls in love with her and both marry. Uma also starts singing professionally and her career starts blooming. Unfortunately, Subeer falls prey to destiny’s spell. His career sees a downfall and just like another man, his ego is not able to adjust to his falling popularity while his wife is getting all the appreciations.

This movie boasts of some of the best works in music by S.D. Burman. Songs by Kishore, Rafi and Lata on lyrics of Majrooh Sultanpuri ruled the charts for some time.  Remember ‘Tere Mere Milan Ki Yeh Raina’ and ‘Teri Bindiya Re’? Camerawork was commendable. Subtlety is a difficult thing afterall. Sensibility and sanctity of story was maintained beautifully.  Handling a difficult subject with such objectivity and controlling actors and their personal chemistry is a tough nut to crack Hrishi Da did exactly what was expected…

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh