Cinephiles pack Bharat Bhavan for screening of ‘The Blue Umbrella’

 

 

 

The Children’s Film Festival at Bharat Bhavan witnessed an overwhelming response on Sunday as cinephiles flocked to watch the screening of The Blue Umbrella. The 2005 Indian drama, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and based on Ruskin Bond’s 1980 novel of the same name, had the auditorium packed to capacity, forcing organizers to put up a ‘Housefull’ sign. Featuring Shreya Sharma and Pankaj Kapur in lead roles, The Blue Umbrella is set in a quaint village and revolves around a striking blue umbrella, a young girl, and a tea shop owner. The film’s music, composed by Vishal Bhardwaj with lyrics penned by Gulzar, complements its heartfelt narrative. While the film’s engaging storytelling captivates, its appeal has largely been limited to select audiences in urban multiplexes due to its niche target. The story begins with Binya, an eleven-year-old girl from a picturesque hill village in North India, who discovers a vibrant blue umbrella—unlike anything she has ever seen.

 

The umbrella also catches the eye of Nandkishore Khatri, a miserly tea shop owner with a penchant for pickles, known for swindling children out of their small possessions. Enchanted by the umbrella’s beauty, Khatri makes desperate attempts to acquire it but fails miserably. However, he isn’t the only one drawn to the umbrella’s charm. Its arrival disrupts the village’s peace and harmony, as Binya’s prized possession becomes a symbol of envy and power, taking on an almost mythical status in the small community. The enthusiastic turnout at Bharat Bhavan underscored the film’s enduring appeal, with audiences captivated by its simple yet profound storytelling. Organized by the Chhavi Division, the Children’s Film Festival will continue with the screening of Tora on Monday at 7 PM, promising another evening of cinematic delight for attendees.