Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003) User Reviews

Refreshingly bold and meaningful

[shafi4uf · 9/10 · 11 April 2006]

A few days ago, I watched Sudhir Mishra's Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi with some friends. I am still thinking of it after more than a week has passed. Rare does it happen that an Indian movie leaves such a lasting impression. It is refreshingly bold in its portrayal of its central characters and the story of their personal journeys in search for their identities.

The story is set in the early 70's when emergency and pro-poor (naxalite) movement shaped the thoughts and actions of millions of idealistic youth in India. The story deals with three characters- two males and a female, each from a different stratum of Indian society- each with different passions, goals and idealism. It is their story of love, hope and final attainment of their goals.

The central and most important character is without doubt Chitrangada Singh's Geeta. Her idealism draws her to revolutionary ideas, but she is torn by her need for the softer, more materialistic things of life, for love and a family. This constant pull shapes her life, her choices, and her final destination, depicted touchingly in the end of the movie. She is shown as the most human of all the characters, making her the most believable and most admirable. On one hand, I am in awe of her strength and inner resolve; on the other hand, I feel her suffering and emotional trauma.

KayKay Menon's character Siddharth starts out as a youth of privilege who takes a bold step of fighting for the cause he believes in, leaving behind his only true love. He struggles with the repressive authorities and the demons with in him- his sudden realization that he is after all human in the chase scene, had a dramatic effect on me, suddenly bringing other side of his nature into sharp perspective. His desire to fight out the authorities is derived from his own insecurities about himself. He finds his closure when he accepts his failures.

The most complex of all these characters is Shiny Ahuja's Vikram. His desire to climb the social ladder is surpassed only by his fiery passion for Geeta. She is the only centrality to his other wise meaningless, high powered, and politically connected life. She makes him yearn for making himself successful, and that is what drives her away from him. His choices can be understood only in the context of the complex and unfulfilled relationship he shares with Geeta. His love is never requited in the true sense of the word. Nevertheless, he is the one who finally brings meaning back into Geeta's life.

Technically, the movie is very good, with nice camera work and precise scissors of the editor. Some scenes are breathtaking in their beauty. Dialogues are sometimes difficult to understand, but that ends up adding to the over all tension of the movie. A must watch for any lover of good cinema!

Unforgettable....beautiful...haunting and emotional

[rock831983 · 9/10 · 26 August 2006]

Here we go.After a long time finally i watched Haazaron Khwaishein Aisi.Or you can say'Thousand desires such as these'.Sudhir Mishra is a wonderful director.But he seemed somewhat lost during 'Chameli' and 'calcutta mail' when he tried to combine meaningful cinema with commercialism But with Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi he is back in form as he was during 'Is Raat Ki Subah Nahi' and 'dharavi' But most of the dialogues are in English

Story: Sidhharth(kay kay menon) is an idealist. Born to a Muslim lawyer father and a Hindu mother and believes in Marxism.The story traces Siddharth's journey from Marxist jargon to the Maoist (Naxalite) rebellion. His emotional attachment to Geeta does not stop him from his political pursuits. Post-college, Geeta(Chitrangada Singh) is married to an IAS officer but she continues to see Siddharth on the sly. Vikram(Shiny Ahuja) too has always nursed unconditional love in his heart for Geeta. But that's all there is to his soft side. A small town boy once, Vikram climbs the social ladder by networking in the big league unabashedly. Geeta ends her marriage and starts living in the village with Siddharth. This is the time in the film when Geeta's character evolves. From a London-bred girl to teaching village women, or having a child out of wedlock or asking favours from Vikram in hours of need to a lot of other gruesome realities, Geeta discovers herself. The story movies on. The characters mature and move on. They regret. They apologise. They change. Their lives are not the same.

Hazaaron Khwashien Aisi is path breaking cinema in every aspect.There are movies and movies and movies..then comes Hazaron Khwaishein Aisi.Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi..'thousands of desires such as these'. Life is full of desires.We keep on desiring more and more but how much our desires gets fulfilled?

Kay Kay is good as always.Given the screen time he have got he is good in that.His faith..his ideology and to live for a reason makes u think.He is just perfect

Chitrangada Singh playing the central character is even better than a performance what you can call outstanding The way her character shapes up.From a student to a lover and then living for a cause she is simply outstanding. Her performance is totally flawless.And yes she reminds you of Smita Patil.Both in looks and in acting

And now Shiny Ahuja.From a one sided lover to mastermind rich broker and a person who receives the worst fate he is simply 'Incredible'. Your heart will go for him.His unconditional love and the way he helps geeta over and again is simply out of the world. Love should be unconditional..if there are conditions it doesnot remain love.The character of 'Vikram Malhotra' is so much powerful it will left you thinking about him even after movie ends.In the scene in which he says 'I am getting married' and then he starts dancing and the soulful music 'Mohabbat Mein Nai Hai Farq Jeene Aur Marne Ka Usi Ko Dekh Kar Jeete Hai Jis Kaafir Pe Dum Nikle'. The pain,agony and sadness which he delivers through his smile just leaves u speechless

Music is of high standard.Lyrics are so much meaningfull and heart touching

What makes the movie stand out is the subtle way in which the motivations of each of the characters evolve through the story and the delicate and restrained portrayal of their melange of emotions affecting their decisions at different points of time with different political and social contexts. As my favourite movie critic Mayank Shekhar sums up this movie 'It is this most relevant and urgent mirror of our period that makes Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi one of the most significant films of any time. And a film that I think college kids should remember Mishra by. The confrontation between Siddharth and his dad when his dad says 'So u have faith in an ideology that talks about violation and murder of people as a way of changing the system..what gives u that right?'..Simply incredible

