Deewar
Deewar
Bollywood Classic
Released in 1975, Yash Chopra's Deewar (The Wall) became an instant phenomenon,
crystallizing Amitabh Bachchan's image as the iconic "angry young man" of Bollywood. The
film explores themes of social inequality, family conflict, and the moral complexities of defying
societal norms. This review delves into Deewar's powerful narrative, iconic performances, social
commentary, and its enduring legacy in Indian cinema.
Deewar's central conflict revolves around Vijay (Amitabh Bachchan) and Ravi (Shashi Kapoor),
two brothers separated by circumstance. Vijay, hardened by a harsh childhood marked by
poverty and injustice, becomes a powerful figure in the criminal underworld. Ravi, on the other
hand, chooses the path of righteousness and becomes a police officer. Their paths collide when
Ravi is tasked with capturing Vijay, forcing them to confront their divergent ideologies and the
fractured bond of brotherhood.
While Vijay represents rebellion, Shashi Kapoor's Ravi provides the moral counterpoint. He
portrays a man steadfast in his principles, bound by duty and loyalty to family. The tension
between the brothers creates the film's central conflict, forcing the audience to contemplate the
justification of Vijay's actions and the limitations of Ravi's idealistic approach.
Deewar doesn't offer easy answers. Vijay's descent into crime is understandable, fueled by a
desire to protect his family from the hardships they endured. Ravi's upright character is
admirable, but his inability to acknowledge the systemic issues frustrates Vijay. The film
explores moral gray areas, leaving viewers to grapple with complex choices and the
consequences of defying societal expectations.
Deewar is a scathing indictment of social inequality. It portrays the destitution faced by the
working class contrasted with the affluence of the privileged. Vijay's criminal activities become a
form of protest against a system that offers no lawful path to upward mobility. The film
resonated with audiences struggling with similar economic hardships, making them identify with
Vijay's anger and desire for justice.
Deewar's script by Salim-Javed remains legendary. The film boasts powerful dialogues that
transcended mere words and became cultural touchstones. Lines like "Mere paas maa hai" (I
have a mother) delivered by Shashi Kapoor, represented unwavering devotion to family. Vijay's
retort, "Tere ideals, tere usool, kis kaam ke hai Ravi? (What good are your ideals, your
principles?)" challenged the efficacy of morality in the face of poverty and injustice.
The soundtrack by R.D. Burman perfectly complements the film's narrative. Songs like "Rim
Jhim Ke" and "Maine Tere Liye" add layers of melancholy and romance. The powerful "Khaike
Paan Banarasi" underscores Vijay's tough exterior, while the patriotic "Sahib Banega" speaks to
his yearning for acceptance and respect.