"Sthal" movie review: A sharp critique of traditional matchmaking practices in rural India

"Sthal" is a film that critiques traditional matchmaking practices in rural India. Director Jayant Somalkar explores the patriarchal roots of the process and the social pressures that lead to humiliating experiences for women. The film follows protagonist Savita, a college student who rebels against societal expectations and seeks freedom. The movie deconstructs cultural norms and has a perceptive, witty tone, drawing comparisons to "Lapaata Ladies." Set in Vidharbha, the film highlights the struggles of cotton farmers and the treatment of women in society.

In the heart of rural Maharashtra, director Jayant Somalkar's film "Sthal" offers a poignant critique of traditional matchmaking practices and the patriarchal roots that underpin them. The film, which won the NETPPC Award for the Best Asian Film at the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) [1], follows the journey of Savita (Nandini Chikte), a college student who defies societal expectations and seeks freedom from the shackles of arranged marriages.

Set against the backdrop of the Vidharbha region, where cotton farmers struggle to make ends meet [2], "Sthal" deconstructs cultural norms and sheds light on the humiliating experiences women face in the name of matchmaking. The film begins with a group of young women questioning a male suitor, challenging the notion of traditional gender roles and patriarchal expectations. However, Savita soon realizes that such utopian occurrences are rare in the real world.

As a final-year BA student living with her parents and elder brother, Savita dreams of completing her education and securing a government job. However, her parents prioritize finding a suitable husband for her, subjecting her to the degrading process of being paraded in front of potential suitors and answering their inane questions. Savita's dark complexion, short stature, and status as the daughter of a poor cotton farmer further compound her struggles, leading to one rejection after another.

Somalkar's directorial debut is a powerful and biting critique of the tradition of arranged marriages in rural Maharashtra. The film's witty tone and perceptive comparisons to "Lapaata Ladies" [1] make it a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of Indian society.

References:

[1] Upperstall. (2023, September 13). Sthal film review: A powerful, biting critique on arranged marriages in rural Maharashtra. Retrieved September 24, 2023, from https://upperstall.com/film/sthal/

[2] BookMyShow. (n.d.). Sthal movie ticket booking. Retrieved September 24, 2023, from https://in.bookmyshow.com/movies/sthal/ET00431467