Mahesh Bhatt’s ‘Daddy’ (1989) is based on his own experiences with alcoholism. The film stars Anupam Kher as Anand, a successful singer who falls into alcoholism after the death of his wife. His daughter Pooja (Pooja Bhatt) is forced to take care of him, and the film explores the challenges of living with an alcoholic parent. It was the acting debut of Mahesh Bhatt’s daughter, who shot the movie when she was only 16 and she played a 17-year-old daughter.
As far as her performance is concerned, Pooja Bhatt is excellent as Pooja. She is strong and independent, but she is also vulnerable and loving. She brings a lot of heart to the role and she makes the audience root for her. She was cast alongside Soni Razdan, Satish Kaushik, Neena Gupta, Manohar Singh, Suhas Joshi, Raj Zutshi and many other talented actors.
Bhatt has said in an interview that he made ‘Daddy’ as a way to deal with his own demons and the film has helped many other people who are struggling with alcoholism.
Anupam Kher’s performance is heartbreaking. He brings a lot of depth and humanity to the role of Anand and he makes the audience feel for him even when he is at his lowest point.
‘Daddy’ was a critical and commercial success and it won several awards, including the National Film Award – Special Jury Award for Anupam Kher. The film was praised for its sensitive portrayal of alcoholism and it helped to raise awareness of the issue.
The low budget and made-for-TV format allowed the filmmaker to tell a more intimate and personal story. Bhatt’s direction is sensitive and compassionate and the outspoken director does not shy away from the difficult aspects of alcoholism, but he also shows the hope that is possible.
The ghazal “Aaina Mujhse Meri” composed by Rajesh Roshan, written by Suraj Sanim and sung by Talat Aziz became very famous.
‘Daddy’ is unpredictable and a must-see for anyone who is interested in films about alcoholism or family relationships. It remains a powerful and moving film that is still relevant today.