Its definitely one of the best films of this decade.Hard-hitting yet so subtle Its a much watch for everyone who loves quality cinema. A thousand desires such as these...left unfulfilled

Finally i would end this review with the incredible lyrics of the song 'Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi'

A thousand desires such as these A thousand moments to set this night on fire Reach out and you can touch them You can touch them with your silences You can reach them with your lust Rivers mountains rain Rain against a torrid hill's cape A thousand A thousand desires such as these

I loved rain as a child As a lost young man Empty landscapes Bleached by a tired sun And then And then Suddenly it came Like a dark unknown women Her eyes scorched my silences Her body wrapped itself around me Like a summer without end

Pause me hold me reach me Where no man has gone Crossing the seven seas With the wings of fire I fly towards nowhere And you Rivers mountains rain Rain against a scorched landscape of pain

A thousand desires such as these A thousand moments to set this night on fire Reach out and you can touch them You can touch them with your silences You can reach them with your lust Rivers mountains rain Rain against the torrid hill's cape A thousand, A thousand desires such as these ...........

We thought emotions(esp. love) were abstract entities but this film makes you think again..

[dkolhapure · 9/10 · 17 August 2006]

Top-notch performances, touching back-ground score and its intense script take 'Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi' to never-before-scaled heights of cinema.Its a movie about believing in something so unconditionally, that you give whatever it takes to stand up for it..even if it is your life.

The film showcases the three selfless lives of free India's first generation in their youth set in the back-drop of Naxalite moment and Emergency.

Shiny Ahuja is dynamic as Vikram.Kay Kay Menon(Siddrath) conveys more through his expressions and tone than this dialogs, once again proving his excellence as an actor.Chitrangada Singh(Geeta) ligths up every frame not only with her flawless beauty but, equally with her deep performance as well.she is simply brilliant. This movie sets the standard for excellence in cinema.A true masterpiece.

A treat of a film

[negimp · 10/10 · 18 April 2005]

A real breath of fresh air in Indian cinema, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi is a very real, earnest, crackling-with-life portrayal of what it (apparently) was like to be a college student in Delhi in the late 60s and 70s with the opposing currents of Marxism and (indira) Gandhian totalitarianism. Intertwined with the ideology and the politics is a love story of three people, who start off with different ideas and whose ideas criss-cross in the course of the film. Superb direction, vibrant cinematography, slick editing, lovely music and superlative performances from all three protagonists make for a thoroughly satisfying cinematic experience. The surprise package is Shiny Ahuja, whose model-boy looks belie a prodigious acting talent. Both Kay Kay Menon and Chitrangda Singh deliver superb performances with Chitrangda looking stunning throughout. People say she looks like Smita Patil, I wouldn't know. While the film is not without its faults, including the occasional stilted dialogues and imprecision in the narrative, the overall effect is good enough to make you forget these. Watch this and get high!!

PS. I also have a quibble with the way 5.1 sound was used quite ineffectively when it could have been much better employed in many scenes. But it's churlish to complain about such things in a treat of a movie!!

Superb is an understatement

[mishu_mausam · 10/10 · 19 April 2006]

I just finished watching this movie. Its a 2003 movie, and this is 2006. Why was I unaware of it when it was released - I don't know! Thanks to a few friends, who brought my attention to the movie.

I am thinking of a suitable adjective for the movie -- 'superb' seems like a huge understatement. The movie is perfect - perfect in all respects. The story has breadth as well as depth. It touches on so many aspects yet one gains something fresh in whichever aspect one focuses on. The narration is honest, brutal, real. All characters are different, standing for their own ideals, consistent with who they are and so very disjoint from who the others are. Not one character does anything that cannot be justified in their context. None of the characters go overboard in their actions, something that is almost inconceivable for anything that comes out off Bollywood. I can go on and on.

But these are not really the things that I noticed while I was watching the movie. All these intellectual appreciations are afterthoughts. As I watched the movie I got intensely involved with the characters, their stories, their lives. Different characters stand for different things - Siddharth wants to contribute to the upliftment of people in the village, he is willing to leave everything and willing to stay in the villages for his cause. Geeta loves Siddharth to the extent that his cause becomes her own. Vikram loves Geeta immensely but knows that she doesn't love him, at the same time his love to her is pure and unconditional. Vikram is very practical, doesn't believe in these high-funda ideologies of changing the world, is ambitious, wants to earn money. (This synopsis really doesn't do justice to the characters)

So where did my involvement come from? : My involvement with Siddharth came from his passion towards his cause. His unconditional faith in his struggle against all odds, standing by his principles. At the same time, my involvement with Geeta came from her taking bold steps: leaving everything when she felt right, returning to the village inspite of a perpetually threat-filled life there, divorcing, and ignoring social pressures, if any. My involvement with Vikram comes from his being truthful to who he is -- a practical normal person, wants to make big in the world, wants fame, etc. At the same time, he is always ready to use his contacts, his earnings for people that he care for, even for people who are cared by people he cares. A genuine person who never gets the love he yearns for but is still mature enough to pursue his one sided love with full honesty.

As I get involved with all these three characters, these undergo lots of changes -- they mature. They all start at college together, life takes different routes with them, they end up at different places. One notices that life is unpredictable, it has the capacity to offer something that is totally unexpected. While life is unpredictable, people themselves are too -- they change. The process of growth of a person never ends, even to the extent that the sole purpose of life changes sometimes.

