Pestonjee(1988)
Pestonjee is a 1988 Indian Hindi-language drama film directed by Vijaya Mehta. The lead cast includes Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, and Shabana Azmi. The story is set in the Parsi community of Bombay during the 1950s and 1960s. It follows two close friends, Phiroj and Pestonjee, and the woman they both love. The film explores themes of unspoken love, marital unhappiness, and the gap between dreams and reality. It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and the National Film Award for Best Costume Design. The film is noted for its detailed depiction of Parsi culture and its strong performances. It was released in 1988 and is available on DVD through the National Film Development Corporation.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Epicon, Prime Video, Plex, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 1 March 1988
- Director
- Vijaya Mehta
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 15m
- Rating
- 4.1/10
Storyline
Phiroj and Pestonjee are best friends in 1950s Bombay. Phiroj falls in love with Jeroo but cannot decide to marry her. Pestonjee marries her instead. Years later, Phiroj visits them and discovers their marriage is broken. He must face the painful truth about love, friendship, and the life he never lived.
“Two friends. One bride. A lifetime of regret.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Pestonjee
Cast reunions in this film: Naseeruddin Shah & Shabana Azmi (14 films together), Anupam Kher & Naseeruddin Shah (12 films together), Anupam Kher & Kirron Kher (3 films together), and Anupam Kher & Shabana Azmi (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film was based on a Gujarati play called 'Pestonjee' by playwright Gieve Patel.
- It marked the Hindi film debut of veteran Marathi stage and film director Vijaya Mehta.
- Actor Naseeruddin Shah, who played Pirojshah, is not Parsi but learned specific mannerisms for the role.
- The movie was shot extensively in real Parsi colonies and fire temples in Mumbai.
- Despite critical praise, the film had a very limited theatrical release and was not a box office success.
- The soundtrack featured music by Vanraj Bhatia, known more for his serious compositions than typical film songs.
- It is considered one of the few mainstream Hindi films to focus deeply on Parsi family life and customs.