Main Atal Hoon Review

Main Hoon Atal - A Poetic Ode to a Political Icon

Director: Ravi Jadhav

Cast: Pankaj Tripathi, Piyush Mishra and Raja Sewak

Rating – 3

Duration: 137 minutes

"Main Hoon Atal" takes a biographical dive into the life and political career of the late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, portrayed convincingly by Pankaj Tripathi. Directed by Ravi Jadhav, the film aims to provide a glimpse into Vajpayee's multifaceted persona as a poet, gentleman, and statesman.

The timing of the film's release, coinciding with the Pran Pratishtha ceremony for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and with general elections on the horizon, adds a layer of relevance to the narrative. However, the film primarily focuses on Vajpayee's personal achievements and character, often neglecting his political ideology and the historical events he was associated with.

Tripathi's portrayal of Vajpayee is a standout, avoiding caricature and presenting a nuanced performance that captures the essence of the beloved leader. The supporting cast, including Piyush Mishra and Raja Sewak, contributes effectively, though they remain in the periphery.

The film successfully incorporates Vajpayee's poetry, providing a poignant backdrop to key moments. The decision to emphasize Vajpayee's inner struggles and familial relationships adds depth to the character but leaves some political aspects unexplored.

As a character sketch, "Main Hoon Atal" succeeds in portraying Vajpayee as a figure of kindness, integrity, and commitment to the country. The film, however, falls short in providing a comprehensive exploration of the complexities within Vajpayee's political career and ideology.

The cinematography by Lawrence D'Cunha and the music, including contributions from Payal Dev, Kailash Kher, Amitraj, and Salim-Sulaiman, elevate the film's emotional impact. The background score by Monty Sharma effectively complements the narrative.

Despite its merits, the film leans towards eulogizing Vajpayee without offering a critical examination of his legacy. The script could have benefited from a more balanced approach, delving deeper into Vajpayee's political choices and the challenges he faced.

In conclusion, "Main Hoon Atal" serves as a heartfelt tribute to one of India's beloved leaders, emphasizing his personal struggles and virtues. While Pankaj Tripathi's stellar performance carries the film, the narrative lacks the political depth needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's impact on Indian politics.