Baghban (2003 film)
Baghban is a 2003 Indian Hindi-language family drama film directed by Ravi Chopra, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini in the lead roles. The film explores themes of familial duty, generational conflict, the importance of parents, and the challenges of aging.
The story revolves around Raj Malhotra (Amitabh Bachchan) and his wife Pooja (Hema Malini), an elderly couple who have dedicated their lives to raising their four sons. Upon retirement, they expect their sons to care for them in return, but are met with selfishness and indifference. The sons decide to divide their parents and have them live separately for six months each with different families. This separation and the resulting neglect cause Raj and Pooja great pain and hardship.
The film highlights the emotional struggles of elderly parents who are often overlooked or taken for granted by their children. It portrays the value of traditional Indian family values and emphasizes the importance of respecting and caring for elders. The film also showcases the strong bond between Raj and Pooja, whose unwavering love and mutual support help them navigate the challenges they face.
Baghban was a commercial success in India and overseas. It received positive reviews for its performances, emotional storyline, and exploration of relevant social issues. The film is known for its melodramatic narrative and its ability to resonate with audiences of all ages. It features music composed by Aadesh Shrivastava.
The film's title, Baghban, translates to "gardener" in Hindi, which metaphorically represents the parents who nurture and care for their children.