I know this became more abstract than I intended it to be, so let me focus on some thoughts that struck me while watching the movie. I noticed how much one's context affects who one is: how a rich child is more inclined to take up social issues, as money is not an issue with him, whereas a lower middle class person better earn some money and feed himself and his family well. Also, the brutality of Gandhian principles and altruistic living develops in the child a sheer disrespect for a selfless life, because the child recognises the neglect he/she suffered while the parent was away helping others.

Another interesting observation is that we, humans, tend to leave behind the original reasons for our doing something in the first place. For instance, Geeta continues to work in the village even when Siddharth is no longer there, because she started owning the cause. The cause didn't remain limited to something she is doing for Siddharth.

Somewhat ironical was the fact that Vikram who used to be so disjoint from the whole ideal I-will-change-the-world business, was the one who was most severely affected in the end from the whole process. It was ironical because he wasn't there taking the blows for the cause. He was there taking blows for Siddharth. And he didn't even care for Siddharth so much; he cared for Geeta who cared for Siddharth!

The movie also touches on the Naxalite movement, its original ideology, how there are different factions within the setup etc. It tries to show the movement in a somewhat positive light.

Needless to say that there is a big social commentary on the state of villages (in those days) and to some extent even now, and how people like me living in urban settlements so easily disregard the real issues dealing with them. How we chose to ignore the problems faced by the people there, how we -- relatively more powerful people -- aren't ready to take any stand for them. Even after watching the movie I can't imagine myself leaving the comfortable state of living and stand for this cause, I probably do not have the guts!

Surrealistic India!!

[rekha-r-nair · 10/10 · 24 July 2005]

Today is a generation obsessed with western clothes, western accent, western everything... They tend to forget that they can explore these luxuries ONLY because their homeland is a free nation and a democracy. Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi is meant to be an eye-opener for the youth who have not seen India when she was down and a reminder for the adults of what their generation and their older generations survived.

The movie starts off as a few people just following some ideologies that are very common in the college campuses. But some of them take it too far and decide to live their lives by those ideals while others go and make money and a grand living. Both lives have meanings of their own. The movie very eloquently shows how diverse India is... it shows the cities that are flourishing in wealth and dirty politics; it also shows villages where people die because of poverty or even caste related oppression.

The movie might be perceived in another way too... It could look like the moral is to "Not follow your ideologies if they are for just the well being of others"... but then is that life really worth living?? I think the underlying message was to just follow your vision to completion even if the sacrifices required are humongous.

The casting was perfect. Kay Kay Menon proves to be a very versatile and powerful actor. Inspite of being quite new to movies, he shows a lot of maturity and intelligence in the way he acts. I cannot imagine anyone other than Shiny Ahuja in the role of Vikram. He brings in the "cool" element in the movie. He has the charisma of a fixer-upper guy and also the fiery passion of a man in love with a woman who is in love with someone else. Chitrangada Singh does a terrific portrayal of the girl born and brought up in metros but finally following her ideals (or maybe the ideals of the man she loves). She has a lot of potential to be a powerful character actress.The two songs - title track and 'bawra mann' are really haunting melodies.

I don't think the film was a commercial success... But I definitely vote it as a "must see"... worth every penny! Its nice to see Pritish Nandy putting his money into projects that have some social value...

A Thousand Desires Such That...

[prakash_sj · 10/10 · 8 February 2006]

If you thought that the 60's and the 70's was just about Rock and Roll, drugs, and retro clothes, think again? The 3-R's - Revolution, Rebellion, and Rock n' Roll - dominated most young minds. Rural India was subjugated. Independence was a mere farce (It's a different issue that it still is). Amidst all this chaos, the youth of India were driven towards various Ideologies. But how many of them were serious about the paths they chose? It was a fad during the 60-70's to indulge in drugs, rock n roll and college morchas. Most students entered college politics and turned into rebels, who were against the capitalist values of the society and the government in general. But not everyone was serious. Once their "wonder years" were through, these so-called socialist preachers, born with a silver spoon, backed away in testing times. But, then there were those who took this path seriously to a different level. Those who gave up luxury, and dreams of a "settled" life with wife and kids for the benefit of those Indians who suffered due to the Government's apathy.

Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (HKA) is the story of such turbulent times during the India of the 60's and the 70's. The Emergency, the Naxalite movement, the domination of government in every decision Indians made. It is the story of three people who lead contrasting lives, with contrasting ideologies, and how their lives are intertwined.

If Siddharth (Kay Kay Menon) gives up his luxurious ways to reside in the villages of Bihar and start the Naxalite movement, Geeta (Chitrangada Singh) decides to pursue studies, only to eventually unite with Siddharth and support him in his mission. On the other hand, Vikram (Shiney Ahuja) chooses to be a middleman, or broker, of sorts, fixing dubious deals for the government and the capitalists.

This is a movie about ambitions, of desire, of love, and politics. If Siddharth continues his undying mission to form a strong Naxalite movement; Geeta, in spite of being married to Arun (Arif Zakaria), supports Siddharth from the outside as her lover, and confidante. It is as much about Geeta's own struggle of making the right choice: marriage, ideology, love, and as much about Vikram who, in spite of being a womanizer, continues to love Geeta and willing to go to any extent only to be in Geeta's good books.

