"'A Suitable Boy' Is A Window Into An Exotic Indian Culture (Review)".
Mira Nair's 'A Suitable Boy' which is based on Vikram Seth's novel by the same name was released on Netflix last month. The show features some of the most talented actors from Hindi Cinema -Tabu, Rasika Dugal, Namit Das, Vijay Varma, Ram Kapoor. The newbie Tanya Maniktala and Ishaan Khatter also leave an impression.
It is the story that showcases the fortune of four families in North India in the post-partition turbulent background in the year 1951. It starts with Lata Mehra, a student of Literature, who is enjoying her sister's wedding. It is here when her mother decides to find 'A Suitable Boy' for her as well. Through the story, Lata's mother explores suitable boys for her along with the growing pains of a newly independent country.
Andrew Davies has adapted the book into a six-part series and it is quite evitable that the English dialogues are taken straight out of the source material. For an Indian audience, the dialogues make it a bit unrealistic and it lacks depth. However, what makes the show interesting is the beauty with which it has been shot with every period detail brought into life.
The best part of the show is its superb casting. Ishaan Khatter is proving his versatility with each new role of his. Tabu is as usual flawless. Tanya Maniktala's debut is noteworthy! The supporting cast gets their moment to shine and leave their mark.
All in all, 'A Suitable Boy' is a window into an exotic Indian Culture. The show is currently streaming on Netflix.
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