Ruchira reviews “Aachari Baa,” which explores a mother’s resilience and self-discovery after her son’s neglect, finding community and independence through her pickle business, exclusively for Different Truths.
It is a pleasant coincidence that many feminist or women-centric films have recently been uploaded to OTT platforms.
The latest flick to join this bandwagon is “Aachari Baa.” Directed by Hardik Gajjar, this straightforward film focuses on contemporary themes such as women’s emancipation, filial ingratitude, selfishness, and the loneliness of an elderly parent.
The story unfolds as follows: Jaishnavi (played by Neena Gupta) is a 65-year-old woman who makes a living by preparing and selling pickles in a small town in Gujarat. She is depicted as confident and financially secure (surely a blessing). She shares a close relationship with her co-workers, who are like family to her.
Sour Relationship
It has been over a decade since she last saw her son, Ketan (portrayed by Vatsal Seth), who now lives with his wife and a ten-year-old son in Mumbai. It is as clear as daylight that the mother-son relationship has become sour in the past, but the film does not delve into this.
Jaishnavi is over the moon when her son suddenly invites her to stay at his home in Mumbai. She even begins to dream of relocating to a “Big City”. However, upon her arrival, she is taken aback to learn that the family is leaving for a vacation in Darjeeling, leaving her to take care of their pet dog, Jenny.
She is cut to the quick to discover her son’s nefarious plans but chooses not to react. Initially, she is a bit startled but gradually develops a bond with Jenny and the other residents of the housing society. When she mistakenly feeds Jenny’s self-made pickles and chocolate, which I would describe as foolish and insensitive, but let’s overlook that. The society’s secretary, Brijesh Malhotra (played by Kabir Bedi), steps in to help her find a vet, and the crisis is resolved.
Community Support
As the community of residents discovers Jaishnavi’s talent for making pickles, they come together to support her, helping to sell her products and establish her brand in the market. The affectionate and enthusiastic children of society, after a good deal of brainstorming, came up with the brand name ‘Aachari Baa’ for the pickles.
The lady also develops a bond with Malhotra, a widower with no family, who saves a sprightly granddaughter who adores Jaishnavi and vice versa.
When her family returns after holidaying, they are amazed to witness Jaishnavi’s transformation and the prevailing atmosphere of camaraderie. However, Jaishnavi takes a firm stand to teach her son a lesson. Despite earnest pleas from her kin and her little grandson, she packs her bags and returns to her home, where she truly belongs. In a heartwarming conclusion, her loyal companion, Jenny, accompanies her back home.
It would be apt to conclude that Aachari Baa is a heartfelt celebration of self-discovery, second chances, and the quiet strength of those low-profile individuals who deserve recognition. It is indeed a warm and inspiring tale about self-worth and the resilience of those we often tend to overlook. Viewed from another angle, it is a poignant tale about longing and finding unexpected companionship and lasting bonds in relationships.
Photos from IMBd
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