Deshwasi(1991)
Deshwasi is a 1991 Indian Hindi-language drama film directed by Rajiv Goswami and produced under the V.I.P. Films Combines banner. The film stars Manoj Kumar, Hema Malini, Poonam Dhillon, Mandakini, Satish Shah, Anupam Kher, and Om Shivpuri. The story follows a patriotic villager who rises against a tyrannical landlord oppressing his community. The narrative blends action, crime, romance, and social commentary typical of early 1990s Bollywood. The film is noted for its strong patriotic tone and Manoj Kumar's passionate performance. It was released in 1991 in theaters across India.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- SonyLiv, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 1991
- Director
- Rajiv Goswami
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 25m
- Rating
- 3.7/10
Storyline
A young man named Deshwasi loves his village and his country. A cruel landlord controls everything and hurts the poor. Deshwasi decides to fight back. He faces betrayal, loss, and violence. But he never gives up. He unites the villagers to defeat the landlord and bring justice.
“Love your country more than your life”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Deshwasi
Cast reunions in this film: Anupam Kher & Mahesh Bhatt (12 films together), Anupam Kher & Manmohan Singh (6 films together), Anupam Kher & Hema Malini (5 films together), Anupam Kher & Tom Alter (4 films together), Anupam Kher & Poonam Dhillon (3 films together), and Anupam Kher & Mandakini (3 films together).
Trivia
- This was the only film directed by Rajiv Goswami, who was primarily a film editor.
- The film's title 'Deshwasi' translates to 'Inhabitant of the Country', reflecting its rural political conflict theme.
- Actress Meenakshi Seshadri, who played Bharati, was known for dance roles but performed intense action sequences here.
- It was released during a peak period for vigilante dramas in Bollywood, following the success of films like 'Ghayal'.
- The movie was not a major commercial success but developed a cult following on television reruns in the 1990s.
- Shakti Kapoor, often a villain, played the heroic lead role of Shakti, which was a departure from his usual parts.
- The plot's twist involving the son's hidden agenda was a less common narrative for revenge films of that era.