Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) is not just a film; it is a journey into the life of a woman who transforms from a victim of exploitation to a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and leadership. Adapted from S. Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai, the film brings to life the story of Gangubai Harjeevandas, better known as Gangubai Kathiawadi, a woman who fought for the rights of sex workers and the marginalized in Mumbai’s infamous red-light district, Kamathipura.

A Woman’s Struggle for Power and Dignity

The film opens with a young Ganga, portrayed by Alia Bhatt, an innocent girl from Kathiawad who dreams of becoming a Bollywood star. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she is betrayed by her lover, sold into prostitution, and thrust into the brutal world of Kamathipura. Bhansali’s direction captures the sense of helplessness and betrayal, evoking empathy for Ganga, who later adopts the name Gangubai

What makes Gangubai Kathiawadi compelling is not just the portrayal of a woman’s struggle, but her evolution from a victim to a powerful matriarch of Kamathipura. The film portrays her fight to secure dignity and rights for sex workers, showing her complex relationship with power. Gangubai is not a conventional hero; she rises to power in an unconventional way, using her influence and intelligence to build respect in a society that looks down upon her and the women around her.

Alia Bhatt’s Commanding Performance

 Alia Bhatt’s portrayal of Gangubai is nothing short of remarkable. Known for her roles in films like Raazi and Gully Boy, Bhatt takes on a character that demands a blend of vulnerability and commanding presence.  She breathes life into Gangubai, delivering an emotionally charged performance that highlights both her strength and fragility.       

 One of the film’s most powerful scenes is her speech advocating for the legalization of prostitution, where she argues that sex workers deserve basic human rights. It’s a bold moment that encapsulates Gangubai’s transformation into a leader of the voiceless.

Bhansali’s Signature Style

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for his grand, opulent filmmaking style, and Gangubai Kathiawadi is no exception. The film’s aesthetic is a visual feast—reminiscent of Bhansali’s previous films like Devdas and Bajirao Mastani—with elaborate sets, detailed period costumes, and a saturated color palette. Kamathipura, though dark and grim in reality, is rendered with a certain allure in Bhansali’s hands, making it feel like a character in itself.

The director also masterfully weaves in classical Indian music, creating moments of emotional depth through musical sequences that resonate with the narrative. The song "Dholida" stands out as a celebratory moment for Gangubai, a symbol of her acceptance of her identity.

Social Commentary

At its core, Gangubai Kathiawadi raises pertinent questions about gender, exploitation, and societal hypocrisy. The film is not just about one woman’s rise to power; it reflects the larger struggles of sex workers in India. Bhansali paints a portrait of a society that ostracizes these women, yet relies on them for its own survival. Through Gangubai’s story, the film urges viewers to re-examine their attitudes toward sex work, presenting a nuanced perspective that blends empathy with harsh reality.

The film also explores the intersections of caste, class, and gender in a male-dominated world. Despite being oppressed and forced into prostitution, Gangubai fights for justice and dignity for herself and others, navigating a world where power is usually held by men.

The Complexity of Morality

One of the film’s most intriguing aspects is its exploration of moral complexity. Gangubai is not a conventional hero, and the film doesn’t attempt to portray her as one. She gains power through unconventional means, engaging with political leaders, the mafia, and the media. Her rise is intertwined with the criminal underworld, yet her ultimate aim is to uplift those like her who have been wronged by society.

This moral ambiguity challenges the viewer to think deeply about the nature of power and leadership. Can Gangubai truly be judged for the choices she makes, given the world she was forced into? The film leaves this question open-ended, allowing the audience to engage with the complexity of her character.

 A Story of Strength 

Gangubai Kathiawadi is more than just a biopic; it is a film that celebrates the resilience and strength of women who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s direction, combined with Alia Bhatt’s compelling performance, creates a cinematic experience that is both emotionally gripping and visually stunning.

At its heart, Gangubai Kathiawadi is a story of survival, resistance, and empowerment. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest corners of society, there are those who rise above and fight for dignity and justice. Gangubai’s legacy, as portrayed in the film, is a testament to the power of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.