Review : Raghuveer: A Devotional Drama Unveiling the Life of Ramdas Swami!
Maharashtra, a land revered for its rich spiritual heritage, has been home to countless saints who have profoundly influenced the social fabric of the nation. Among these towering figures stands Samarth Ramdas Swami, a saint whose life was a beacon of selflessness and service. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the valiant Maratha King, was deeply devoted to Ramdas Swami, seeking his counsel in every significant decision he made. The recently released Marathi film, Raghuveer, beautifully chronicles the life of this extraordinary saint, offering a glimpse into his tireless efforts to prepare ordinary people for the monumental struggle against the Mughal regime.
The story unfolds with Narayan (portrayed by Ninad Kulkarni), a bright young boy from the village of Jamb in Maharashtra. In an era where child marriages were commonplace, Narayan, driven by a higher calling, flees from his own wedding, determined to dedicate his life to serving society. His unwavering devotion to Lord Ram leads him to become Ramdas (played by Vikram Gaikwad), and eventually, Sant Ramdas—a spiritual leader who instills the importance of physical and mental strength in the youth, urging them to rise against the Mughal onslaught. His contributions to women’s empowerment are also highlighted, painting a vivid picture of his life’s mission.
The narrative, penned by Abhiram Bhadkamkar, is rooted in thorough research, though the screenplay, co-written with Nilesh Arun Kunjir, struggles to inject drama into the unfolding events. However, Ajit Parab’s music skillfully complements the onscreen proceedings, enhancing the film’s devotional atmosphere. Vikram Gaikwad delivers a sincere and convincing performance as the central character, capturing the essence of Ramdas Swami with depth and dignity. The supporting cast, including Rituja Deshmukh as the mother, Shailesh Datar, Rahul Mehendale, Vignesh Joshi, Varsha Dandale, and Navin Prabhakar, all contribute to bringing this historical narrative to life.
Raghuveer is more than just a film; it is a reverent biopic of Ramdas Swami, offering a spiritual journey that will resonate with viewers drawn to devotional themes.
Rating : ***
By Keerti Kadam