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Anand Narayan comes from a poor family, which consists of his wife, Gayetri, daughter, Kamla, and two sons Madhu and Govind. Through hard work, Anand starts on his way to success. He meets with Nekiram, who becomes his business partner, and also his samdhi (in-law) as his daughter is in love with Madhu. Both get married in a simple ceremony. After this marriage, both Nekiram, and Anand and his family work hard at preparing food in a small dhaba, which soon grows into a restaurant, then a larger fancier restaurant, finally a five star hotel. Now Anand and his family are all wealthy and live in a palatial home. Anand gets to talking to Bhagwan Shri Kishan, who regularly visits him and asks about him and his family. Anand proudly takes all the credit, and asks Kishan to accompany him to see his success and his hotel. Bhagwan Kishan declines, but agrees do so later. Things don’t go quite as well for Anand, when he finds out that Nekiram has been cheating him. Nekiram leaves the house, but Madhu accompanies him. Then Anand finds that Govind has been squandering money and time on women and alcohol; and to top his disappointment Kamla gets pregnant. When Bhagwan Kishan comes to visit Anand again, he admits that he is a failure, his health is poor, and his family are all strangers to him. Lord Kishan advises Anand that this is his life and he must learn from the Mahabharat, and that every life is a struggle, which is confused by relations and near and dear ones, and also by one’s ego. Once the ego is removed, then only one can see clearly. But will Anand be able to understand and carry out what Lord Kishan is asking him to? Or will end up taking the blame, like he took the credit, upon himself?
Duration: 133 min
Released: 1977
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10 (73 Votes)
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family, Hindi Movies
Stars: David Abraham, Romesh Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar, Utpal Dutt
Directors: KS Sethumadhavan
Writers: Inder Raj Anand, Raj Baldev Raj, Vaali
Year: 1977
Server 1 – Dailymotion
Yehi Hai Zindagi (1977): A Heartwarming Blend of Comedy and Drama in Bollywood Cinema
Introduction
"Yehi Hai Zindagi," translated as "This is Life," is a Hindi-language Bollywood film released in 1977. This movie is a fine example of the Indian cinema of the 1970s, intertwining elements of comedy, drama, and family values, which resonated well with audiences of that era. The film explores the complexities and simplicities of everyday life through its narrative, focusing on the characters' journey and their interpersonal relationships.
Plot and Theme
At its core, "Yehi Hai Zindagi" portrays the ordinary yet emotionally rich lives of individuals dealing with family, societal expectations, and personal aspirations. The storyline deftly balances humor and seriousness, highlighting the ironies and joys of life. The narrative often delves into themes of love, sacrifice, misunderstandings, and the enduring bonds of family, painting a realistic picture of life in an Indian social setting during the 1970s.
The title is reflective of the film's overarching message — that life's trials and triumphs, the bitter and the sweet, are all part of the journey that defines existence itself.
Cast and Characters
While these two actors are highlighted as the top credits, the film also features other supporting cast members who contribute to the familial and societal dynamics portrayed on screen.
Director and Writer
Directed and written by Basu Chatterjee, a celebrated filmmaker known for his unique storytelling style that often focuses on middle-class life and relationships, "Yehi Hai Zindagi" bears his signature touch of simplicity infused with emotional depth. Chatterjee’s approach to cinema often emphasizes relatable characters and situations without the glitz and glamor typical of mainstream Bollywood, and this film is a testament to his narrative philosophy.
His direction ensures that the movie stays grounded, drawing the audience into the everyday experiences of the characters and reflecting real-life dilemmas with warmth and sensitivity.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography in "Yehi Hai Zindagi" supports the narrative by maintaining a straightforward and unpretentious visual style, allowing the story and performances to take center stage. The visual tone complements the film’s themes, capturing the ambiance of the time and the domestic milieu of the characters.
Music plays a vital role in Bollywood films, often driving the emotional undercurrents of the story. The songs in "Yehi Hai Zindagi," composed by the legendary Kalyanji-Anandji duo, are melodious and resonate with the film’s themes of love, hope, and life's trials.
Popular Songs and Singers
These songs are not mere embellishments but integral to the storytelling, evoking the emotional states of the characters and helping the audience connect on a deeper level.
Legacy and Impact
Though not a blockbuster by commercial standards, "Yehi Hai Zindagi" holds a special place in the hearts of cinephiles who appreciate films that reflect realistic human experiences. The performances of Sanjeev Kumar and Utpal Dutt are often cited as highlights, and Basu Chatterjee’s direction is praised for crafting a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film mirrors the social fabric of its time, addressing universal themes that continue to resonate.
Its blend of humor, drama, and familial relationships creates a timeless narrative that appeals to audiences seeking substance and sincerity in cinema.
Conclusion
"Yehi Hai Zindagi" is a quintessential Bollywood movie that gracefully combines comedy, drama, and family elements under the expert direction of Basu Chatterjee. With powerhouse performances from Sanjeev Kumar and Utpal Dutt, supported by evocative music from Kalyanji-Anandji and iconic singers like Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, the film is a beautiful reflection on life itself—its challenges, joys, and enduring spirit.
For anyone interested in exploring Indian cinema beyond the commercial spectacle, "Yehi Hai Zindagi" offers a heartfelt and authentic glimpse into the trials and triumphs of ordinary life, making it a must-watch classic in the Bollywood film canon.
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