Shaking Stereotypes

Meenakshi Sundareshwar, a Diwali week release on Netflix has invited a mixed response. It has been criticised widely for its over stretched plot, its terrible Tamil diction and several flaws in its direction. However, despite its stated imperfections, the movie carries a refreshingly progressive tone that makes it a fascinating watch. Even though there are visible signs of modernity in middle class urban society, marriage is one aspect that still continues to hold the traditional ground. The institution of marriage continues to be sacred; and one wouldn’t dare to shake up the age-old customs, rituals and even gender stereotypes, so deeply engraved in our collective consciousness.

Meenakshi Sundareshwar, in many parts; jocularly, attempts to shake stereotypes and customs.

“Why should you be considered?” Meenakshi does not hesitate to boldly question her prospective suitor in an arranged marriage set up. Sundareshwar is not affronted by this question and responds authentically, " As an engineer i can solve your problems." She's impressed and their conversation progresses to understanding their differences and exploring what they have in common. Contrary to the classic image of a demure nervous girl, here is one who doesn’t hesitate to diffuse the awkwardness with her candour. Sundareshwar makes no pretensions of being a man who has it all figured out. He is vulnerable about his jobless status and trusts that this would not be a deal breaker. Later when he finds a job in another city, he is caught in a dilemma of whether he should leave his newly wed wife. With no trace of melodrama, she responds calmly that he should do what he feels is right. Her support in his decision is implicit.  

Without being offensive, it questions the lopsided logic of age-old rituals. She asks about the glass of turmeric milk placed next to his bedside. “If the promise of a great night has to be lived, shouldn't we both be consuming it?” She asks with beguiling curiosity and her new husband is quick to concede. On another occasion, when she spontaneously slips her hand into his; in full public glare; the movie breaks away from a traditional male prerogative.  

Her relationship with her father-in-law is friendly, a delightful shift from the conventional image one has of in laws. A woman comfortable in her skin, there is no hesitation in hiding the presence of a male friend when she flaunts a saree gifted by him. Usually, women are the confidantes in a family, when the vagaries of a newly formed relationship surface. The movie detracts from traditional norm in portraying the grandfather as the shoulder to lean on. He lends her a patient hearing and gives her sound advice to dialogue to resolve the matter.  

When her sense of freedom is violated, she musters up the courage to push back. When she asserts her point of view, she does so with deep conviction and a responsibility of not causing irreparable damage.  

Meenakshi superbly portrayed by Sanya Malhotra, reflects the many moods of a woman. She is honest, sensitive, bold, mature and vivacious. Rarely does one see a balanced blend of such qualities in one. Not one to stay in the background, this one carves her own niche in her new home.