Sanshodhan(1996)
Sanshodhan (The Amendment) is a 1996 Indian Hindi-language drama film directed by Govind Nihalani. It stars Manoj Bajpayee, Vanya Joshi, and Anupam Shyam in lead roles. The story is set in the fictional village of Parmino in Central India. The government mandates that one-third of the village committee seats be reserved for women, including those from scheduled castes and tribes. The film follows Vidya, a woman who decides to contest the election, facing violent opposition from the male-dominated village leadership. Produced by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and UNICEF, the film is noted for its realistic portrayal of gender politics in rural India. It received critical acclaim for its social relevance and strong performances. The film was released in 1996 and runs for 165 minutes.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Epic On, Prime Video, JioCinema, Mubi, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 1996
- Director
- Govind Nihalani
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 45m
- Rating
- 4.6/10
Storyline
In the village of Parmino, the government orders that women must hold one-third of the village committee seats. Vidya, a brave young woman, decides to run for election. But the powerful men in the village threaten her and her husband Bhanwar. Vidya must fight against violence, tradition, and a rival candidate to win her seat.
“One law. One woman. One village changed forever.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Sanshodhan
Cast reunions in this film: Manoj Bajpai & Manoj Bajpayee (29 films together), Ashutosh Rana & Manoj Bajpai (2 films together), Manoj Bajpai & Kishore Kadam (2 films together), and Kishore Kadam & Manoj Bajpayee (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was based on a real-life 1993 constitutional amendment that reserved seats for women in local village councils.
- Govind Nihalani, known for intense dramas like 'Ardh Satya', chose this story to highlight grassroots political change.
- Actress Deepti Naval was initially considered for a lead role, but the part eventually went to another performer.
- It was shot on location in rural Rajasthan to capture authentic village settings and social dynamics.
- The film's title 'Sanshodhan' directly translates to 'Amendment', referring to the law change in the plot.
- Unlike many 1990s Hindi films, it had no songs or romantic subplots, focusing solely on its social drama.
- It received critical praise but had a very limited theatrical release compared to mainstream Bollywood movies.