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Introduction –
Unlike the earlier web series, Unpaused: Naya Safar a pandemic anthology has some hard hitting episodes / short films. We believe, Vaikunth, the 5th and the last one is the most thought provoking and therefore our first pick for the review. Vaikunth shakes the very foundation of humanity and relationships, forcing us to introspect on some of our inherent flawed virtues, especially our cunning and selfish ways. At the same time the film is also a tribute to Covid front line warriors.
Synopsis –
Vikas Chavan ( Nagraj Manjule ) is a corpse burner at a local Hindu crematorium, Vaikunth. The novel corona virus has ravaged the entire country in its second deadly wave killing thousands of people every day.
We all have seen and heard pandemic stories but Vaikunth is different, daring
Vikas works day and night, setting up funeral pyre, loading dead corpses and then lighting it up in many cases because the relatives are either not present or they simply maintain a safe distance fearing infection.
In spite of the noble work, Vikas is asked to vacate his room as the owner and the neighbors feel vulnerable. With no support and complete apathy from friends and relatives, he starts living within the periphery of the crematorium. Meanwhile, his son, Avinash ( Arjun Karche ) keeps asking about his grandfather ( Hanumant Bhandari ) who is admitted to the hospital after contracting the deadly virus.
The film goes on the show endless flow of ambulances entering and exiting Vaikunth, healthcare workers in PPE suits and hand carts stacked with multiple corpses zipped up from head to toe. In spite of the adversities and depressing settings Vikas continues to serve relentlessly, occasionally taking a breather to talk to his son, advising him to focus on studies and also to strengthen his deteriorating morale. His only source of comfort is alcohol and his belief that one day his father would return; cured and healthy.
What happens to Vikas and his son? Does Vikas’s father return? Check out Episode 5 on Prime Video to know the outcome.
Analysis –
Authentic settings, amazing cast and uncut depiction of the horrific times is something very few would dare to portray in a short film. Some of the shots need special mention, especially the accumulation of ash stacked against the wall depicting Shiva’s painting and multiple pyres burning inside the crematorium while in the background Vikas is sleeping on a lone hand cart. Kudos for the exceptional direction and cinematography.
Year of Release – 2022 | Director – Nagraj Manjule | Story – | Running Time – 30 Minutes | Availability – Amazon Prime Video