Gangubai Kathiawadi / That 2 hour 32 minute icebreaker film, earned 200 crores- it put its life into the BO

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' gave new energy to Bollywood after the pandemic. This film became a great example of theatrical experience. Alia Bhatt's strong performance and Bhansali's direction made it iconic. Making a splash at the box office, it became an example of women empowerment.

Gangubai Kathiawadi: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', released in 2022, was not just a film, but it witnessed the revival of Hindi cinema. After the COVID-19 pandemic, when there was doubt about the return of audiences to theaters, the film not only performed tremendously at the box office but also inspired the audience to return to the big screen. The film not only gave new life to theaters but also gave a new energy to Bollywood.

The story of Gangubai: The tale of a simple girl becoming a powerful woman

The story of the film is about an ordinary girl Ganga Harjivandas Kathiawadi, who comes to Mumbai from Kathiawar but is pushed into prostitution by deceit. However, instead of succumbing to the circumstances, she gives a new identity not only to herself but to the women of the entire red-light area through her struggle. She emerges as the queen of 'Kamathipura' and raises her voice for women's rights. This film is not just the story of a woman, but also an attempt to change the attitude towards prostitutes in society.

Bhansali's grand direction and Alia Bhatt's strong acting

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for his grand sets, spectacular visuals and excellent music. He spread the same magic in 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' as well. Every frame of the film seems to be an artistic depiction, which connects the audience emotionally.

Alia Bhatt played the character of Gangubai with such seriousness that it became her most memorable performance till date. Her confidence, dialogue delivery and body language make this character alive.

Blast performance at the box office

'Gangubai Kathiawadi' opened with 10.50 crores on the first day, which was the best start for a Hindi film after the pandemic. The film earned around Rs 129.10 crore at the domestic box office and Rs 209.77 crore globally. It became the fifth highest-grossing Hindi film of 2022.

Awards and critical acclaim

The film received a lot of praise from both audiences and critics. At the 2023 Filmfare Awards, Alia Bhatt won the Best Actress award, Prakash Kapadia and Utkarshini Vashisht won the Best Screenplay award and Sanjay Leela Bhansali won the Best Editing award. Apart from this, it won the Best Adapted Screenplay award at the 69th National Film Awards.

Cinematic legacy and impact on society

'Gangubai Kathiawadi' was not just a hit film, but it also became a strong example of women's empowerment. The film became the voice of those sections in the society which are often marginalized.

Even after three years, the film is still in the hearts of the people and its impact is getting deeper with time. It would not be wrong to say that 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' has become an important milestone in the history of Hindi cinema.