Cast
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Ranveer Singh
as Peshwa Bajirao Ballaad
Deepika Padukone
as Mastani
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
as Kashibai
Tanvi Azmi
as Radhabai
Vaibhav Tatwawadi
as Chimaji Appa
Mahesh Manjrekar
as Chhatrapati Shahu
Milind Soman
as Ambaji Panth
Aditya Pancholi
as Shripatrao Pratinidhi
Ayush Tandon
as Nana Saheb
Rudra Soni
as Young Nana Saheb
Raza Murad
as Qamar ud-Din Khan
Benjamin Gilani
as King Chhatrasal
Anuja Sathe
as Bhiubai
Yatin Karyekar
as Krishna Bhatt
Irrfan Khan
as Narrator (voice)
Crew
Director
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Producer
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali
- Kishore Lulla
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Bajirao Mastani examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Bajirao Mastani took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $19.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 158 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 217 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2350 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Bajirao Mastani shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Fighter, which focuses more on action than character development, Bajirao Mastani subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and The Edukators explore similar territory, Bajirao Mastani stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 18, 2015
- Runtime: 2h 38m
- Budget: $19,500,000
- Revenue: $56,000,000
Where to Watch
