The much-anticipated film “Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi,” starring Tarun Bhaskar and Eesha Rebba, was released today, January 30. This Telugu remake of the Malayalam hit “Jay Jay Jay Jay Hey” aims to capture the essence of middle-class women’s struggles in today’s society. The original film was produced with a budget of ₹5 crores and went on to gross over ₹50 crores, setting a box office record. The Telugu version is also available on GioHotstar, allowing many viewers to experience the story.
The film’s central theme revolves around the life of Shanti (played by Eesha Rebba), a girl who dreams of living life on her own terms. With aspirations for higher education and a respectable job, she hopes to study in Patna after completing her intermediate studies. However, her parents dissuade her from pursuing this dream, leading her to enroll in a nearby college. A significant event at college forces her to abandon her studies and consider marriage, which adds further complexity to her journey.
As Shanti’s parents begin arranging her marriage, she expresses her desire to achieve academic success first. Enter Naidu (Tarun Bhaskar), who promises her that he will support her education after they marry. Delighted by his assurance, Shanti agrees to the marriage. However, once the wedding festivities conclude, Naidu’s true colors emerge, revealing a domineering attitude that leads to domestic abuse. This pivotal moment prompts Shanti to confront her reality, leading her to seek solace and support from her parents.
Shanti’s character embodies the struggles faced by many middle-class women, who often find themselves trapped by societal expectations and familial pressures. The film adeptly highlights the disparity in how male and female children are treated, with Shanti experiencing a lack of affection and support from her family throughout her upbringing. Despite these challenges, she excels academically, driven by her determination to secure a better future.
The portrayal of Shanti’s character is commendable, as it resonates with the audience and reflects the experiences of countless women in similar situations. The film also delves into the harsh realities of domestic violence, questioning societal norms that often blame women for standing up to their abusers. Shanti boldly asks whether it is acceptable for a husband to strike his wife when society seems to accept such behavior as commonplace.
The director skillfully presents these themes, although some may find the second half of the film less engaging compared to the first. Nevertheless, the narrative maintains its momentum, leading to a climactic twist that keeps viewers invested. The film emphasizes the fundamental needs women desire from their husbands: freedom, independence, and equality, which are crucial for a healthy marital relationship.
In terms of performances, Eesha Rebba shines as Shanti, effectively portraying the nuances of a middle-class woman’s life. Her ability to convey patience, resilience, and love is evident, particularly in scenes that depict her breaking point. Tarun Bhaskar delivers a remarkable performance as Naidu, showcasing the complexities of his character convincingly.
Overall, “Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi” offers a compelling narrative that resonates with many families, making it an ideal choice for a film night after the Sankranti festival. With its thought-provoking themes and strong performances, the film invites audiences to reflect on the societal challenges faced by women and the importance of respect and equality in relationships.
