New Delhi [India], September 25: The Peshwa dynasty is celebrated in the upcoming Marathi ancient drama, Phullwanti, set to release in 2024. Directed by Snehal Pravin Tarde in her debut, the film draws inspiration from Padma Vibhushan Babasaheb Purandare’s work, transporting audiences to 18th-century Pune.

Phullwanti, available on ZEE5, narrates the clash between academic rigidity and artistic freedom. Prajakta Mali stars as Phullwanti, a pan-Indian celebrity known for her captivating Lavani performances, which subhedars desire as dowry. Her art blends sensuality with spirituality, invoking devotion through intricate footwork and ghungroo sounds. The narrative escalates when Phullwanti performs a tribute to Goddess Saptashringi at the Peshwa’s court, provoking a response from Venkat Vishnu Shastri, portrayed by Gashmeer Mahajani. Shastri, a strict scholar, dismisses her performance as inappropriate, igniting Phullwanti’s anger and leading her to challenge him to a dance-off for justice.

The film’s production design by Nitin Sagar recreates the grandeur of Shaniwarwada, rivaling the works of renowned director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Cinematographer Mangesh K. Joshi captures the essence of Pune’s monsoons and marigold-strewn ghats, while costumes reflect the period’s elegance. However, some dance sequences face criticism due to rapid editing and minor inaccuracies in traditional music, which may disappoint purists.

The soundtrack, composed by Aditya Bedekar, elevates the film’s musicality. Songs like “Phullwanti Chi Katha” and “Lavani Lavani” blend narrative poetry with vibrant rhythms, performed by notable artists such as Bela Sulge and Hrishikesh Ranade. The music has received accolades at the Maharashtra State Awards, showcasing Lavani’s evolution from folk to classical art. Mali’s rendition of devotional songs pays tribute to historical devadasis, merging the roles of priestess and performer.

Performance-wise, Prajakta Mali embodies the complexity of Phullwanti, showcasing her fierce yet vulnerable nature. Gashmeer Mahajani’s portrayal of Shastri adds depth, reflecting societal changes through his character’s transformation from disdain to reverence. Lakshmi, played by Tarde, serves as an emotional anchor, subtly challenging patriarchal norms. The ensemble cast’s chemistry enhances the narrative, particularly in their courtly interactions.

Thematically, Phullwanti delves into the significance of art within a ceremonial society, addressing biases against female artists in the 18th century and today. It promotes Lavani as a medium for philosophical expression, highlighting the coexistence of courtesans and bhakti poets during the Peshwa era, echoing Purandare’s literary themes. Feminist undertones are evident, with Lakshmi’s influence humanizing Shastri and Phullwanti’s agency resisting commodification, emphasizing women’s vital roles in societal transformation. The film resonates with contemporary discussions on cultural preservation amid commercialization, advocating for respect towards native arts like Lavani against Bollywood’s glamour.

Produced by Panorama Studios and Shivoham Creations, with guidance from Kumar Mangat Pathak and Prajakta Mali, Phullwanti overcomes financial challenges to deliver a remarkable cinematic experience, marking a significant achievement for regional cinema.

Viewer reactions highlight Phullwanti as a “visual spectacle” with an engaging storyline and emotional depth. Critics note some rushed climaxes and underdeveloped backstories, yet the film’s essence, rooted in Purandare’s narrative, remains strong. Audience reviews on IMDb reflect sentiments like “A musical treat… justice to the novel,” emphasizing character development.

Phullwanti stands as a testament to the dignity of art, transcending mere historical drama. Tarde’s work reminds viewers that true artistry, whether through poetry or dance, resonates from the soul. The film promises to be a must-watch for Marathi cinema enthusiasts, solidifying 2024 as a promising year for the industry and showcasing the global appeal of regional storytelling.