Laapataa Ladies : Lost in Tradition
The world often swallows lies whole yet chokes on simple truths.
Lost in Tradition:
Throughout the film, we witness the challenges faced by characters like Phool and Jaya, who grapple with the limitations imposed upon them by tradition and patriarchy. Phool's lack of education and agency, contrasted with Jaya's thwarted aspirations, mirror the varied ways in which women navigate their roles and identities within society.
The film opens with a hilarious case of mistaken identities. Two brides, Phool Kumari and Jaya, both hidden beneath identical red chunris, find themselves in the wrong places. This comedic premise hinges on the invisibility created by the ghoonghat. For Phool, desperately searching for her husband's village, the veil becomes a barrier – she cannot even recall the village name. On the other hand, Jaya uses the ghoonghat to hide a secret we gradually learn about.
However, Rao cleverly uses this physical barrier to expose a deeper societal issue. The ghoonghat symbolises the facelessness expected from women. Goswami, the writer, points out that this invisibility exists regardless of the veil. Women are expected to conform to various roles: daughter, sister, wife, and mother – all of which can demand a certain level of self-effacement.
The Re-View:
The review evokes personal memories of women shrouded in veils, a "pernicious tradition" still prevalent. It extends an invitation to witness a masterclass in navigating patriarchy firsthand. We see how women, historically, learned to operate within this system. The ghoonghat became a tool for "adjustment," offering a sliver of freedom depending on whom they were facing – a complete veil for the elder male figures, a slight lift for the younger ones.
The film unveils a world where societal expectations can be as opaque as the veils themselves. The pardhah, a system meant for piety, becomes a mask that obscures identity. This disconnect is highlighted with a touch of humour – a Muslim man criticising the very practice while his veiled wife silently serves him tea. The image is powerful, exposing the hypocrisy that can lurk within tradition itself. The pardhah becomes more than just a veil; it symbolises the limitations placed on women, hindering them from expressing their unique identities and aspirations. It is a powerful image - a commentary on the hypocrisy that can shroud tradition.
Art, a universal language, is deemed frivolous in this world. It is not a "household chore," highlighting the undervaluing of creativity and self-expression. The film suggests that a life confined to domestic duties is half-lived.
Takeaways:
"Laapataa Ladies" offers a complex take on empowerment through the character of Manju Maii. This strong woman runs her shop and extends a helping hand to those in need, employing Phool and the orphan Chotu. She empowers Phool by teaching her how to use her cooking skills to run a successful canteen, fostering self-sufficiency in the young woman.
However, the film cleverly portrays a paradox within Manju Maii's character. While demonstrably empowered, she seems to have sacrificed personal joy. When Phool offers her a sweet treat, Manju Maii refuses, stating there is "no good occasion in her life" for such indulgence. This suggests that her focus on being a strong, independent woman may have come at the cost of experiencing simple pleasures.
The film's brilliance lies in its redemption arc for Manju Maii. By the end, when she helps a transformed Phool reunite with her husband, she finally allows herself to savour the sweet. This act symbolises her newfound appreciation for the joy that comes from witnessing the happiness of others. Perhaps by helping Phool reclaim her life, Manju Maii rediscovers a dimension of empowerment beyond material success.
"Laapataa Ladies" does not just show the limitations of the ghoonghat; it showcases the resilience of the women who wear it.
Lost in Patriarchy—Phool was a young woman raised for domesticity, who did not even know the name of the village she was destined to spend her life in. Her education was limited to household chores, a stark reminder of the limitations placed on women. This, juxtaposed with Jaya, a bright woman forced into marriage instead of pursuing her dream of studying agriculture; shows the stark contrasts as well as (ironically) the sheer similarities between the two situations. The pressure to conform to societal expectations is palpable, even threatening — something very evident with instances like Jaya's mother's suicide threat.
"Laapataa Ladies" is more than just a case of mistaken brides. It is a story of women navigating a world that often tries to define them. Through their journeys of self-discovery, the film encourages us to question the norms that confine women and celebrate their resilience in the face of adversity.
Relatability:
The film resonates deeply with the shared experiences and struggles of many women in today’s scenario as well. The exploration of the ghoonghat and its symbolic significance serves as a reflection of the societal pressures and expectations placed upon women; still highlight the scenario of many parts of the country.
The character of Manju Maii embodies the resilience and determination often required for women to succeed in a world that undervalues their contributions. Her journey serves as a source of inspiration, reminding us of the strength inherent in women who strive to carve out their own paths.
"Laapataa Ladies" ultimately encourages women to challenge societal norms and celebrate their unique identities and aspirations. It highlights the importance of solidarity and empowerment in the face of adversity and proves to us that no matter what our challenge- our resilience is what will get us thriving; no matter the gender.