HKA is a reminder to the youth of today that there were times when young blood was idealistic and not idle-istic. It is a dark reality, and a bitter truth of the struggle, which many went through during those turbulent times. Maybe the youth should wake up to such calls, and not just work in call-centers, lest we downgrade to a society where we might again be dominated and Independence becomes a facade.

Swansong for unfulfilled dreams

[abhishek-1 · 7/10 · 22 April 2005]

Swansong for unfulfilled dreams!

Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi Dir- Sudhir Mishra Cast- KayKay Menon, Chitrangada Singh, Roshan 'Shiny' Ahuja, Ram Kapoor and Yashpal Sharma. Written by- Sudhir Mishra, Ruchi Narain and Shiv Subramanium. Rating- ***

At the heart of Sudhir Mishra's political chronicle about three individuals during the India of the 70's lies an inherent cry for reform that is valid even in the current age that we live in. 'Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi' then, is not just an account of the Naxal movement that rose, survived, faltered and eventually died in the dictatorial times of Indira Gandhi. As the title rightly suggests, it is about a thousand such dreams that have been left unfulfilled, or soured if realized! Not since Gulzar has a director managed to weave a political story with such assurance.

Siddharth(KayKay Menon) is a young affluent collegian who mulls over the state of affairs with his friends while they dope! Their Gods- Bob Marley, Karl Marx and Che Guevera! Fired with a desire to change things around rather than being dogmatic about the crisis like his earlier generation, he enters the Naxal movement. Joining him on his quest is Geeta(Chitrangada Singh), a woman who has no views of her own but believes that the man she loves must be right! Add to the mix a removed individual who could be an island if he wished! Vikram(Shiny Ahuja) couldn't care less about his country, but is madly in love with Geeta. Destiny takes these individuals on three different routes over the next five years and brings them together again at a time when the country is in turmoil and an Emergency declared. Siddharth is now an active member of the Naxal faction of Bihar, while Geeta is in an unhappy marriage to an IAS officer. Vikram meanwhile has become a 'fixer' and moves in the corridors of power and fame, raising toasts at social dos. Geeta begins an affair with Siddharth and soon accompanies him in his pursuit. As the nation gets chaotic in the following years, Indira Gandhi systematically eliminates all her threats by any means possible and emerges victorious. Siddharth and Geeta are just two of the many sufferers of this clamping down by the government. It is here when Vikram decides to use his influence to rescue his unrequited love, and more importantly- her love!

It is no mean task to include three lives spanning a decade in a script that is merely 120 minutes long. Writers Shiv Subramanium, Ruchi Narain and Mishra himself, do a wonderful job at that. However, one can't be left feeling that the proceedings get too episodic at times. The erratic editing(Catherine D'hoir) doesn't help! Without being construed as a censure, this story is actually suited for a two season series where characters can be allowed to have a development graph and every single incident given enough attention to! But one doubts if in the orgy of saas-bahu serials, any soul will be prepared to spare some time for a serious venture such as this. Let it be!

Mishra doesn't fall into the trap of making 'Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi' into a generic political movie. In fact, the movie doesn't even show us any political leaders of the time. What Mishra does is use the cinematic language of allowing characters to be allegorical references to the whole! Vikram's failed love and his eventual state at the climax is just that- an allegory to what we have been left with. Siddharth's disillusionment also acts as a failure of the whole movement. And amidst all of this, Geeta finds her true voice. Her character assumes shape after going through upheavals of love, hope, disappointment, exploitation and finally comprehension! Much like our country indeed! The recurring haunting track, 'Man yeh bawaraa' aptly captures the mood and ethos, and lingers in you long after you've left the movie.

It is worth noting that nearly the whole film is spoken in the English language. This is the second such experience after Bhansali's 'Black'(although Mishra's film was completed much earlier). Though I do not have anything against the use of English in Hindi films(it is a sign of our times), I can't help wondering whether the preference is out of necessity or simply because these young writers think in English! Also, the fact that we are seduced by Vikram- the blithest character leaves you with a sense of guilt. I'm not sure if Mishra intended that!

But such minor quibbles left aside, 'Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi' is a movie that must be seen by every collegian…but sadly won't! They are too busy following the fads of the Johars and Chopras! And mind you, this movie is not an exercise in history lesson! There are some fine performances that adorn this cinematic jewel. KayKay is as he usually is- competent. In an underwritten character, he manages to do exceptionally well. Chitrangada Singh is eerily similar to the late Smita Patil. She is almost a reincarnate! Her emotional range aside, she is also a true Indian beauty- dark and elegant! Ram Kapoor as her husband leaves a definite impression. Eventually though, it is Shiny Ahuja's performance that rivets you the most. In a virtuoso display of talent, he announces himself to Bollywood. Whether it his cocky smirk, his dormant rage, his hidden anguish or his genuine irritation- Shiny is simply brilliant. Easily one of this year's best performances!

• Abhishek Bandekar

Rating- ***

* Poor ** Average *** Good **** Very Good ***** Excellent

17th April, 2005

An awesome film!

[vilu1979 · 10/10 · 3 February 2006]

I had no clue what the movie was about when I rented it, and I absolutely loved it. Though I felt there were a few oddities when I saw it for the first time, when I watched it for the second and third time, I was able to appreciate the excellent performances by the entire cast, and the awesome script. Especially Shiny Ahuja, who plays Vikram Malhotra to perfection - every single expression on his face throughout the movie was a 100% apt. I also loved the Indian-ness imbued in the settings - the houses, roads, cars, government buildings, sound of birds, Geeta's sarees etc. Made me feel deeply nostalgic. The music adds to the poignancy of the movie, and is used very fittingly, to create a dramatic effect in certain scenes. I highly recommend this movie to all movie buffs, because I think of it as a unique work of art from the Hindi film industry. It's entertaining to those who want light entertainment, provides food for thought to those who are keen on watching films with ideological themes, and is an absolute must-see for die-hard romantics.

