The Holi number is peppy with striking visuals. Otherwise having the 11 women in one frame becomes nothing but a screech-fest. Having Vidya in a film is an asset though. She is an audacious actor, who merits an extra half star for her ability to shoulder a film.

Would I recommend Begum Jaan? I would. For Vidya who bravely shoulders this cliche with all she’s got. And also because of the times we live in, when exclusion has taken the form of a multi-headed monster who raises his head in every sphere.

Rajkahini the Bengali original of Begum Jaan is now on my to-watch list.

Srijit Mukherji’s Bangla period film ‘Rajkahini’ (2015), that this one is the exact replica of, was slightly refreshing, mainly because it was set during 1947 Partition, yes, but on the eastern front, where East Pakistan was being separated from West Bengal, Assam. Normally, Partition narratives get placed in the North, mainly Punjab. As is this adaptation, by the way. Except you don’t hear as much Punjabi here.

In creating a world where women rule the roost, the film misses the wood for the trees. Or sex for the sleaze.

Begum Jaan is strong, inspiring, shocking, and more than anything — heart-wrenching. Don’t forget to take your handkerchief (or tissues!) along.

Begum Jaan isn’t an easy watch. It makes you squirm at the double standards prevailing in the society. At the same time, it comforts you with a hope that ‘woh subah kabhi toh aayegi’. Watch it for Vidya Balan whose piercing eyes and firebrand dialogues gives you ample of goosebump-inducing moments!

Overall it’s a good film to watch with ferocious acting by Vidya, stellar performances of the other starcast, perfect direction and a musical treat by the legendary singers, but definitely not meant for timid hearted people. So all you brave hearts don’t just sit at home this weekend, but make your way to the theatres to witness the partition era again. Just don’t give this a miss!!! 

If you want gut-wrenching truths told with searing honesty and sans showiness and sham, check out this film. You will take back quite a few characters and sequences from it. This is one film that haunts me even as I write this review. And I hope that the box-office is kind to it.