Swayamvar

Watch Swayamvar

  • NR
  • 1990
  • 2 hr 37 min
  • 7.4  (111)

Swayamvar is a classic Bollywood drama released in 1980, which brings together a stellar cast of Shashi Kapoor, Sanjeev Kumar, and Moushumi Chatterjee. Directed by Mohan Segal, the movie emerges as a traditional tale woven around the concept of marriage and the various circumstances that surround it. Set against the backdrop of Indian cultural norms and the age-old tradition of 'Swayamvar' (an ancient practice where a woman chooses her husband from among a group of suitors), the movie spins a vibrant yarn of family ties, individual aspirations, and the human quest for true companionship. The director, in this film, attempts to blend the traditional with the contemporary, exploring how the characters navigate the often tumultuous waters of marriage and societal expectations.

The narrative introduces us to the character played by Shashi Kapoor, who embodies the charm and elegance typical of his roles from that era. As a protagonist, he comes across as principled and charismatic, which draws the attention of the female lead. Moushumi Chatterjee, with her effervescent screen presence and strong-willed demeanor, perfectly fits the role of a young woman at the crossroads of her life—having to choose a life partner under the weight of tradition and her desires.

Sanjeev Kumar, known for his ability to portray complex characters with ease, delivers another commendable performance. His character adds to the dynamic of the Swayamvar, as he provides a contrast to Shashi Kapoor’s portrayal, leading to an interesting interplay between the various suitors. Together, Kapoor and Kumar add layers to the narrative, depicting the different aspects of society and the multiple viewpoints men can have regarding marriage and commitment.

The film captures the essence of an era that was on the brink of change. On one hand, the storyline respects the established customs of Indian society, yet on the other hand, it subtly hints at the evolving attitudes towards the institution of marriage, reflecting the complexity and the nuances that the new generation was experiencing.

The supporting cast, rich in talent, plays a significant role in creating a well-rounded story. Their performances add depth to the central plot, each with their own sub-stories and struggles that interlink with the primary theme. Whether it's the doting parents, the skeptical relatives, or the eager suitors, each character contributes significantly to the momentum and emotional fabric of the film.

The music of Swayamvar, composed by the talented Rajesh Roshan, resonates with the themes of love, expectation, and traditional values. The songs, embedded in the storytelling, serve as emotional touchpoints that enhance the narrative. They vary in tone from celebratory to contemplative and are choreographed to reflect the vibrancy and color of Indian festivities, especially those related to weddings.

Cinematographically, the film captures the grandeur and opulence often associated with Indian weddings. The settings are rich and colorful, with authentic costumes, jewelry, and decor that pay homage to the cultural richness of the country. The director uses these visual cues to further immerse the audience in the world he has created, while the cinematographer captures the intricate details that bring the era and its customs to life.

Swayamvar scrutinizes the various relationships within the family unit, between friends, and within the communal society. It analyzes the roles that men and women play, the expectations placed upon them, and how these expectations can both support and conflict with individual desires. The movie propels forward as the characters grapple with the age-old question: Should one marry for love, duty, or status?

Throughout the film, dramatic tension builds as the contestants in the Swayamvar vie for the affection of the female lead. The series of events leading to her decision are filled with moments of drama, comedy, emotion, and the occasional twist that keeps the audience guessing. The director manages to strike a balance between seriousness and lighter moments, ensuring that the film remains entertaining while also prompting the viewer to contemplate the societal and personal implications of marriage.

In conclusion, Swayamvar is a movie that offers a window into the complex tapestry of Indian social norms around matrimony, seen through the prism of an engaging drama filled with rich characters and vibrant storytelling. Its time-tested narrative, enlivened by commendable performances from its lead actors, remains an interesting watch even for contemporary audiences interested in the traditional values that continue to shape modern Indian society.

Swayamvar is a 1990 romance movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.

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Where to Watch Swayamvar
Swayamvar is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Amazon Prime, Apple TV Channels, Apple TV and Google Play. Some platforms allow you to rent Swayamvar for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1990
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    2 hr 37 min
  • Language
    Hindi
  • IMDB Rating
    7.4  (111)