Ankur (1974)

Ankur, a poignant tale set against the backdrop of India's societal structures, tells the story of Surya, the educated heir to a wealthy landowner. Upon returning home from the city, Surya is caught between the expectations of his father and the traditions of the village people he struggles to understand. His life takes a dramatic turn when he begins an illicit affair with Laxmi, a woman of lesser status who is trapped in a loveless marriage to a deaf-mute alcoholic named Kishtaya. Laxmi's life is marked by hardship, as she and her husband labor for their wealthy landlord. When Kishtaya is brutally punished for stealing toddy from the fields and subsequently disappears, Laxmi is left to survive on her own. Her vulnerability catches Surya's eye, triggering a clandestine relationship that challenges the rigid caste system and stirs resentment among the villagers. As their love story unfolds, the unexpected arrival of Surya's wife, Saroj, causes tension to escalate. Surya, once the rebellious lover, is forced to face the harsh reality of his societal obligations. His abandonment of Laxmi, who is now pregnant, reveals her as a threat to his privileged world. Ankur is a profound exploration of love, betrayal, and rebellion in a society bound by rigid norms. Shabana Azmi's captivating portrayal of Laxmi set the stage for her illustrious career in independent Indian cinema. The final scene of the film, a symbol of defiance against societal pressures, created waves upon its release in 1973, positioning Ankur as a pioneering work in the realm of Indian cinema.

Ankur is a drama movie featuring Shabana Azmi.

Ankur is currently streaming on MUBI.