“Chilgam” is a short film that I found on YouTube, brought to you by CineShorts Premiere, starring fresh faces who are here to stay—Ruchika Rai and Rishabh Dhingra.
The storyline follows two young lovers, Ujma and Deepak, trying to find a solution to the problematic topic of dating and marriage in a ‘free India‘ that shuns relations between Hindus and Muslims (at least in the current toxic political atmosphere), but which shockingly approves of honour killings of two consenting adults!
The movie strikes a fine balance between the sweetness of love and the bitterness of hate, living up to its name—and proving that love is just like a piece of Chilgam (chewing gum) that starts out all juicy and sweet, but over time loses its flavor and sweetness due to being overcome by outside forces which break it down. While in case of the chewing gum, the opposing force is digestive juices, in case of interreligious love/marriage, that force is weaponising one’s religious beliefs.
On the acting front, Ruchika Rai has some lovely emotions and brought Ujma to life with her expressions alone. Ujma herself is a wonderfully written female character who aspires to break the religious barriers for love. She is a fine contrast to the man she loves, Deepak, who cannot make up his mind about standing up to society or accepting an uncertain fate—thus losing his lady love. Rishabh Dhingra does a fine job as Deepak, and the supporting cast do a commendable job as well.
All in all, “Chilgam” will give you enough to chew on in times of uncertainty and communal crisis, and is worth a watch.
You can watch “Chilgam” on YouTube by clicking here.
