Refreshingly different , Banaras narrates the story in a flasback mode.Shwetambari (Urmila), a high caste woman, falls in love with a low caste music teacher Soham (Ashmit Patel) while studying science at a school in Banaras. Soham is an avid follower of Buddhism and the teachings of his guru Babaji (Naseerudin Shah).
Their young love sparks a riot of outrage in the town of Banaras causing a widespread clash of religion and society uprights. Everyone takes a side and Shwetambari must make a choice. Shwetambari is torn but her parents choose to support her and her love, but later, even they must decide to act promptly.
Torn, Shwetambari leaves Banaras and her parents behind. Away, Shwetambari becomes successful and thrives in her career as a philosophy professor. However, she can’t stay away forever and is called back to Banaras by her dying father. Now the turmoil must resurface as Shwetambari must make a life altering decision.
The film abounds in sequences that have been handled with utmost care, notable among those that focus on the relationship between Urmila and Asmeet. The dramatic scenes are just right and not once does any character get loud or go overboard.
The emotional scenes, featuring Urmila, are a treat to watch. The climax, of course, takes the viewer by surprise and was the best way out to culminate the story.
It is difficult to think of any other actress who could’ve essayed this complex role with such sincerity as Urmila. A powerhouse of talent, this film is yet another effort on the part of the actress to showcase the talent she possesses. To state that she is exceptional would be an understatement. Here’s yet another award winning performance from her.
Another actor who delivers a first-rate performance is Ashmeet, who essays the role brilliantly. Dimple is effective. Raj Babbar is proficient in his role.Naseer makes her presence felt in a brief role.
Director Pankaj proves his versatility by attempting an issue that has been seldom projected on Indian screen. His mature handling of subject deserves highest marks. Music is situational and only one number stands out – ’Rang Dalo. Cinematography is splendid.
Banaras is not the usual song-n-dance flick that boasts of top stars and mindless masalas. But it’s a thought-provoking film that defies the rules of commercial cinema. Go for it!