Aamhi Jarange

Last month, a biopic on Manoj Jarange Patil, the man whose name has become synonymous with the Maratha Kranti Morcha, released. About three weeks later, another biopic on the same person has hit cinemas. Aamhi Jarange, directed by Yogesh Bhosale, goes back to the origin of the movement, with contributions of Annasaheb Patil and Annasaheb Javale, among others, forming the base of the story. However, the film takes its time to reach its focal point – Manoj Jarange Patil – and then becomes a retelling of the instances that led to his rise.

Jarange isn’t a physically towering personality, but his steadfast belief in the need for reservation for Marathas and his charisma has led to lakhs of people from the community joining him. So, it’s no surprise that more than one biopic has been made on him. However, as is the case with most biopics, this one is a glorified retelling that paints its protagonist as a larger-than-life hero. In the process, the focus shifts from his work to the theatrics and drama – essentials of filmmaking but out of place in a biopic like this one.

Opinions on the movement may differ, but this is a story that deserves to be told. There’s potential for a big screen spectacle as well. But Aamhi Jarange ends up being a wasted opportunity, majorly because it oscillates between touch-and-go and over-dramatisation. Scenes that should have been explored a little more in-depth, aren’t, while passing and repetitive shots of Jarange meeting people and delivering speeches are focused on more.

Actors like Subodh Bhave, Prasad Oak and Ajay Purkar have cameos and they do full justice to those. Makarand Deshpande, who plays Jarange for most part of the film, looks the part completely. Kudos to the team that designed and executed his look. The same can’t be said about Deshpande’s performance though. Deshpande is an established actor and there’s no technical issue with his acting. But he doesn’t live Jarange’s role on screen. You can see Deshpande in the mannersims and dialogue delivery, not Jarange. In comparison, the actor who plays the younger version of Jarange is promising. His portrayal is raw and has just what this role demands. When Deshpande takes over from him, you can spot the imbalance in both portrayals.

Long story short, Aamhi Jarange is a decent attempt overall. But it doesn’t hold your attention throughout the 2.24 hour running time.