Filhaal(2002)
Filhaal (transl. Momentary) is a 2002 Indian Hindi-language romantic drama film directed by Meghna Gulzar in her directorial debut. The film stars Tabu, Sushmita Sen, Sanjay Suri, and Palash Sen. The story follows two best friends, Rewa and Sia, whose bond is tested when Rewa discovers she cannot conceive a child. Sia offers to become a surrogate mother for Rewa and her husband Dhruv. The film explores the emotional consequences of this decision on their friendship, marriages, and personal lives. Sushmita Sen received a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance. Critics praised the film for its sensitive handling of surrogacy, a taboo subject in Indian cinema at the time. Despite positive reviews, the film was a commercial failure. It was released on 1 February 2002.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, Apple TV, Eros Now, Airtel Xstream Play, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 2002
- Director
- Meghna Gulzar
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 35m
- Rating
- 5.5/10
Storyline
Rewa and Sia are inseparable best friends with very different dreams. Rewa wants a family, but she cannot have a baby. Sia offers to carry Rewa's child as a surrogate. This selfless decision strains their friendship, tests their relationships, and forces everyone to confront jealousy, love, and sacrifice.
“A bond tested by the ultimate sacrifice”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Trivia
- The film was inspired by a real-life story Meghna Gulzar heard about a friend carrying a baby for another friend.
- It was one of the earliest mainstream Hindi films to openly address the topic of surrogacy.
- The film's music composer, Anu Malik, won the Filmfare Award for Best Music Director for this soundtrack.
- Meghna Gulzar dedicated the film to her mother, the legendary actress Raakhee.
- Despite its sensitive subject, the film was not a major commercial success at the box office.
- The title 'Filhaal...' translates to 'For the moment...' or 'At present...' in English.
- This was one of the few films where both lead actresses, Tabu and Sushmita Sen, played characters close to their real age.