Aashayein
Cast John Abraham, Sonal Sehgal,Girish Karnad, Farida Jalal
Director Nagesh Kukunoor
Rating TBA
Realistic films have always been Nagesh Kukunoor's forte. He once deviated from his film-making style by taking on commercial projects like Bombay to Bangkok and 8x10 Tasveer. Now the film-maker is back to what he does best with Aashayein, a film that deals with hope and human emotions.
The story revolves around Rahul Singh (Abraham), a compulsive gambler, who after winning a huge amount of money in a bet throws a party. During the celebration he decides to propose to his girlfriend Nafisa (Sehgal), but collapses on the floor as soon as he announces his engagement. After a visit to the hospital that night, Rahul realises that he has a dreadful illness.
The fearful revelation makes Rahul change his outlook on life and teaches him to face every challenge with a lot of courage and hope.
Delayed but special
Aashayein was completed in 2008 but Percept Pictures, the film's producers, faced financial problems that led to the delay of its release. The film is now being released by Reliance Pictures and Abraham is a happy man. "Aashayein is a special film and I've been emotionally attached to it ever since the project began. It's one of the best roles I've ever played and I give all credit to Nagesh Kukunoor for crafting such a wonderful character," he says.
The actor is believed to have worked in the flick for free. "When I was shooting for the film, both my parents were ill and had to be hospitalised. It was extremely difficult and challenging to work under such a stressful situation. I found the whole experience emotionally demanding," he says.
Making a mark
Aashayein is the third film for Sehgal and could be a good opportunity for the actress to showcase her skills. Sehgal made her debut opposite Himesh Reshammiya in 2009's flop Radio followed by lacklustre Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai.
The movie has a strong supporting cast comprising veteran actor Girish Karnad, who earlier teamed with Kukunoor in Iqbal and Jalal. The acting ace will be seen in a significant role after a long time. Kukunoor's prized discovery Shreyas Talpade who was launched in Iqbal also makes a special appearance in the film.
Positive approach
Abraham is optimistic about the film as it deals with the subject of hope. Besides, the actor says Aashayein was filmed in Pondicherry, a place he considers lucky for him as he shot his debut film Jism there. "I think more than anything else Aashayein is a film that has a positive message and will give a lot of hope to people who are disillusioned by life," says the former model.
Hope this film lives up to Abraham's expectations and helps him step back into the limelight.
