Jhini Bini Chadariya (2021) User Reviews

A Tapestry of lives in Varanasi

[fizadawn · 10/10 · 30 March 2024]

A wave of gratitude washed over me today. A movie poster, a review by Danish Husain, and a surge of curiosity - it all led me down a path to a wonderful surprise! The opportunity to watch this film filled me with joy.

Set in the vibrant city of Varanasi, the movie captures the essence of life in India, a country I hold dear as my own. The story, masterfully crafted by Ritesh Sharma and his team, is a testament to the beautiful tapestry of Indian society. In this city, Hindus and Muslims coexist peacefully, their lives interwoven.

Enter Shahdab, a Muslim weaver, and Rani, a dancer. Though from different backgrounds, they lead fulfilling lives. But fate takes a turn, and their paths intertwine. The movie transcends their individual stories, offering a glimpse into a world where harmony prevails.

For those familiar with the works of Kabir, a 15th-century mystic poet who promoted religious tolerance, the film resonates deeply. It portrays an India where weavers, often Muslim, created exquisite sarees adorned by Hindu women. Religion becomes irrelevant in the face of shared humanity and artistic expression.

The storytelling is captivating, leaving room for both interpretation and emotional connection. It carries a powerful message - a message of love over hate, a message that transcends borders. This is a film the world needs to see.

A heartfelt thank you to Ritesh Sharma and his team for presenting a story that is both authentic and inspiring. Here's to their continued success and to the movie's impact on audiences worldwide.

I WAS MOVEDD!!

[shriyamishra-16382 · 10/10 · 22 January 2024]

Being a fairly young audience, i would like to say one thing this movie was the MOST REAL AND MOST RAW movie out there. It touches upon topics so sexual assault, Muslims vs Hindus and Israrel vs Palestein , corruption, objectifying of women and how machines are taking over the traditional handlooms and its art and beauty. This movie makes people realise that hate and fighting does not lead to a good and pleasant life it only leads to destruction and loss of souls. The negativity and hate does not solve problems its living together understanding each others perspective and life which will lead to a peaceful life.

Beyond Bias: Exploring Everyday Beauty

[chedr-24016 · 10/10 · 23 January 2024]

The film very beautifully illustrated intricate fabrics of human intentions, love and loss. Despite individuals simply living their lives and minding their own business, they become unwitting pawns in political agendas. It emphasizes that inaction is a meaningful action, a silent permission. The film underscores the importance of setting aside propaganda to focus on individual lives, urging viewers to preserve empathy and love.

I personally can relate to the relevance of this movie since I have travelled to Israel. It had given me an opportunity to keep aside my biases. Life is too short to ignore beauty shown in this film. Just mundane life and yet worth noting. The film leaves me dejected that people don't understand and this will continue to happen.

Pure Political Piece.

[bonitanow · 7/10 · 8 January 2024]

Very discomforting gut-wrenching at points, but moments like rani's raw stage gigs and adah's monologue about world problems caught me off-guard and left a permanent print in my mind. Sivan's performance, free and easy.

It's a purely political piece, which addresses most heinous realities of communal riots and class systems and it's impact on the minority and underprivileged.

However, I feel that portraying Rani's and Shahdab's characters as flawless saintly humans who are nothing but victims have striped off of their humanity & their own intellect.

But if you look at it objectively, It shows a very painful reality of today's time & I hope it generates some sense of awareness in people. All over, it was a hard-watch type of film, loved the twists taking places, as the time passes, it keeps you in your toes and by the end you're on the edge. I had a bittersweet experience.

This is just what I think :) There's always a lot to learn & take from this film. Absolutely loved the static frames, Rani kissing Mustafa being my fevorite. Sound person did an astounding job, OST was SO APT. I was hooked throughout. I can definitely consider it a IRL trip to Banaras. :D.

The movie deserves to get released in theatre or at OTT.

[kushtewari · 8/10 · 30 December 2023]

This movie covers the untouched parts of Banaras with all essential elements that should have been shown previously apart from ghats, galees, cuisine, etc.

Watching 'Jhini Bini Chadariya' is like recalling the glimpse of Anawar ka ajab Kissa, Masaan, Liar's Dice, Chandani Bar. But having said that, the voice of movie- its story- is in its purest form.

Honestly, the movie leads to the possibilites in todays time on the backdrop of culture, profession and helplessness.

The frames and caputing of scenes are unique, the charcters are entirely different from each other. Muzaffar Khan does job without saying much.

