Chandrima Pal

Why is Jodhaa Akbar a fairy tale set in Mughal India?

Simply because is has the soul of one and the looks of one as well. Consider this: This is the story of a princess, who is stunningly beautiful, lives in a charming palace with her parents. And then there is the emperor, handsome, fearsome and yet gentle and virtuous. There are umpteen camels and elephants, horses and exotic birds flitting in and out of the frames, diamonds and rubies as big as pigeon eggs, yards of silk with intricate gold emroidery. There are scheming, devilish women in the royal household and kitchens with pots and pans meant to serve an entire army. There are royal baths and giant gilt -edged mirrors, gleaming swords and clanging shields. Sigh! The list is so impressive, you could go on and on and on.

Ashutosh Gowariker has given as a celluloid classic. Just when in the first half you miss some warmth as warriors and men go about barking orders and stomp around winding corridors of power, comes the beautiful princess, with her singing and praying, loving and longing.

Much has and will be written about the techincal aspect of the film, of the battle sequences and the accuracy in set and costume design. I'd say folks, forget it. It is an experience that appeals to all your senses. The food looks delicious, the clothes look rich, the palaces look awesome and the lead couple looks stunning. And yes, the music takes it to a different level altogether.

What does not work? The jumpy editing, the pace that slackens every now and then, the dialogue which may leave you a little cold. And of course, the lack of any serious climax (though the end duel seems to be straight out of Troy!). But as I have said earlier as well, I watched it without any expectations, and came back reborn as a Hrithik fan. And I have no qualms in admitting, that guy is too good. Like in the end of all fairy tales, I came back with a good feeling within though the length did leave me with a cramp in my neck:)