As one online review aptly puts it, Mehboob Khan's 'Elaan' was indeed the first and last film to venture into forbidden territory: a social drama looking at Indian Muslims from the inside. Well before the birth of Bollywood's ongoing obsession with terrorism subplots in films portraying Muslims, 'Elaan' brings to the forefront issues ranging from marital abuse, lack of education, children and family systems, the role of religiosity and fundamentalism, the "haves and have-nots", and many more. So powerful and taboo, even then in undivided British India, was this subject matter that 'Elaan' found itself banned temporarily in 1947.
Singing-acting star Surendra Nath ('Anmol Ghadi' with Noor Jehan & Suraiya) alongside actress Munawwar Sultana (starring in 'Dard' the same year) make this emotion-filled film shine with superb acting. Supporting actors and actresses include Himalayawala, Zebunissa, and Leela Mishra, all giving powerful performances. Making the painful moments of the film strike close to home is the film's music director, the one and only Naushad Ali, using poetry by Zia Sarhadi in his melodies.
Fortunately is the case that the songs in this film do not interrupt the flow of events, but rather provide story-telling. There are no unnecessary dance or song sequences which feel out-of-place; rather, songs such as "Rote Hue Aaye Hain" allow Munawwar Sultana to express pain, and the penultimate song to which the film closes, "Insan Ki Tehzeeb", is full of soul and resonates with deep meaning.
Til date, the Indian film industry has been unable to release a social drama capable of echoing with its audience, focusing on issues situated in the realities of practically every individual. The only downside in the film is its rarity; it is nearly impossible to find. By all means, if this film happens to float your way, make an effort to give it a viewing.
Singing-acting star Surendra Nath ('Anmol Ghadi' with Noor Jehan & Suraiya) alongside actress Munawwar Sultana (starring in 'Dard' the same year) make this emotion-filled film shine with superb acting. Supporting actors and actresses include Himalayawala, Zebunissa, and Leela Mishra, all giving powerful performances. Making the painful moments of the film strike close to home is the film's music director, the one and only Naushad Ali, using poetry by Zia Sarhadi in his melodies.
Fortunately is the case that the songs in this film do not interrupt the flow of events, but rather provide story-telling. There are no unnecessary dance or song sequences which feel out-of-place; rather, songs such as "Rote Hue Aaye Hain" allow Munawwar Sultana to express pain, and the penultimate song to which the film closes, "Insan Ki Tehzeeb", is full of soul and resonates with deep meaning.
Til date, the Indian film industry has been unable to release a social drama capable of echoing with its audience, focusing on issues situated in the realities of practically every individual. The only downside in the film is its rarity; it is nearly impossible to find. By all means, if this film happens to float your way, make an effort to give it a viewing.