The movie should be seen by cinema lovers wherever possible, although I hope it gets a proper release.

Masterpiece indeed

[somnathseal-32003 · 9/10 · 10 April 2024]

As a part of 5th #bbkff2023 (Satyajit Ray Film Society Bengaluru) I had the privilege of watching a cinematic masterpiece "Jhini Bini Chadariya" (The Brittle Thread) . Ritesh Sharma's directorial prowess and the stellar performances by Megna and Muzaffar Khan left me in awe. The film beautifully captures the essence of Banaras, as Ritesh aptly put it, " It is said about Banaras that the azaan wakes up people to go to the temple, it's a beautiful city full of ordinary people with interesting stories."

Set against the backdrop of the aftermath of the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition, the movie unfolds as a poignant love story, weaving together visually stunning shots. It skillfully portrays the impact of religious politics and polarization on the lives of common, innocent people. Ritesh's insightful quote about Banaras resonates throughout the narrative, shedding light on the intricate layers of the city's social fabric.

The film serves as a powerful commentary on the dangerous trend of using religion as a tool for political manipulation, depicting the helplessness of the common people. It's disheartening that such impactful films often circulate primarily within festivals, limiting their reach. I highly recommend adding this thought-provoking film to your bucket list for its profound exploration of societal complexities and the universal theme of love within chaos.

A Must View

[anniefredyg · 10/10 · 20 December 2023]

The Brittle Thread/ Jhini Bini Chadariya written and directed by Ritesh Sharma is a powerful, genuine and relevant movie. It portrays and raise awareness to the stark social and religious tensions and the hardship of life not usually portrayed in relation to the ancient and colorful city of Varanasi. It is a reality of Varanasi seldom seen on screen, mixing the lives of local Hindus, Muslims, pilgrims and tourists into collision and a heartbreaking climax.

The script and cinematography capture the essence and atmosphere of the deep social, religious and political conflicts in Varanasi in particular and Indian society in general, with a sensitive and nuanced plot and diverse and contrasting main characters. The two main narratives take place simultaneously, seemingly disparate though intertwined and end in tragedy. It is a story of love, religious hate, rage and anger, naïveté and pain. The characters are good and bad, strong and weak, which makes them relatable. The authentic, natural-acting, credible and excellent cast make a powerful impact. The characters feel and act real.

The Brittle Thread is an insightful, poignant and emotional movie developing from romance to tragedy. It's a beautifully realistic and sad movie. It is an important film to watch and I highly recommend it.

I hope this film will find its way and roar to many people around the world.

[sayyamkhannaofficial · 8/10 · 5 February 2024]

The dynamics in the film left me astound. The soundscape of the film doesn't let you escape from the place of Varanasi. I was completely lost myself in the film, how fragile we are as a human in the name of religion. The spaces in the film are too organic and delves you deep into the narrative. The film not only just talks about religion in India, it's all over the world and we have to understand the sensitivity of it. We don't need inspiration to make or watch this kind of film. I wonder, what a journey it was for the team in making of this film.

As a filmmaker, we want our voice to be heard, and I know this film brings a lot positive for people in way of seeing person of another caste and religion. I hope the world will become a better place.

Congratulations and more power to the whole team!

The Brittle Thread an excellent movie

[raeespkvk · 10/10 · 14 December 2023]

Jhini Bini Chadariya (The Brittle Thread) is an excellent movie with its story, making and commitment to the society. It speaks about the society. It shows insecurities in some communities. The film speaks clear politics but even in one scene the film does not cross the border of cinema to a political statement or propaganda medium. The film also deals with love between two religious people. Nowadays, the war is going on between Israel amd Palestine. This scenario makes the movie fittest for the time. The direction, cinematography and the locations chosen for the shooting is very excellent. Kudos The Brittle Thread team.

Bringing together subtle emotions and strong feelings

[govindmenon-87 · 10/10 · 18 December 2023]

I have had the opportunity to work with Ritesh on several occasions and he has wonderfully captured what many of us observe, yet fail to talk about in public. In the movie, Ritesh boldly surfaces themes of love, communalism, patriarchy, loss etc. By weaving together a wonderful narrative. What makes it even more beautiful is the intermingling of several stories into a single thread. The actors have done justice for their characters and subtle expressions reflect the attention to detail paid by Ritesh in developing and establishing characters. All in all, a film worth watching and reflecting on. It stays with you.

