Paheli

Palekar’s puzzling ‘re-telling’ of a classic Rajasthani folktale is a bit of a mystery. A ghost (Khan) assumes the form of Lachchi’s (Mukherjee) absent husband Kisna (Khan) and they fall in love. Naturally complications ensue when the real hubby returns and finds his virgin bride with child… The film has ‘women’s weepie’ aspirations but Palekar is no Sirk and he has little to say about the folk tradition and its preponderance over everyday Indian life. It is commendable to see A-list Bollywood stars supporting different commercial cinema but this touristy vision of Rajasthani life, filled with not-so-special effects and colourful songs, lacks the dramatic impact to transcend its preposterous plot. Only Bachchan’s customary cameo (temporarily) lifts the spirits.