Jogwa - The Awakening
Theatrical poster for Jogwa
Directed byRajiv Patil
Screenplay bySanjay Krishnaji Patil
Produced byShripal Morakhia
StarringUpendra Limaye
Mukta Barve
CinematographySanjay Jadhav
Edited byRajesh Rao
Music byAjay–Atul
Production
company
iDream Production Pvt Ltd.
Release date
25 September 2009
Running time
114 min
CountryIndia
LanguageMarathi

Jogwa - The Awakening is a 2009 Marathi-language film directed by Rajiv Patil and produced under iDream Productions & Screenplay by Sanjay Krishnaji Patil. It stars Upendra Limaye and Mukta Barve while Priya Berde, Vinay Apte, Sharvani Pillai and Kishor Kadam essay supporting roles.

The film received five awards at the national film awards for 2008.[1] National Film Award for Best Film on Social Issues, National Film Award for Best Actor for Upendra Limaye, National Film Award for Best Music Direction for Ajay Atul, National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for Hariharan for song "Jeev Rangla" and National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer for Shreya Ghoshal for the same song.

It contains strong romantic elements, that explores the life of a rural people from Maharashtra who are the devotees of Goddess Yellamma, known as "Jogtin" (female) and "Jogta" (male) and are treated as slaves viewed with a mixture of semi-respect.

Jogwa actually means alms given to a person, usually known as a Jogta or a Jogtin. They are forced by the society to give up everything and serve God. A jogta has to give up the fact of being a man and suppress all his desires. A jogtin is expected to give up herself, she cannot get married, have children or have a life of her own.

This tradition was followed in the rural areas in the ancient times and like any tradition was flexible enough for those in power to misuse it. It is known to be still followed in some villages in Karnataka. Jogwa is a love story between jogta played by Upendra Limaye and jogtin played by Mukta Barve.

On the centenary of Indian cinema in April 2013, Forbes included Upendra Limaye's performance in the film on its list, "25 Greatest Acting Performances of Indian Cinema".[2]

Summary

In the heart of rural Maharashtra, "Jogwa" intricately weaves a narrative tapestry around Tayappa and Shree, two protagonists ensnared by the age-old devadasi system. This cultural practice, deeply rooted in tradition, becomes a crucible where their destinies converge. The film unfolds with a nuanced exploration of the challenges and societal prejudices that surround the lives of those bound by the devadasi tradition.

As Tayappa and Shree navigate this complex landscape, their personal journeys become a metaphorical battleground for love and individual autonomy against the backdrop of entrenched norms. The film meticulously peels back layers of exploitation and discrimination, offering a stark portrayal of the struggles faced by those constrained by the shackles of this ancient practice.

Against this socio-cultural canvas, "Jogwa" transcends mere storytelling; it becomes a poignant commentary on the resilience of the human spirit. The characters' quest for personal freedom, love, and self-discovery serves as a compelling narrative thread, interwoven with the harsh realities of a society grappling with its own traditions.

What makes "Jogwa" a cinematic tour de force is not only its thematic depth but also the artistic finesse it brings to the table. The evocative musical score, coupled with powerful performances, enhances the emotional resonance of the film. Each frame seems to carry the weight of tradition, yet within that weight, there is a delicate dance of rebellion and resilience.

In essence, "Jogwa" emerges not just as a film but as a cultural commentary, prompting reflection on the intricate interplay between tradition and individual freedom. It stands as a testament to the power of cinema to illuminate, provoke thought, and inspire change, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape of Marathi cinema.

Cast

Critical reception

Film is already internationally acclaimed, praised by critics and audience alike and won awards like Best Director Award, three prominent awards, 12 nominations in various categories at the Zee Gaurav Award 2009 along with 13 nominations for depiction of culture and society and First Special Jury Award and Audience Choice Award at the Pune International Film Festival.

Music

Jogwa
Soundtrack album by
GenreFeature film soundtrack

The Marathi music duo Ajay–Atul composed varied compositions including Romantic and traditional Gondhal. The song Jeev Rangla was awarded a National Film Award in 2010.

SongsSinger(s)
"Man Ranaat Gela Ga" Shreya Ghoshal
"Lallati Bhandaar" Ajay Gogavale
"Jeev Rangla" Hariharan, Shreya Ghoshal
"Harinichya Daarat" Anand Shinde

Awards

  • Got 37 Awards out of 60 Nominations before its commercial release.
  • Zee Gaurav Award 2009 Got 12 Nominations.
  • Maharashtra State Government Awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor & Best Actress.
  • V. Shantaram Awards for Best Film.
  • Sanskruti Kala Darpan Awards for Best Film.
  • Maharashtra Times Awards for Best Film.
  • International Film Festival,Pune Awards For Best Film.
  • Marathi International Film & Theater Awards- Best lyricist - Sanjay Patil
  • Marathi International Film & Theater Awards- Best Cinematography - Sanjay Jadhav
Award Category Recipient Result
56th National Film Awards[3] National Film Award for Best Actor Upendra Limaye Won
National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer Hariharan (for song " Jiv Rangala ") Won
National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer Shreya Ghoshal (for song " Jiv Rangala ") Won
National Film Award for Best Music Direction Ajay Atul Won
National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues Shripal Morakhia Won

References

  1. "57th National Film Awards" (PDF).
  2. "25 Greatest Acting Performances Of Indian Cinema". Forbes India. Retrieved 2 June 2023.
  3. "56th National Film Awards" (PDF). Directorate of Film Festivals. 23 January 2010. Retrieved 23 January 2010.
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