I am not a very big admirer of Bollywood cinema precisely because the film making in Bollywood has mainly been focussed upon ‘entertainment’ rather than on critical socio-political issues. The filmmakers in India have focussed more upon bringing return on their investment by way of making Masala films. However in a ‘parallel cinema’ there have been films which have raised critical socio-political issues of the country and brought about the best of Indian actors on the stage. Maseey Sahib directed by Pradip Krishnen, a history professor turned filmmaker is one such film. The film is based on Joyce Cary’s 1939 novel ‘Mister Johnson….’
Massey Sahib is a 1985 drama film directed by Pradip Krishen and Raghubir Yadav in the lead role. The movie revolves around Massey Sahib (Raghubir Yadav) a Clerk in District Collector Seopore’s office. There is a famous line is the movie which speaks a lot about the interaction of common people with the bureaucracy. Introducing Massey Sahib one person says: “Yeh Massey Sahib hain, daftra ke angrezi type babu”. Massey Sahib represents the aspiration of Indian middle class who aspire to become government servants for all the good and bad it offers.
Arundhati Roy has played the role of lead actress in the film. Although she has acted silent in the entire film, her expressions have been impressive.
Summary
While Working as a clerk in the District Collectors office Massey helps the district collector to complete his dream project of building a road through the thick forests of Central India. He uses the method of manipulation, falsification of papers and threatening the villagers to work for the project. For his actions he is accused of corruption by his very own boss. His wife is also taken back by his family. Massey tries to get back to his wife and in his attempt he accidentally kills his own friend Banjaji. He is accused of murder and is tried for the same.
The film did not have much of the commercial success, However due to its exclusivity and the genuineness the film over the years have achieved almost a cult status. In my opinion anyone who wants to see and Indian cinema at its best must watch this film.
