Starring Abhishek Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Saiyami Kher, Angad Bedi, and Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, under the direction of R Balki, the enchantment of “Ghoomer” is poised to resonate with everyone. R Balki’s filmmaking prowess has the remarkable ability to evoke a plethora of emotions simultaneously – be it joy or sorrow. Saiyami Kher’s performance is truly captivating, serving as a testament that unwavering determination can lead to triumph, even with a single hand. “Ghoomer” revolves around Anina, a young batting prodigy whose life takes an unforeseen turn after a tragic accident claims her right hand.
In the eve before her debut on the Indian cricket team, Anina (portrayed by Saiyami Kher) loses her right arm in a devastating accident. The film’s most remarkable quality lies in its capacity to instill belief in the seemingly implausible. What’s more, it masterfully maintains its grip on the viewer’s attention throughout the captivating story of “Ghoomer.” R Balki’s distinctive style shines through, cementing him as a true maestro of filmmaking, one who transcends gender and age biases.
In the hands of a skilled director, exceptional performances naturally emerge. Who could have foreseen the dedicated portrayal by Saiyami Kher or the resurgence of Abhishek Bachchan, marking this film as his comeback? “Ghoomer” has the potential to redefine his career trajectory. Abhishek’s gradual and steady growth as an actor is evident, and we fervently hope he doesn’t become ensnared in the labyrinth of “Ghoomer.”
Shabana Azmi, renowned for her craft, assumes the role of a grandmother who possesses an astute comprehension of cricket and takes a genuine interest in her granddaughter’s journey. Her understanding of cricket’s rules and history is impeccable – she knows it like the back of her hand. Azmi’s character is depicted as an avid Roger Federer enthusiast, subscribing to the Stoic philosophy of suppressing emotions. Proficient in cricket appreciation, she religiously prepares a spinach, ginger, celery, and lemon juice concoction for her granddaughter, convinced it aids her focus in the game.
Anina’s grandmother unwaveringly believes in her granddaughter’s potential to conquer the realm of women’s cricket. She refuses to settle for mediocrity, as evident in her steadfast commitment to excellence. She questions the norm: if a team can accommodate a batsman who doesn’t bowl, why can’t it embrace a bowler who doesn’t bat?
Paddy (portrayed by Abhishek Bachchan), Anina’s coach, embodies a stringent taskmaster who’s unapologetically rigorous in teaching bowling to a woman who recently lost her hand and was formerly a batsman. Paddy shares an unconventional bond with Anina, at times resorting to verbal abrasiveness. His tough demeanor isn’t limited to Anina alone – it extends even to his household staff. Yet, he’s the one who empowers Anina to believe that, even with just one hand, she can stand as a bowler on the Indian cricket team. He instills in her the strength to rise above self-pity and confront challenges like a warrior.
“Ghoomer” serves as a beacon of hope, urging us to nurture grand aspirations. It underscores the significance of trusting in our dreams, as that’s the initial step to manifesting them. Therefore, believe in yourself and in those who harbor faith in you.
Rating: A solid 3.5 out of 5.