Chhath Review: This heart-touching family story, you can watch the film here:

News Topical, Digital Desk : The first thing that comes to mind when Bhojpuri films or songs are mentioned is their vulgarity and obscenity. Moreover, the double-meaning dialogues are often the most common. This makes people reluctant to watch Bhojpuri films or songs with their families. Meanwhile, Neetu Chandra, who won the National Award for Best Film in the Maithili category for Mithila Makhan, is making a meaningful effort to change this image through her films with her brother and director Nitin Neera Chandra. Their film "Chhath," released on the digital platform Waves on October 24th, is the latest example. The film, woven around the celebration of Chhath festival and the bonds of family relationships, beautifully depicts the importance of family.

The story is set in a village in Bihar. Govind (Shashi Verma) lives with his mother and wife, Jyoti (Sneha Pallavi). Their two sons are studying in Motihari. One son couldn't come back after Chhath due to exams. After 25 years, Govind's entire family gathers for Chhath. His three sisters come with their husbands and children, while his nephew, Mohit (Deepak Singh), comes with his newlywed wife, Nilanjana (Meghna Panchal). Mohit works in America. Mohit's parents have passed away. Govind has had a deep connection with Mohit since his birth. The gathering brings back childhood memories. Mohit brings Nilanjana to show his land, but there's a small building housing a clinic, which is a matter of concern for Mohit. He learns from a distant relative that his uncle is earning good rent from this clinic. Mohit is upset that his uncle built the clinic on his land without informing him. He feels that his uncle has usurped his land. He then demands that his uncle demolish the house or pay four years' rent of approximately six lakh rupees. If he doesn't, he threatens to withhold the evening payment and leave. From there, the atmosphere in the house becomes tense. The family is divided into two camps. Govind repeatedly tries to reason with Mohit, but he refuses to listen. Has Govind really usurped the land? What is the real reason behind it? The story revolves around this. Director Nitin Neera Chandra has meticulously explored the sacred festival of Chhath, family relationships, the conflicts within them, and the thoughts and customs of the new generation living outside Bihar. He maintains a grip on the story from beginning to end. Since the film was shot in a village, the atmosphere feels realistic. Beginning with the family gathering, Nitin brings us into the world of Govind and his family as they prepare for Chhath. Aspects like the aunt's taunting if the newlywed daughter-in-law doesn't drape her pallu properly or wear toe rings, the uncle's picky eating habits, the sisters' mutual mockery of their own sister-in-law, and the bickering between siblings are all depicted with great detail. Many scenes in the film will remind those in middle-class families of their childhood, gathering for special occasions. Govind's efforts to reduce the conflict and Mohit's ego clash feel realistic. It also cautions against judging relationships without knowing the truth. Overall, every scene has been meticulously crafted. The film's dialogue is also effective. The good thing is that each character has a chance to develop. Some dialogue in the film is also in Hindi, but it doesn't disrupt the flow of Bhojpuri.

Made on a limited budget, this film's performances are a key aspect. Shashi Verma portrays Govind's intimacy, helplessness, and responsible family member with great intensity. Many of her scenes are moving. Sneha Pallavi's performance as his wife is commendable. Deepak Singh embodies Mohit's stubbornness and arrogance with simplicity. Meghna Panchal portrays Nilanjana's conflict with brilliance. The supporting cast deserves praise. This Bhojpuri film is truly heartwarming and conveys the message of understanding the importance of family and relationships.