Bhaag milkha bhaag

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) is an inspiring biographical drama based on the life of Milkha Singh, one of India’s greatest athletes. Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and starring Farhan Akhtar in the lead role, the film narrates the journey of Milkha Singh, from his traumatic childhood during the Partition of India to his rise as a world-class sprinter.

Plot Overview:

The film is a blend of Milkha’s past and present. It opens with the 1960 Rome Olympics, where Milkha fails to win a medal despite a promising lead in the final. The narrative then shifts to his early life during the Partition, where he loses his family and witnesses unspeakable violence. This trauma marks his early years, leading him to struggle with anger and a sense of abandonment.

Milkha is eventually discovered by coach Pandit (played by Prakash Raj), who sees his potential in athletics. His hard work, dedication, and inner demons drive him to overcome various personal and professional obstacles, including competition and relationships, eventually earning him the title of "The Flying Sikh."

The film also delves into his romantic relationship with a woman named Biro (Sonam Kapoor), which provides emotional depth to his character, showcasing the balance of his personal and professional struggles.

Performances:

Farhan Akhtar delivers a powerhouse performance as Milkha Singh. His physical transformation, rigorous training, and emotional depth make him a believable and compelling protagonist. His portrayal of Milkha’s intense emotions—ranging from vulnerability to strength—adds authenticity to the character. His dedication to training for the role was remarkable, making the running sequences especially impactful.

Sonam Kapoor plays Biro, Milkha’s love interest, and though her role is somewhat secondary to the narrative, she brings warmth and empathy to her scenes.

The supporting cast, including Prakash Raj, Divya Dutta (who plays Milkha’s sister), and others, also shine, each contributing to the emotional weight of the story.

Direction and Cinematography:

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s direction is solid, with a focus on both the personal and public life of Milkha Singh. He skillfully interweaves the athlete’s past and present, giving a sense of continuity to Milkha’s evolution as an individual and as a champion.

The cinematography by Binod Pradhan is stunning, particularly in the training and race sequences. The running scenes are intense and are shot with such precision that they create a sense of exhilaration and urgency. The flashbacks are well-handled, giving insight into Milkha’s traumatic childhood without overshadowing the larger narrative.

Music and Soundtrack:

The music, composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, complements the story perfectly. Tracks like “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” and “Mera Yaar” evoke a sense of motivation and nostalgia. The background score adds to the intensity, especially during crucial moments in the races.