Dozakh In Search of Heaven - Movie Review

Hindu-Muslim controversies have always been a burning issue. It's indeed a very sensitive topic of discussion as just a slight mistake can call for riot situations. Amidst all this, there are many people who try to clear this stigma either with their writings or their art work. Among the many few Zaigham Imam's 'Dozakh In Search of Heaven' is a bold step towards dismissing the myth that Hindus and Muslims can't be united.

Dozakh In Search of Heaven is a story about a small boy Janu whose father is a maulvi i.e. a Muslim religious scholar. In spite of being born in a Muslim family Janu has his inclination towards Hindu religion. His curiosity to explore the depths about Hindu religion forms the base of the movie.

Garrick Chaudhary plays the protagonist of the movie Janu; an innocent boy who knows nothing about the Hindu Muslim rivalry. Even after being born into an Islamic family, he has his strong interest in gaining knowledge about the Hindu religion. He is good friends with a pandit of the temple and would seek information from him about the religion, would take part in Ramleela and also haves the prasad of the temple. Innocence that is expected of a child is indeed portrayed well by Garrick Chaudhary. His curiosity and strong faith for Hinduism is what grabs the attention of the audience and keeps them glued to their seats. Though all his scenes are in the flashback, it still forms an important part of the story.

Lalit Mohan Tiwari plays the role of Maulvi Sahab who is Garrick's father. He shares the maximum screen space and has done a very good job in indulging the audience in the story. A brilliant performance is executed by him when it comes to expressing his emotions and his inner conflict to choose between his religion and his son. His character is justified completely when it comes to selecting his son above his religion.

Aman Pant has done a great work in combining two distinct music scores i.e. of the chants of an aarti and that of an azaan. Use of the ambient sound in many parts gives a touch of originality and the essence of nature to the scene. Background score is perfectly in synchronization with the story. Songs comprise of very beautiful and meaningful lyrics. Flashback scenes do break the link at many points but then the religious tension that is built up covers the flaw. Zaigham Imam has done a commendable job in giving a perfect climax that justifies the title of the movie.

All in all, the movie leaves a strong impact on the minds of the audience and generates a positive thought process about a much negatively discussed issue. It's a simple yet a classy movie, for the audience who appreciates the story line of a movie, rather than its entertainment factor.

Priyanka Chauhan