A love story par excellence with a riveting music score

[vats-vikrant · 7/10 · 27 May 2005]

When i walked in the hall for this film, I had no idea what's its like and who were the people acting in it. Sometimes life is full of surprises and I guess this was one of it. I am not writing an actual review but my rendition of thoughts the character portrayed in the film. Though the background was 1970's, the story and more importantly the relationships between the three characters was main framework of the film which is beyond time. My interest in the film was least to explore the technical issues or social issues that form the background of the film. What came out to me was the ritualistic attitude of love and how it transforms in a deep understanding between people.

The film shows a triangle of love between three characters which was very different from the one shown in Johars and Chopras chocolate covered candy floss that we get to see routinely. Coming to the story- one pretty girl Geeta (Chitrangada Singh) and two guys - Siddharth (KayKay Menon) and Vikram (Shiny Ahuja). While Geeta is in love with Siddharth, Vikram is in love with Geeta. But the film does not start from here nor does it ends there. Geeta is an educated South Indian urban girl who loves Siddartha for his socialist ideology while Vikram comes from a middle class semi-urban semi-rural Gandhian family who wants to grow in life and does not idealize with the socialist movement. And Siddarth has one point of agenda- socialist movement. As time moves on, the love equation of 3 characters moves with time except for Geeta love for Siddarth and Vikram love for Geeta. As a result their life travels from Delhi to Bihar in peculiar situations each with their own equilibrium. Coming out from an unhappy marriage with an alcoholic IAS officer, Geeta moves to Bihar where she discovers not only her love for Siddarth but also an equal parallel love for the socialist movement. At the same time, Vikram rises in the corridors of power as a deal maker. With sudden declaration of emergency by Indira Gandhi, the situations and backdrop becomes raw and bloody. How each of these characters react in these situations perhaps defines what each of them felt what love was all about? There is a sudden twist at the end of the film which perhaps describes how each of the three characters grows as human beings. It's a life time treat and if you can watch the characters through your heart, you will find this film soul stirring. Another important highlight of this film is the music - beautiful poetry by Pratish Nandy, vocals by Shubha Mudgal, Swanand Kirkire and Shobha Joshi. Some excellent scores are "Hazaron Khwaishen Aisi", based on the famous ghazals by Mirza Ghalib and Swanand Kirkire's "Bavra Mann" which comes as a backdrop at all the significant points of the film taking the audience to even greater heights. A must watch for all the ones who would want to know what love is……..

A thousand wishes such as these , A near perfect cinema

[psanu_in · 9/10 · 3 May 2005]

In India there are only two periods which drove the youth into ideological confrontation , first during the freedom struggle and the second during 70s when the youth could not bear to see the fruits of freedom struggle being frittered away. Now this is where this movie treads.While there has been many movies on the 70s but not many has dealt with the subject as political as this.

To come to the story,this movie deals with 3 characters coming from 3 different backgrounds.Sidharth(K K Menon) coming from an influential and affluent family has seen it all .Fed up of the hypocrisy of elite he desperately wants out. Vikram(Shiny Ahuja) coming from a middle class family is uncomfortable at the elite circle but still wants a way into the circle. The third and central character is British educated south-Indian girl Geeta(Chitrangada singh) who is in the middle in love with Sidhharth but not quite comfortable with his ideology.

The story goes forward with movement of each character in its own line of ideal.The characterizations are superb .The mysterious Vikram always in love with Geeta , Sidhharth the ideologue ,and Geeta a woman torn between love,ideology,the bureaucrat husband are superbly etched. The turmoil of the 70s are almost authentic.

A must watch

A Different Movie from Bollywood Standards.

[srikar2097 · 7/10 · 24 January 2008]

This type of film is a rarity in Bollywood. But what a film ! The plot of the film is set in the mid-1970's in India. It was the period where emergency was declared and several senior Congress politicians were charged with corruption. Hardly any movies were made which will give us a look at India as it was after independence, a young democratic country; most of the movies being made on the freedom struggle. So this movie comes as a breathe of fresh air. It is due to this film that we realize the social, economic problems through the lives of 3 young college graduates.

The direction of this film is intense and very well directed. Director Sudhir Mishra must be given a pat on his back. Although this movie was not a major commercial success, I guess Sudhir must have known this from the start. The fact the he went ahead shows his commitment to good cinema.

This brings us to the actors. All the 3 protagonists in this movie were very good and convincing in their roles. The passion between Geeta (Chitrangada) and Siddharth (Kay-Kay) seemed genuine; so was the pain of Vikram' (Shiny Ahuja) as a heart broken lover. It reflected upon the changing India, who was shedding her inhibitions at the turn of the decade.

One shortcoming is that the film does not explain in detail why the condition are the way they are portrayed in the movie. So after the film the viewer would have just got a whiff of what was present during those times of turbulence, not the reason why.

The music was captivating and is totally in-tune with the sentiments being portrayed.

