1973's sensational film 'Achanak' which still gives goosebumps

Released in 1973, "Achanak" directed by the legendary Gulzar is not just another old Bollywood film, it is a heart-touching tale of love, betrayal, and the zenith of anger. The film is inspired by the infamous KM Nanavati murder case real case of 1958, a story that reflects societal norms as well as questions the justification for going to great lengths in love and war. It marks an entertaining story full of ups and downs. Directed by the sensational Gulzar, this film left such an impact on the cinema world that it continues to this day.

The screenplay of "Achanak" was inspired by a real-life incident. It tells the story of a man's unexpected journey towards crime after discovering his wife's infidelity. It's interesting real-life incidents sparked such creativity and emotion in cinema that still it is remembered.

At the center of the story is Major Ranjit Khanna (played by Vinod Khanna), an Army officer awarded the Vir Chakra, who finds himself on death row for the alleged murders of his wife and best friend.

As he is hospitalized from a serious bullet wound, sustained during his escape, a gripping story about his past emerges.  This is the story of a courageous soldier who loved his wife deeply but had to face the sting of betrayal.

Gulzar has expertly woven this complex story through a captivating mix of flashbacks that reveal various emotional depths. With this film, Vinod Khanna moved away from his image and did what very few actors are able to do in a complex lead role. The ensemble cast of all the talented actors including Om Shivpuri as the experienced doctor, Asrani as the young doctor, Farida Jalal as the nurse, and Iftekar as a senior army officer who is also a Major have made the film such a Presentation that the audience had the feeling of watching the actual cycle of events.

The film's soundtrack, primarily adopted Vasant Desai's background score to maintain its serious atmosphere, apart from the use of Sachinda Burman's classic 'Sun Mere Bandhu Re'.

Although Gulzar is famous for his songs, poetry, and music ironically he did not include even a single song in this film. The great composer Vasant Desai just added depth to the story of "Achanak" with his background score. Due to this, the emotional turmoil of the characters is clearly transacted.

The film's sole score, composed by Vasant Desai, kept the silence tinged with a thought-provoking atmosphere. 
Despite the absence of songs in the film, the emotional gravity of the story kept the audience deeply engaged with the turmoil of the characters.

The entire story of the film revolves around Major Ranjit Khanna, which has been played brilliantly by Vinod Khanna.  Bengali actress Lily Chakraborty played the role of his wife Pushpa in the film.

The casting of "Achanak " deserves special mention. It stars the versatile Vinod Khanna in a role that was quite different from his previous performances. The portrayal of the character of a betrayed husband brought a unique depth to the film.

His emotional range kept the audience deeply engaged with his struggles. His on-screen partner Lily Chakraborty, playing his wife, brought the same intensity and sensitivity to her role that Gulzar required from her to create a powerful performance.

Vaikunth's cinematography in 'Achanak' perfectly captured the essence of Ranjit's internal struggle while the editing by Waman B Bhosle and Gurudutt Shirali maintained the tight narrative pace which is crucial for a story steeped in psychological tension.

In a scene when Ranjit moves towards the river Ganga, the symbol of purity and cleanliness, to immerse the last trace of his wife in the river, the emotion on his face pierces the heart of the audience

His injuries while attempting to flee the police serve as a metaphor for the wounds left by betrayal, both physically and emotionally.
The kindness shown to him by the hospital staff during his hospitalization provides a ray of hope even in such a bleak situation, showing the immense capacity for empathy even in the most difficult situations.

The 1973 film "Achanak" not only exposes the depth of human emotions but also raises questions on justice and morality which continue to resonate with audiences long after the film is over. Achanak" may have been released in the 70s, but its subject matter appeals to today's audience.

Gulzar's direction, coupled with Khawaja Ahmed Abbas's powerful screenplay makes "Achanak" not just a crime film, but a sensibility, Gulzar's typically tender sensibility shines through in this remarkable film.

In the adaptation of Khwaja Ahmed Abbas's short story 'The Thirteenth Victim', Gulzar's interpretation was so innovative and captivating that even the original writer Abbas himself praised it, saying, "I could never have imagined making such a film on my story.!"
One of the extraordinary features of the making of "Achanak " was its cutting-edge filming technology in the seventies.

Gulzar made the film with his artistic vision,

Natural lighting and minimal sets were used to enhance authenticity. This idea not only made the film engaging but it also allowed the audience to focus on the emotions of the characters rather than the flashy background. This approach distinguishes "Achanak" from many other films of its time.

Some other interesting things about this film are as follows. The filming of 'Achanak' was the first use of the triple flashback technique in Hindi cinema.
Due to the film being quite short, the film was paired with a documentary titled 'Sagar Tirtha' directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee during its release.

Getting Abbas's story was no easy feat. When both Gulzar and producer NC Sippy reached Abbas Sahab to seek permission to make a film on his story, he had already left to catch the flight. Gulzar and Sippy somehow managed to run and stop him just before his departure to Delhi.

The entire film was shot in just 28 days, showcasing the efficiency of its cast and crew.
The film raises questions about justice and morality, particularly through the lens of medical ethics, as doctors struggle to save a guilty man.

Read also:

• Pregnant Shraddha Arya Dedicates to 'Kundali Bhagya' From Home
  
• Shilpa-Raj Kundra approached Bombay High Court against ED notice
• Aarya Babbar Studies Vinod Khanna for Kalikant Thakur Role
• Karan Johar and Ayan Mukerji Celebrate Winning National Film Award