A great Learning Experience

A great Learning experience

This article of mine was published in THE HINDU of July 12^th, 2001.

Aamir Khan’s Lagaan is more than a tale of villagers taking on the British.

It is replete with examples of self-worth, team spirit and positive attitude – all ingredients

for success in life. Presenting a reader’s perspective.

‘Titanic’, THAT majestic Hollywood blockbuster got rave reviews and reviews. It was written about from every possible angle and each piece had different and intelligent view points. Likewise, Lagaan, the Bollywood blockbuster, which is currently running in the local movie halls, may soon go the Titanic way, judging by the printed word on the film and its maker.

Seen as a turning point for the Hindi film industry in terms of its fortunes, and being different from the formula films, Lagaan is an absolutely commendable effort.

Viewed from a different perspective, it is replete with a curious alchemy of ingredients for success in life. The skills used by Bhuvan, the main character, brilliantly portrayed by Aamir Khan, may be cited as an example by ‘speakers et al’ in their lectures. One can draw lessons from almost all the scenes in the film, if observed analytically.

In the film, due to circumstances, Bhuvan – pushed to the wall – is confronted with a major problem affecting the community. Faced with a ‘do-or-die situation, and after deep thought, he takes the initiative to face the challenge and seizes the opportunity. With a vision and a mission, he goes about his task, not allowing his emotions to get the better of him. He knows that with self-confidence and self-belief, and by putting in all efforts, the desired results would come.

He takes upon himself the responsibilities that go with the task. He defends his decision, explaining the core of the issue and succeeds in garnering the support of his own people.

Exhibiting his skills, acquiring them through observation, he lays down his plans to the consternation of people around him. He demonstrates his skills with telling effect, and goes about building up a team of beginners who slowly shed their inhibitions, and start believing in him. His leadership skills emerge.

When an admirer from the opponents’ camp offers to help in the cause, he keeps an open mind and accepts it. Bhuvan pays attention to the individuals in the team, highlighting their strength, and ignoring their weaknesses.

He trains them and gets trained in the process. He repeatedly tells and reminds them of their duties, often motivating them to put all their efforts in achieving the goal.

He spurs them, telling them not to buckle under the opponent’s threats and sledgings. He leads his team from the front, utilizing the skills of his team members appropriately at the opportune time with his unwavering commitment, dedication and determination. With his witty remarks, he also creates an atmosphere of humour.

The opponents – the Britishers – underestimate the inner strengths of a human being. Their over-confidence, egoism, ill treatment of fellow human beings. – All negative traits – let them down. It is pertinent to observe here, that in this game, the Britishers could have won, due to their all-round superior skills, despite the positive efforts put in by Bhuvan and his team. But, luck played its part. Fortune favours the brave.

Bhuvan’s ladylove, Gauri, with her grace, innocence and expressive eyes, reposes implicit faith, and supports the cause to the hilt.

The silent – yet – powerful support of the family members, further strengthens the cause taken up by Bhuvan. Their sacrifices contributed to the success of the mission. A powerful ingredient in the Indian context.

M.V.MADHUSUDAN