Rajkumar Hirani, the man who forged the most surreal oeuvre of cinematic excellence with merely five films to his name, made his debut in the year 2004 with Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. The filmmaker has introduced a generation of Indians to Gandhigiri through his films, starting from Munna Bhai MBBS, Lage Raho Munna Bhai and many more.
Rajkumar Hirani’s ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai’ stands as a classic example of how you can marry the ideals of Gandhi with commercial success. The filmmaker has indeed made a significant impact with his films, introducing the concept of ‘Gandhigiri’ to a whole generation of Indians. Through movies like ‘Munna Bhai MBBS’ and ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai,’ Hirani skillfully combines the ideals of Gandhi with commercial success. His films not only entertain but also subtly convey the philosophies of Gandhi to a new generation.
Hirani’s ability to seamlessly integrate socio-political commentary into Bollywood entertainment, leaving audiences with memorable moments and thought-provoking lines is incredible. His ability to deliver powerful messages without being preachy is truly commendable and reminds us of the enduring relevance of Gandhism in our society.
As the film taught us Gandhian values via humour, we learnt to laugh with (not at) the Father of the Nation, who himself possessed a sly sense of humour. Furthermore, it proved beyond doubt how we didn’t always have to view him in holier-than-holy hues, and at the same time, not marginalising his relevance either.
Hirani’s ability is to make a socio-political comment working within the tenets of a Bollywood entertainer. His films deliver a message but never hammer it in. Motifs and memorable lines are a given in Raju Hirani style — ‘jadoo ki jhappi’ to ‘All is well’ to ‘wrong number’.
Hirani’s films have been deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophies. From ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai’ to ‘PK,’ Hirani beautifully weaves Gandhi’s principles of truth, non-violence, and compassion into his storytelling. Through his characters, Hirani showcases the power of these ideals in shaping a better society. Gandhi’s teachings resonate with audiences and remind us of the importance of empathy and righteousness.
On the other hand, we are now eagerly awaiting the filmmaker’s next, ‘Dunki’, which is all set to hit the screens on Christmas this year, starring Shah Rukh Khan.
