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Storylineò
'Devrai'
is a sacred grove where diverse nature is given protection under
the umbrella of faith, with the realization that each and every
part of nature is sacred in this fabric of creation. In today's
chaotic world we need to learn from this wisdom and create a space
for every mind to realize its potential without judging, discriminating
or condemning. 'Devrai' is 'manaroopadarshan' the mind incarnate.
From
the acclaimed directorial team behind 'Doghi' and 'Vaastupurush',
Sumitra Bhave and Sunil Sukthankar comes 'Devrai', the film. The
story of Sheshshahi (Atul Kulkarni), a neglected victim of schizophrenia
whose past unfolds as the fragments of memories of his close ones
are put together. We enter into his mind and travel with him into
the unknown world of broken reality. Then begins the process of
his recovery. His own struggle from within and the struggle and
compassion of his caregivers once again give meaning to his life.
Atul
Kulkarni delivers an incredible performance leading a powerhouse
cast in a film that will touch your heart.
Plot Outline:
This
is the story of Shesh, who is a schizophrenia patient and completely
obssessed by 'Devrai'. So much so that his mind renders a whole
'Devrai' for him with mango trees and creepers anywhere, anytime.
We in fact get inside his mind and can see his imagination. The
plot moves along the path of Shesh's recovery assisted by his sister's
utmost care and his own inner will to be sane.
The
film has layers and conveys it's message subtly so that the audience
do not feel force-fed by the director. This film does that and more.
It
tries to help people in understanding the idea that mental diseases
like schizophrenia are very similar to physical ones in the fact
that they are curable and are caused by inconsistencies in the body.
And
of course there is the message to save the environment.
The
cinematography is impressive. In the scenes of Shesh's virtual world
tha camera moves around chaotically. The camera goes down and gives
a snake eye view, which reinforces the oneness that Shesh shares
with Devrai.
All artistes have played their parts brilliantly! Atul Kulkarni
as Shesh delivers a bravura performance which has already won him
the Nerolac Technical Excellence Award at the Kerala International
Film Festival in international competition against 15 films! Sonali
Kulkarni has done a good job overall as has Tushar Dalvi as he gradually
moves from the 'irritated with brother in law's behaviour' to empathising
with him.
10 Reasons you must see 'Devrai'
| 1. |
'Devrai'
is not your run-of-the-mill Marathi film. 'Devrai' is a must
see Indian film.
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| 2. |
'Devrai' had Atul Kulkarni winning awards against international
competition for his outstanding performance in the film -
Special Jury Award and Technical Excellence Award.
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| 3. |
'Devrai'
swept the Star Screen Awards by winning all four awards in
the Marathi section - Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor
and Best Actress. 'Devrai' also won the Best Story and Best
Actor awards at the Alpha Gaurav awards, and was nominated
for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Cinematography.
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| 4. |
'Devrai' comes to you from the international award winning
director duo - Sumitra Bhave and Sunil Sukthankar.
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| 5. |
'Devrai'
has a powerhouse cast lead by Atul Kulkarni, Sonali Kulkarni,
Dr. Mohan Agashe, Tushar Dalvi, Renuka Daftardar and others.
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| 6. |
'Devrai'
has been highly praised by both Marathi and non-Marathi press.
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| 7. |
'Devrai' is counted amongst 'gems from Marathi cinema'. (BW
issue dated 28/2/3005)
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| 8. |
'Devrai'
is an entertaining human drama demystifying schizophrenia.
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| 9. |
'Devrai'
release proceeds go to the Schizophrenia Awareness Association,
a trust that is ceaselessly working towards eradicating misconceptions
regarding the illness and creating support groups for patients
with day care centers and special training.
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| 10. |
'Devrai'
is being released with English subtitled prints in selected
theatres.
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