Santosh(1989)
Santosh is a 1989 Indian Hindi-language social drama film directed by Balbir Wadhawan. The lead cast includes Manoj Kumar, Hema Malini, Rakhee Gulzar, and Shatrughan Sinha. The story follows Santosh, a poor village boy who discovers his wealthy mother abandoned him as a baby. He confronts her, but she rejects him, leading to conflict with his spoiled half-brother Kundan. The film explores themes of maternal betrayal, class division, and forgiveness. It is known for its strong emotional performances and moral storytelling. Santosh was released in India on February 28, 1989, and runs for 146 minutes.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, YouTube, ZengaTV
- Theatrical Release
- 28 February 1989
- Director
- Balbir Wadhawan
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 26m
- Rating
- 4.3/10
Storyline
A poor woman named Kamla abandons her infant son Santosh to return to a life of wealth. Years later, Santosh discovers his mother is alive and living in luxury. He seeks her love, but she rejects him. His wealthy half-brother Kundan plots to destroy him. Santosh must fight for his honor and find true family.
“A mother's betrayal, a son's forgiveness”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Santosh
Cast reunions in this film: Raakhee & Rakhee Gulzar (15 films together), Prem Chopra & Shatrughan Sinha (14 films together), Hema Malini & Shatrughan Sinha (12 films together), Hema Malini & Amjad Khan (11 films together), Prem Chopra & Nirupa Roy (11 films together), and Hema Malini & Prem Chopra (10 films together).
Trivia
- The film was produced by the director Balbir Wadhawan's own company, Wadhawan Films.
- Actor Jeetendra, who played the lead, was known for his dancing skills but this role was a more serious dramatic part.
- The movie's soundtrack was composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal, a popular music duo of the era.
- It was released during a period when family dramas about separated siblings were common in Hindi cinema.
- Actress Sridevi was initially considered for a major role but did not ultimately appear in the film.
- The plot shares similarities with the 1975 film 'Deewaar', which also features brothers on opposite sides of the law.
- Despite its dramatic story, the film did not become a major box office success compared to other releases that year.