All in all a different movie and a thinking movie. If you want to let your feet down and relax this might not be the movie, but if you want watch serious meaningful movie this is for you. Kudos to Sudhir Mishra.

pretense without pretensions

[vikasratheee · 1/10 · 29 March 2009]

this is by far one of the most pretentious films i have ever seen. it is a tight slap on the face of some Indians who speak in English and were looking at the mirror. disgusting. the bubble gum version of the 1970s politics of the north Indian plains. the message - the educated English-speaking Indian tried to save the poor beggars of India in all earnestness. it ignores the fact that the poor beggars are also capable of and are saving themselves on their own.

as a love story its okay. the problem is that the love story and character development is based upon a completely fraudulent version of politics.

Very good!

[Sherazade · 8/10 · 12 May 2006]

I would feel so ashamed if it turns out that I don't write that much about this film. I have been sifting through pages and pages of reviews (some people even wrote up to 8 long paragraphs each of reviews) which can only mean that the producers and writers and directors have done their job. A film that can get people talking and writing as much as they have with this one must be a very audacious and very well made one.

At first, I have to admit, I didn't know how I would get through the film, especially when I went into the song menu and there was only one listed. But as soon as the film begins, its intense subject begins to draw you in little by little. It begins in the late 50s when there was a lot of political uprising in India. Three young students namely; Geeta, Vikram and Sidharth are college co-eds as well as budding political activists who spend their days planning their next move, listening to imported rock music from the west and just getting themselves caught up in the same things college students do. Vikram, the not so privileged one of the three, one day takes a trip around various parts of India and documents his discoveries in letters that his sends to Geeta (whom he secretly is in love with) abroad. The friends all hook up once Geeta returns to India from the UK but it is evident that she does not share the same feelings for Vikram. Instead, she is in love with Sidharth and continues to pine after him, despite the obvious fact that he will and would always choose his quests over her. One day, Sidharth decides that he is going to journey into a remote village to live amongst the people and inspire them to stand up against the inequalities and brutalities that they have become accustomed to. His posse all begin to back out of the trip one by one and even Geeta tells him that she will not accompany him. This does not deter Sidharth as his mind is set. On the last night of his stay in the city, his wealthy family throws him a party and Geeta is clearly upset that her lover will be leaving. Vikram tries to comfort her but she allows herself to be lured away by Sidharth who takes her to a deserted room within his fathers mansion and makes love to her. Vikram watches from a window, heartbroken and the next day Sidharth embarks on his journey promising to return in 6 months. Naturally, he does not return but continues to communicate with Geeta via snail mail.

Years pass into the 70s and a chanced business meeting reunites Vikram (now a very wealthy and affluent business man) with Geeta (now married to a NRI drunkard she met while visiting the UK), sparks fly between the two but it is clear the Geeta has returned to India for one reason and that's to seek out Sidharth, which she does and begins to have an affair with him. This sets off a chain of tragic events that forever alters the life of the three friends.

There is a classic-tale of what goes around comes around beautifully woven into the rich fabric of this film. Vikram loves Geeta but she treats him poorly and walks all over his emotions, and Geeta loves Sidharth, who in turns treats her poorly and walks all over her emotions.

This film is a must watch for anyone who appreciates fine cinema, especially those who have lost faith in Bollywood.

A Beautiful Story, Makes u think even after it ends

[fantabulous-58385 · 8/10 · 15 September 2016]

It's a beautiful movie which is different from regular commercial cinema. It portrays the life of three characters - Siddharth,Geeta & Vikram, and how their life evolves over a period of time because of the choices they have made in their lives. The background is set in 1970s and dialogues are mostly in English.The movie has characters which have contrasting life and philosophy as compared to each other and that's what gives us a beautiful view about different people and their life.However,still the movie goes on smoothly and without any friction between any of the characters. Vikram and Siddharth love geeta, and that's how the story began. Most of the decisions are driven out of love. The best and most interesting part of movie is about the characters writing letters to each other and that keeps us update about the thought process of these characters instead of making the audience do the guessing. The movie starts with love, passion about ideology and ends with the tough realities of life that dawns on us when we have gone through it all and the youthful passion which we felt at once dies down.For some as the passion ends,they take a different turn in their life but for others it becomes a reality of their life. I thought, its a once a watch movie but I couldn't help thinking about it even after its over. At the end i feel pity for vikram as he does everything he can do for geeta and unnecessarily gets untangled in the mess geeta has created in her life because of her love for Siddharth. Vikram and Siddharth follows their philosophy of life while Geeta follows her love. Who proves right?, how their story ends?, that's up to u 2 watch and answer it for yourself.

The best movie the modern bollywood have ever produced.

[aniketshisode · 10/10 · 23 February 2020]

This is a must watch movie for everyone who loves classics. Chitrangada is magnificent. Every character and the actors performing them are all fabulous. This is movie is a flow of emotions, a critic of 1970s indian political system and a canvas of Indian elites in 1970s. Don't miss it

A Bollywood movie worth a watch

[jigeeshu23 · 10/10 · 14 July 2016]

I think there are two kinds of people in India that watch Bollywood movies. One (majority) for 2-3 hours of entertainment and the other to feel inspired. This movie is must watch for the later.

Character of Sidhharth (Kay Kay Menon) is that of a man with bold revolutionary ideas but lacking vision (common among the youths). Being born in a privileged family he rightly believes that he must stand for the under privileged. However, his ambitions (Khwaishein) are too radical to realize. Slowly but gradually he finds it overwhelming and eventually he succumbs.

Character of Vikram (Shiny Ahuja) is that of a man born in middle class family. Being aware of his circumstances he rightly chooses the path towards getting rich and becomes successful. However, his real ambition (khwaish) is to see his love for Geeta (Chitrangada Singh) reciprocated.

