"Chai Pani Etc" is a satirical feature film by Manu Rewal with Konkona Sen Sharma in a double role.
It proved to be the surprise find of the international film festival in Goa. It will be screened at an international film
festival in Mumbai Jan 9.
The central dilemma of Satya, played by Zafar Karachiwala in a sensitive and subtle way, is whether he should
bribe to get his work done or just linger on forever? The integrity and idealism of the young expatriate is
challenged at every stage by apathy, corruption and the desire to censor unnecessarily.
His friend, played by veejay Gaurav Kapur, makes Satya face up to the ways of the world. However, it is not all
bleak and there are enough people within the establishment who are willing to help.
Konkona plays the two girlfriends of the young man, in a convincing double role performance that once again
proves her to be one of the best actresses of her generation.
Konkona's Shanti as an NGO teacher in Jaisalmer is remarkable with underplayed sensuality while her Radha
is a bold free spirit who shows an unexpected vulnerability.
In one of the memorable scenes, on her first encounter with Satya, she gives him a lingering glance. Is it love at
first sight or plain curiosity?
Apart from these three impressive young actors, the film stars Delhi's veteran stage, TV and radio performers
who are otherwise rarely seen on the big screen.
There is a marvellous scene in which a minister, played by Bhaskar Ghosh, sees through his department's folly
and takes an unusual decision.
Another memorable scene stars Yuri, a popular radio jockey who plays a don who threatens his creditors in
front of a shocked Satya. TV newscaster Tejeshwar Singh and stage actress Sinia Duggal, last seen on the big
screen in "Perfect Husband", play a hilarious couple who want to get the young man married at all
costs.
"Chai Pani Etc" is an entertaining comedy film full of joy and humour, which pulls its punches at contemporary
Indian life with truth and irony.
Tuesday, January 04, 2005 16:50 IST