You feel the Varanasi vibe

[yuvalspector · 10/10 · 18 December 2023]

The movie has a unique style. The actors perform in the streets of Varanasi, which makes everything feel very realistic.

Jhini Bini has romance, action, and a political message. The characters in the movie are authentic. They combine good and bad, weaknesses and strengths, which makes them highly relatable.

I was left with a lot of emotions and thoughts after watching the movie. The movie makes you think about life and exposes us to some unpleasant realities about the world we live in, and not just in India. However, it also helped me appreciate the life I have.

I would passionately recommend watching it.

Screenplay & Direction ❤

[drshivanshuverma-66028 · 10/10 · 18 December 2023]

'' The Brittle Thread '' , It's really veryyyy nice & I like the way that scenes Convey the deep beauty of emotions and purity of screenplay... superb ❤Jhini Bini Chadariya (The Brittle Thread) is an excellent movie with its story, making and commitment to the society. It speaks about the society. It shows insecurities in some communities. The film speaks clear politics but even in one scene the film does not cross the border of cinema to a political statement or propaganda medium. The film also deals with love between two religious people. Nowadays, the war is going on between Israel amd Palestine. This scenario makes the movie fittest for the time. The direction, cinematography and the locations chosen for the shooting is very excellent.

A microcosm that is Varanasi

[sulakshanabiswas · 10/10 · 18 January 2024]

A poetic rendition in cinema, "The Brittle Thread" unerringly maps the rival geography of the human heart. Set against the backdrop of the oldest living city and its trials and tribulations with the right wing Hindutva wave, Rani, Shadab and Adah form the trio of characters who explore these insurgent times. The film has been shot in many constraints, which adds to my respect for the filmmaker and the use of real locations enhance the psychological landscape of the players in the game. The team marries impeccable technique with degree zero filmmaking and brings out the ethos in the narrative with a mastery.

Watched at NYIFF 2022...

[filmbuffforever-65804 · 8/10 · 15 December 2023]

I had a good opportunity to watch Jhini Bini Chadariya online at NYIFF 2022.

Two love stories, two religions, two parallel worlds, a thread almost snapping between two fingers - all in a city of two cultural contrasts and extremes, Varanasi!

The ending sunk me. Actually, shouldn't so, for such horrors have become regular occurrences since decades and more so with the current dispensation.

Spellbinding sights and sounds of the religious city, some standout frames of winding staircases, prayers and the looms, and a spontaneous and vivacious performance by Megha, are the strongpoints of the film.

Reel to real life

[ashishkumar-02815 · 10/10 · 20 December 2023]

Aesthetically this film is so rich to get into lives. Various character gives permision to take entry into thier lives like alleys of banaras which are connected with each other but unaware that they are connected.

Hope the visuals of the film will give you chance to see in your proximity and comprehend that everything is ok or not ok. Every character is living their journey and their own way to escalate it is different which might awestruck.

I am not writing any excerpts of the film just want to share my thought which is behind the words. Various times such films just want people to watch the film and shape their words based on it.

Everyone, if this film ever gets screened in movie theatres., please don't miss it. So happy and proud Ritesh Sharma JHINI BINI CHADARIYA Beautifully shot and authentically

[nupursha · 10/10 · 13 December 2023]

Everyone, if this film ever gets screened in movie theatres., please don't miss it.

So happy and proud Ritesh Sharma

JHINI BINI CHADARIYA Beautifully shot and authentically told heart-wrenching, socio-political, love story set in Banaras.

In the ancient city of Varanasi, which embraces an intricate history of Hinduism and Islam, a sari weaver and an orchestral dancer live their respective lives, until an incident occurs.

In the ancient city of Varanasi, which embraces an intricate history of Hinduism and Islam, a sari weaver and an orchestral dancer live their respective lives, until an incident occurs.

A must watch

[AdithiKalkunte · 8/10 · 18 December 2023]

Terrific performance by Muzafar Khan . A great depiction of the city Varnasi by Ritesh sharma. A must watch. Meghna mathur, Sivan Spector too give good performances. I loved how the movie evolved. Films like these open our eyes to lives led by people in different corners of the world. Lovely sound design and cinematography. Some of the shots just blew my mind. Everything is shot from a distance therefore you see the characters as well as the life around them. The film has may wide shots wich makes it very different experience. Every frame has its own story to tell and hence this would be a film that would be strongly recommended.

Please watch this movie.

