Garm Hava is a classic gem of Indian cinema that has to be there in the top brackets of any kind of list compiled about the movies made on India’s partition. Widely considered as one the Top 10 movies made in Hindi cinema, it's among the favourites of many renowned stalwarts of the industry too, who still remember the aura it created at the time of its release in 1973.
As per my personal opinion, it is one of the two incomparable works conceived around the subject of India’s partition, with the second one being TAMAS directed by Govind Nihalani.
Based on the story of famous Urdu Writer Ismat Chugtai, Garam Hawa captures the moments of those times and its impact in just the right spirit without going into any usual blood-shed or extreme violence. And it is certainly a rare achievement of its kind, to recreate the trauma of partition through characters, their interactions and their changing relationships in the later decades, avoiding the bloody scenes of deadly riots and killings full of mutual hatred.
The film has Balraj Sahni - the most natural Indian actor playing the lead character caught in the communal tension felt after years of partition and his performance is undoubtedly among the 'Best Ever Performances of Hindi Cinema' till date. In fact why he is known as one of the most natural actors, is righty proved by this film without any slightest of doubt. Unfortunately, the veteran performer couldnt see the film post completion as he passed away just after finishing the dubbing. And reportedly the last line he recorded was "Insaan Kab Tak Akela Jee Sakta Hai" (Till how long a persona can live alone?)
Thoughtfully directed by M. S. Sathyu, the film gives you a chance to feel and witness the violent conflicts between communities, before & after the partition, as a first-hand experience, living along the characters getting affected in their own way by the hard & unexpected decision taken the key leaders. And as you see it, the shameful moments are bound to make you go numb and speechless for a few minutes, forcing you to sit back and think about the situation our ancestors had to face at that particular point of time and in the later years.
It subtly and sensitively captures the dilemma faced by the people about whether to move away or not making the big decision. And further has a well shot, indicative climax which is a complete chapter in itself to study, leaving many open questions for the viewer to seriosuly think upon. As an added gem it has a memorable qawwali track Maula Saleem Chisti by Aziz Ahmed Khan Warsi, which is still cherished by the lovers of this specific art form. And just watch out the way, director M. S. Sathyu beautifully incorporates the qawwali in a terrific manner.
For the younger generation, GARAM HAWA might turn out to be a slower version of those hyperactive ugly moments of the significant era. But the film has many hidden meaningful sequences which need to be studied deeply considering it as an opportunity to visit the crucial time period through an effective Time Machine.
Giving you an example of its vision and the excellence achieved, the film begins with the voice of Janab Kaifi Azmi reciting his own verses in the opening titles as:
"Taqseem Hua Mulk To Dil Ho Gaye Tukde,
Har Seene Mein Toofan Wahan Bhi Tha, Yahan Bhi,
Har Ghar Mein Chita Jalti Thi, Lehra Tey Thhey Sholay,
Har Shehar Mein Shamshaan Wahan Bhi Tha, Yahan Bhi,
Geeta Ki Koi Sunta, Na Quran Ki Sunta,
Hairaan Tha Imaan, Wahan Bhi Tha, Yahan Bhi"
Ironically, the film unanimously acclaimed to be among the best ever made in Indian cinema was not officially available on any format for a long period till the YouTube revolution allowed some enthusiastic movie lovers to upload it online for all.
However just recently it was in news that the film is being digitally restored and is being readied for a re-release in theaters reaching out to the new generation. So if you haven't watched it yet then go for it at the earliest as this is one of those important Indian classics that essentially need to be seen in order to call yourself a dedicated and responsible follower of Hindi cinema.
In short, it's a not to be missed, must watch gem for all lovers of meaningful, thought-provoking movies who wish to see the hardcore reality, as it was or unfortunately as it is. And I honestly love it the most as despite talking about the black events it still successfully conveys a positive message to the viewers, strengthening the strong image of a diverse yet united 'One India'.
Directed By M. S. Sathyu
Starring : Balraj Sahni, Farukh Sheikh & More
Music By Bahadur Khan, Aziz Ahmed Khan Warsi
