In a reverential tribute to the visionary social reformers of the 19th century, the newly released poster for the upcoming film ‘Phule’ captures the essence of an era poised on the cusp of transformation. Lead actors Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa encapsulate the determination and forward gaze of Mahatma Jyotirao Govindrao Phule and his wife, Dnyanajyoti Savitribai Phule, whose efforts inaugurated the beginning of the educational revolution in India.
The poster, which was unveiled on the birth anniversary of Jyotirao Phule, presents the actors portraying the couple as they look towards the horizon, an apt metaphor representing the dawn of progress and the challenging of archaic societal norms. The film promises to highlight their inspirational story, focusing on their steadfast fight against caste and gender discrimination—an issue that resonates with the present times as much as it did during their lives.
Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, the National Award-winning director of the film, is set on using the biopic as a medium to open a dialogue about the social evils that stubbornly persist in contemporary society. In a statement, he conveyed his intent to reignite discussions on these urgent issues. “Mahatma and Jyotiba Phule fought against caste and gender discrimination, which unfortunately persists even today. I aim to reignite conversations about these pressing issues that demand our attention,” said Mahadevan, underlining the continued relevance of the Phules’ legacy.
The unveiling of the poster also coincided with a national occasion. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the anniversary of Jyotirao Phule, acknowledging the social reformer’s relentless campaign for education and empowerment of women. Taking to social media, the Prime Minister underscored the Phules’ profound impact and reiterated a resolve to fulfill their vision. “His relentless efforts in the field of education and women empowerment have left an indelible mark on society. Today is an occasion to reiterate our commitment to fulfilling his vision to empower the poor and marginalized,” PM Modi’s heartfelt message read.
The significance of Phule’s work is not lost in contemporary political discourse, with government leaders affirming commitments to continue the trajectory of empowerment laid out by such extraordinary figures of social change.
On the film front, Patralekhaa expressed her homage by sharing the moving poster on her Instagram account, captioning it as a heartfelt tribute to “India’s First Mahatma #JyotiraoPhule.”
Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, through their upcoming roles in this biopic, are set to bring to life the stirring narrative of Jyotirao Phule and his wife, Savitribai. The couple, facing intense societal pushback, pioneered the cause for equal rights and educational opportunities, leading to the founding of India’s first girls’ school in Pune—a historic stride towards gender equality.
As audiences eagerly await its release, the film, produced by a talented group comprising Pranay Chokshi, Jagdish Patel, Anuya Chauhan Kudecha, Ritesh Kudecha, and Suunil Jaiin, carries immense potential to inspire and foster societal introspection. Though the release date remains under wraps, the anticipation among moviegoers and activists alike is palpable.
In recalling the contributions of such influential figures through cinema, ‘Phule’ is an attempt to cherish and perpetuate the ideals of individuals who dared to envision a more equitable world. The undimmed interest in their story is a testament to the enduring need for dialogue and action on social justice, as relevant today as it was during their lives.