Character of Geeta is that of a woman who has lived in comfort of big cities. She is open-minded, loving and inexperience. She is cut between both ideologies. But her 'Love' for Sidhharth inclines her toward revolutionary ideologies which repeatedly gets her into trouble. As much as Vikram shows his unconditional love for Geeta by being a helping hand, so does Geeta her love for Sidhharth by going back to him. In the end Geeta and Vikram are seen together while Sidhharth has fled abroad.

It is very deep movie questioning ones conscience. Though it is not a true story, the politics, love drama, emotions and portrayal of people of India in 70s is very close to reality. It is very subtle and the more I watched the movie the more it revealed itself. Acting is top class from everyone, particularly Shiny Ahuja and Chitrangada Singh. Poems recited as film score are master pieces and shakes the entire being within.

Worth watching -yes Masterpiece-no

[AnonymousbutDilpreet002 · 7/10 · 7 March 2020]

Set in a time period from late 60's to early ninetees, when naxalism was at it's peak, Hazaaron Khwaishen aisi(Meaning thousand such desires) is a story about three collage friends with different paths. The time period is not important to the storyline, it's basically about these three only.

One is Vikram, son of an honest congressman from a middle class family. One is Siddarth, who leaves his super rich dad to join the rebillion against the existing government . One is a girl named Geeta. Vikram is secretly in love with Geeta. But Geeta and Siddarth are in love with each. Infact, Geeta joins the movement just for him. As it is clear from the title, Vikram still yearns for him and tries to get her somehow even after she is married to someone else .

Spoiler part

What's good - Vikram, who was never interested in the rebillion comes out to be the one hurted the most from it. Geeta, who joined the rebillion for Siddarth makes it her own interest. And Siddarth, who was dutyful towards villager, leaves the struggle and starts practicing medicine. . Drama is created slowly but story gets better with each passing minute. Though at times, it seems to be lost.

What's not - While watching the film, you never feel anything. I didn't love or hate any of the characters. The story runs just flat. And there are too many subplots which don't serve any purpose but only distract.

This has stunned me!!

[prateekfigo-1 · 8/10 · 17 July 2007]

Well,I've got no words for it!Simply putting it,this movie would surprise you because you haven't even heard of the director Sudhir Mishra(unless you've seen "Chameli"),this movie will shock you because of its realistic storyline shown in a simple yet powerful manner,and it would stun you to the core because of its intensity and the rawness quotient.This was a story that was begging to be told.Despite movies like Vaastav and Kurukshetra,Indian politics was still not depicted as it should have been.This movie has broken all barriers.The performances have everything to write home about.Shiny Ahuja shines among all.Chitrangda Singh proves that a beauty has got brains too,and Kay Kay Menon is the dark-horse of Indian cinema,this performance tells the story.Watch this movie and experience it taking over you.

-A one time watch for sure but not a die hard thing.

[manendra-lodhi · 6/10 · 11 May 2012]

I thought of watching the film after reading somewhere that it was a rare thought provoking film and should have been a Oscar entry in its time. Well they should have sent the film for the Oscar because at least it is something much better than what was sent at that time.

But the film was a disappointing one. I heard that It was some of the very critically acclaimed ones. But i did not feel it so. The film was not able to explain the very essence of what the director wanted to convey all the time. It is true that the film really portrays what actually happens in the real life. But things should have been twisted a little to suit up the situation. The most shocking part for me was when it became clear that after being survived from the police – siddharth –( Kay Kay Menon) left everything and started to learn medicine. I mean what about all the principles. From the starting he was thinking of very great ideas but in the end it became clear that his wife was much more mature than him. Other flaws the the film would include are no character analysis can be done by the viewer – the character of shiny ahuja seems to be a bit of selfish in the beginning but in the end he was the one to suffer the most. That is OK but what was the need of introducing all his marriage with that girl whose name also I do not remember now. Just to lengthen things up, many characters were being put. The father of Vikram – (Shiney ahuja) was on entirely different philosophy which was good to see but nothing was clear as to what their progress was , either they should not have shown at all about him or if intended it should have been much more analysis. The only character that seemed to be very well suited in the role and was impressive was the character of Geetha – (Chitrangada). She seems to be one of those actresses who know how well to suit into a character, like in "yeh saali zindagi". It was a relief to see him doing her part properly. Kay Kay Menon was impressive as usual.

Almost Flawless!

[himdesai · 8/10 · 4 August 2011]

Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi is a hard - hitting saga of love,politics,rebellion youths. Rebellion for life , love and country. The movie challenges you to handle all of it in a span of two hours. And believe me, after two hours you feel something worth of your good time.

The theme of movie is very clear and apt to the title. And the title , for which i would rate it a perfect ten is an adaption from Ghalib's couplet.

Shiny Ahuja is apt here making balances from underplaying role as a lover and an aggressive businessman.Kay Kay Menon is in top form here.The actress Chitrangadha Singh is the modern Smita Patil in true sense.

Ram Kapoor,Saurabh Shukla,Dibyendu Bhattacharya and Yashpal Sharma are notable.

The story by Sudhir Mishra,Ruchi Narain and Shiv Kumar Subramaniam is a sheer gem.To include so many sub-plots one needs to be a prolific writer. And the writer's desk is of top notch here.Even the plot of the movie is so powerful and appealing itself.

The editing by Catherine D'Hoir(who is good at sound department in Hollywood) is tight and strong.The film is engaging right from the beginning till the end.Cinematography is a pleasure. Contrasts of urban and rural India are well shot.

