Long before Sanjay Leela Bhansali squandered fifty crore rupees on Devdas, here was a period movie with authentic sets and stunning costumes. Based on the 6th century Sanskrit play ‘Mrichhakatika’ and set in the Gupta period of Indian history, Utsav is a celebration of love and passion in the backdrop of political upheaval. Vatsayana (the author of the legendary Kamasutra) acts as the ‘Sutradhar’ (narrator) while researching his ...ahem...favorite subject. The story revolves around the love affair of a married and penniless brahmin merchant Charudutt (Shekhar Suman) and a beautiful courtesan Vasantasena (Rekha). The latter is pursued by Samsthanak (Shashi Kapoor), the evil, lascivious brother-in-law of the king. In the midst of all this, there’s a political coup being planned to overthrow the evil king and his brother-in-law.
Utsav was director Girish Karnad’s adaptation of a serious play, converted into a light hearted sensual comedy that worked. Shashi Kapoor’s indulgence as a producer was reflected in the spectacular costumes (it is rumored that Rekha’s heavy jewellery was original silver coated with gold) and the classy sets. The performances of Anu Kapoor, Shankar Nag, Harish Patel and Amjad Khan in their respective cameos stood out for the comic flair. Rekha was sensuality personified and came up with an uninhibited performance that set the screen afire (especially in the scene where she is entangled with Shekhar Suman amidst her jewellery). Anuradha Patel in a dignified mellow role was the perfect foil. Producer Shashi Kapoor with all the extra kilos he gained for this role made a chilling Samsthanak. Lakshmikant Pyarelal’s music was brilliantly set against the period with innovative use of matkas and heavy usage of the flute.
Utsav is one of those rare movies that makes you proud of the ancient cultural richness of India. A movie that harks back to a period where India was open minded and sex and sensuality were treated with a respect that got lost in the prudery introduced by the generations of foreign rule. More than that, the story of Charudatta and Vasantasena celebrates the timeless essence of love set amidst the eternal spring festival. Comedy, political intrigue, passion, music, sensuality and grandeur all make up this enchanting movie.