Raising the bar in pacing, empathy

[smushieaust · 10/10 · 18 December 2023]

This film is writhing with a will to be seen and felt. The emotional reach is undeniable - political tensions are both observed and addressed, and every character's interior experience is surgically extracted and illuminated throughout the movie without their being victims of circumstance. At 97 minutes it is a showcase in compassion, and the viewer is presented with a tapestry of raw cultural potential - peace among Muslims, Hindus, not to mention its searching, disaffected Israeli character, Adah, portrayed by Sivan Spector who commands this role without affect. For viewers in the West, we are given entry into a world that exists somewhat beyond the Christian veil (but still confronting the echoes of a colonial past), where individual and collective aspirations manage to clash and converge in ancient Varanasi.

A Must Watch

[arfilamba · 9/10 · 15 December 2023]

Watch this film for some of the finest performances on screen that you will see this year. Megha Mathur kills it in a pivotal role, so does every other actor. Ritesh directs this film resting on narratives of ordinary, lower middle class characters, with the finesse of a experienced story teller, though this is his debut. Watch the film for it has its politics in the right place, and just like LIFE, it has love, heartbreak, and family at its core.

The city of Varanasi is a perfect backdrop for three stories. The majestic and ancient city not only serve as a fitting backdrop for age old class divides, it also highlights the present religious fault lines that the country is witnessing.

The BGM is excellent and camera work is exquisite. Well done team.

A raw yet inspiring film

[AliaSaOfficial · 10/10 · 19 December 2023]

I saw this film some time ago and still remember the impact it left.

Somehow the filmmaker managed to make the audience feel every emotion of the characters and give them an honest and raw picture of life in Varanasi without making the film too heavy nor showing egregious violence. There were moments that I shuttered because my soul empathized with the character's pain, yet I never had to look away like I do with many films today.

This film boldly tackles issues that the business side of film encourages us to stay away from in the present political climate of India, but it does it with elegance and humility. At no point does one feel like there's an agenda being pushed onto the story. It is simply showing the reality of the protagonists experience. The audience is witnessing life on screen, and just like life, this film has special moments of sorrow, love, heartbreak, pain, tragedy, laughter, and hope.

Brave, raw, life-changing

[ekaterinanikolova · 10/10 · 28 December 2023]

Jhini Bini is a brave film. The young director Ritesh Sharma shows an unknown face of Varanasi, weaving in stories of different casts, religions, livelihoods and political realities in a fascinating thread that leaves the viewer shaken and amazed. The scenes and characters stay crystal clear in one's mind for years to come.

I had the honor to be among the first to see the movie and I remain as deeply touched by it now as when I first watched it.

Sharma's life project of social justice is evident in this film, as well as his passion to speak for the underprivileged with all respect and to work to change the world one film at a time.

Gentle yet Stern

[gurleen-83402 · 10/10 · 18 December 2023]

What a beautiful film !

Set in Varanasi , it shows the reality - both the beautiful and the ugly with such rawness as if you're right there on its streets and not watching it through a screen ! That is the level of nakedness it has.

Even though raw , the treatment of the film is with a lot of tenderness that it can really warm up your heart or make you uneasy to the core.

Beautiful direction , writing , acting , cinematography ( oh what frames! ) , the background score ( such an interesting choice and usage of different instruments) And what interesting characters!!

A Film that is made out of Truth .

Absolutely Stunning

[ilaname · 24 December 2023]

This film is absolutely stunning. The acting is not just good; it's honest, raw, and captured with breathtaking precision. The storyline skillfully entwines four unlikely characters in a mesmerizing tapestry, creating a striking and unforgettable narrative. The film adopts a documentary-style approach, immersing the audience in the vivid sights of Varanasi. The cinematography is so immersive that it transports every viewer to the heart of the city, creating a collective experience as if we were all present together. This distinctive filmmaking style is unique, exquisite, and raw. This is unequivocally a must-watch film, an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your cinematic sensibilities.

Touching and Powerful Movie

[kalanit-15084 · 27 December 2023]

Highly recommended! This is a movie about love and hope, which are ultimately bound by religious and societal tensions. How one's place in society carves their destiny and overpowers their hopes and desires. The movie is film in the city of Varanasi in India in real life. This gives the viewer an intimate sense of the bustle, clutter, chaos, and charm of the city, which adds a realistic dimension to the plot. The actors' poignant performances made me very emotional and touched by the plight of the main characters. The plot is interesting and unexpected and both the acting and the story line made me watch the movie several times.