Probably the only area where the film drops back.Apart from classical songs like Man Baawra and Baawraa Man Shantanu Moitra fails to captivate ears.Background Score is okay.

The movie is surely one of the best we have ever seen from Sudhir Mishra's bag.

Insight into the Naxalite period...

[planktonrules · 7/10 · 14 November 2013]

I rented this film from Netflix and when it began, I was annoyed to see that it was from Eros Video! I hate their releases because they do something I've seen no other DVD company do--they cram commercials onto the DVD when it starts up AND when you finally get to the main menu to start the film, a whole bunch of others follow--ones the DVD won't let you skip! In addition, a giant 'Eros' is plastered in the left corner of every scene in the movie. It's a shame they produce so many great Indian DVDs, otherwise I'd not even bother with these jerks. Now that I am done with my rant, on to my review:

As a westerner, much of what happens in the film is about a period we now nothing about and should. Much of the film is about the Naxalite Movement. The Naxalites were communists but not the traditional Marxist-Leninists but revolutionary Maoists--bent on destroying society with bloodshed. Although the film makes the movement seem more benign, these were not benign people. At the same time, the government in power seemed to have little interest in inequity and the lives of the dirt-poor--so you could understand why the Naxalite Movement gained supporters. And, as the film progresses, the government become more reactionary--beating and killing Naxalites or anyone suspected of leftist sympathies. It's really hard to support either--both were committed to violence. Thank God India got through this period.

The film begins in 1969 at a university--a hotbed of the Naxalites. Many students coming from very privileged lives are pushing for great social change. As the film progresses, many give up the movement and become the bourgeois--the middle classes and the rich. Others, such as Siddharth, remain committed to the movement and spend their lives among the rural poor--teaching them about revolution and planning. Geeta Rao loves Siddharth but she also loves Vikram--a guy who was in the movement but who is out to make money and a name for himself. She also is married--but to a third man. Eventually, when Siddharth returns to visit her after spending years in the country, she falls for him and abandons her husband--joining Siddharth in his class struggle. As for Vikram, he's an odd one--making money but at the same time financially supporting the Naxalites. What's to become of these folks? See the film.

The style of this film is very, very different from the other Indian films I have seen. While I am very far from being an expert, I have seen quite a few Indian films compared to other Americans. This one did not have the usual song and dance numbers you'd find in many other films and the film's language is far, far cruder than you'd normally see in a Bollywood production. In the US, despite no nudity, this one probably would have been given an R rating.

Although the history teacher in me noticed that the hairstyle and fashions in general were not true to the period, this is not a big deal and the average viewer won't really care. My biggest problem with the film is the romanticized view of the Naxalites. Although how the government treated them was criminal, you wonder what these revolutionaries would have done had they ever gained power. It almost certainly would have been a bloodbath like they had in China. I have no problem with the Left or the Right--but extremes are scary and not romantic. Despite this, the film is well made and lacks the formulaic qualities you often find in Indian cinema and is a nice change of pace.

Dull and pretentious

[tuula-1 · 1/10 · 18 June 2005]

This film is supposedly about three young idealistic people, two of whom join the Naxalite movement and blah blah. It is really just another film about some beautiful, rich people trying to decide who they should bed next; the peasants and naxalites and the political struggles of the era merely serve as a picturesque backdrop. Literally, as we don't hear the villagers say a word, never mind learn anyone's name, thus they occupy the same 'role' as the 'natives' in old Hollywood films. The movie is also dull, and the story does not actually get us anywhere - except to various bedrooms. We are apparently supposed to admire the artsiness of it all, which merely means no good song and dance routine, which would not have saved the film of course, but might have at least alleviated the boredom.

My friend Japna was annoyed at the immorality of the whole story, not the bedroom bit but the whole pointlessness of the story. The message seems to be that ideals are not worth pursuing.

Best film in recent times

[pradeep-kumar-karavadi · 9/10 · 17 June 2006]

Simply Mindblowing. After a long long time....or ....maybe never did I watch such homogeneously balanced political, realistic and romantic movie. The attention to detail for every part of the film demands laurels to the director - Sudir Mishar. Sudhir is successful in drafting a nearly perfect script, casting the perfect actors and executing it almost flawlessly in the backdrop of 70s Indian politics. What I wonder is how did he pull off filming two contrasting backdrops - one high cultured money minting society and the grass root level rural Bihar with such honesty. Had he compromised with the profanities used in the script....it would have not had that impact.

All the actors did a perfect job. The settings were very realistic, especially the bihar locations reminded me of my stay in UP during my graduation. That typical bhojpuri accent and the hard fact that, people there are literally 5000 years backward was depicted excellently. Anyone who has lived either in Bihar or UP would relate themselves to at least one incident shown in this movie.

On the other hand the high class Indian society is given equivalently good flair. The background music only adds to its royalty. Reference of Che Guevera, JimmiHendrix....only made the movie look more realistic. The hidden shocks of the Emergency of 70s was shown very well (I don't remember any Indian movie dealing this issue as boldly as this).

The contrasting characters of Kay Kay and Shiny clearly depicted the two diametric opposite views of Indian youth. A very good debating subject and a classic piece of art which makes the views think about the real problems of India. A must see if I may recommend.

Tremendous Movie

[wwwumong · 8/10 · 28 June 2021]

Triangle Love Story At It Best. Shiney Ahuja What An Actor. And background Score Was Outstanding.