"Hindi Medium" is a 2017 Indian comedy-drama film directed by Saket Chaudhary and starring Irrfan Khan and Saba Qamar in the lead roles. The film follows a wealthy couple from Delhi who aspire to get their daughter admitted to a prestigious English-medium school, but struggle to do so due to their lack of English proficiency.
The couple, Raj and Mita, decide to move to a poor neighborhood and enroll their daughter in a low-cost government school to prove that they are financially and socially underprivileged, in hopes of getting a quota seat in the English-medium school. The film explores the themes of class divide, the education system in India, and the struggles of the middle-class to provide their children with the best education possible.
The film received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, grossing over 3.5 billion rupees at the box office. It was also remade in several languages, including in Chinese as "Hi, Mom" and in Malayalam as "Kannadi".
The film's success can be attributed to its engaging storyline, strong performances by the lead actors, and its commentary on the Indian education system. It shed light on the rampant corruption in the education system, where parents are willing to go to any lengths to secure a good education for their children, even if it means resorting to unethical means.
The film also highlighted the gap between the haves and have-nots, and the societal pressure that forces parents to choose expensive private schools over government schools, despite the latter being more affordable and accessible.
Apart from its social commentary, "Hindi Medium" also portrayed the complexities of modern-day relationships, and the dynamics between spouses who come from different social and economic backgrounds. The film's humorous take on these issues made it relatable to a wide audience, and its realistic portrayal of Delhi's middle-class life struck a chord with viewers.
"Hindi Medium" is a thought-provoking film that shines a light on the inequalities and challenges faced by parents in the Indian education system. Its message of the importance of education and the need for change in the system is relevant not only in India but also globally.
The film's success also contributed to a larger conversation on the medium of instruction in Indian schools, with many people debating the advantages and disadvantages of studying in English versus Hindi or regional languages. The film's portrayal of the struggles of non-English speaking parents resonated with many viewers who faced similar issues in their own lives.
Moreover, the film's lead actor, Irrfan Khan, delivered a stellar performance as Raj, a self-made businessman who is trying to fit in with the elite society, while also struggling to keep his family's values intact. His nuanced portrayal of a father who is willing to go to great lengths to ensure his daughter's future is heartwarming and relatable.
In addition to Irrfan Khan's performance, Saba Qamar's portrayal of Mita, a determined mother who is trying to navigate the complexities of the education system, was also lauded by critics and audiences alike. The film also features a talented supporting cast, including Deepak Dobriyal, Amrita Singh, and Tillotama Shome.
"Hindi Medium" is a film that skillfully blends humor with social commentary, and its themes of education, class divide, and relationships continue to resonate with audiences. The film's legacy has also extended beyond its success at the box office, with its impact being felt in the larger discourse on education in India.
The film's impact can also be seen in the way it has opened up conversations about language and privilege in the Indian education system. The film's portrayal of the elitism associated with English-medium education has spurred discussions about the need for greater support for regional language education and a more inclusive education system.
Moreover, the film's success has also influenced the Indian film industry, with more filmmakers exploring themes of social commentary and realism. The film's director, Saket Chaudhary, has become known for his brand of socially-relevant comedies, with his subsequent film, "Hindi Medium 2" in development.
"Hindi Medium" is a film that has made a significant impact on the Indian cultural landscape. Its commentary on the education system, relationships, and societal inequalities continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless piece of cinema. The film's success has also paved the way for more stories that tackle important social issues in an engaging and accessible way, which has contributed to a more diverse and nuanced portrayal of Indian society on screen.
Furthermore, "Hindi Medium" has also contributed to the growing trend of Indian films finding success not only in India but also in international markets. The film's relatable storyline, well-written script, and strong performances by the lead actors have made it a hit among international audiences. It was also screened at various film festivals, including the Shanghai International Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation.
The film's success at the box office and critical acclaim has also paved the way for more nuanced and socially relevant films to gain recognition in the Indian film industry. It has inspired filmmakers to explore themes that are often neglected in mainstream cinema, leading to a more diverse and inclusive portrayal of Indian society on screen.
In conclusion, "Hindi Medium" is a film that continues to have a significant impact on Indian cinema and society. Its commentary on the education system and social inequalities, coupled with its engaging storyline and strong performances, have made it a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It has opened up conversations about language, privilege, and social hierarchies, leading to a more nuanced and inclusive portrayal of Indian society on screen.