Bajirao Mastani (2015) User Reviews

A Well-Made, Well-Acted Motion-Picture!

[namashi_1 · 7/10 · 18 December 2015]

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Mangum-Opus 'Bajirao Mastani' finally arrives. Been in the news for more than a decade, this period piece, fortunately, is worth the wait. Its A Well-Made, Well-Acted Motion-Picture, that holds your attention at most times.

'Bajirao Mastani' narrates the story of the Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao I of the Maratha Empire (Ranveer Singh) and his second wife Mastani (Deepika Padukone).

'Bajirao Mastani' is epically mounted & Bhansali has Directed the film with enviable ambition. The scale of the film is something to watch! The visual appeal is tremendous. But, what makes 'Bajirao Mastani' further more memorable, is its human-conflict between its primary characters. The relationship of Bajirao & Mastani is sharp, and even the relationship between Bajirao & his first wife Kashibai (Priyanka Chopra), is compelling. Watching the warrior torn between love, politics & religion, often grabs your attention. I was involved in Bajirao's quest to give his women the respect they deserve, despite the evil-heads who intended to ruin it.

Having said that, 'Bajirao Mastani' isn't without its share of blemishes. While the first-hour is arresting, the second-hour takes a dip & the pace drops. Also, the film overstays its welcome by a good 20-minutes, that certainly needed some trimming. A crisper & sharper second-hour would've only enhanced the overall impact!

The Screenplay is fierce, but undeniably romantic & emotionally charged. The characters are nicely written out & so are their interactions. But, the second-hour needed a stronger punch. Bhansali's Direction is Grand. Its pure ambition, on celluloid. And the accomplished Filmmaker has handled the film with precision. Cinematography is Magnificent. Editing is mostly good, but it needed to be sharper. Art & Costume Design are flawlessly done. Action-Sequences are fabulously executed. Bhansali's Score is enchanting.

Performance-Wise: Ranveer Singh is extraordinary Bajirao. The terrific actor sinks his teeth into the part & delvers a phenomenal performance. Right from his flawless Marathi diction, to his correctly done body-language, Ranveer scores a home-run. Deepika Padukone is wonderful as Mastani, portraying her part with complete honesty & understanding. Priyanka Chopra shines as Kashibai. She's in great form here. Tanvi Azmi as Radhabai, Bajirao's widowed mother, is electrifying. Its a pleasure to watch the veteran cast in a role that offers her scope to show her brilliance!

On the whole, 'Bajirao Mastani' is definitely worth a watch.

Wonderful to look at - a great showcase for Indian film

[gwat-2 · 8/10 · 18 December 2015]

I went to see this film while my wife was at the ballet. I don't watch many Bollywood films, and usually the lighter kind, so I was coming to this film with almost no context. Also, to me, this was a foreign language, subtitled film so I missed any subtleties of language.

I really liked it. It was a true epic, wonderfully staged with seamless CGI and a consistent mellow look and feel to it. The leads (and lots of others) were really handsome/beautiful, and excellent actors. The dancing and singing was great and the story was well told. The costumes were sumptuous - Mughal miniatures come to life.

To an Australian this was of course an exotic film, so although it was slow there was always something to be looking at and wondering about. On the con side, the Hindu / Moslem theme was hammered home rather obviously, the Brahmin priests were one-dimensionally nasty, and (apart from one boatman) everything took place in a idyllic palace bubble - punctuated by a few battles.

However I would recommend this to anyone who wants to enjoy an epic cinematic experience Indian-style.

A must watch, complete balance between history and drama

[singhrohan-89622 · 8/10 · 18 December 2015]

the most awesome movie of this year came in the end that is Bajiao Mastani, there are no complaint about this movie from my side because there was no flaw in it except some of the cinematic errors. Even though I don't understand why it is reviewed 5.9 on IMDb after this. The things I like about the movie was that everyone acted perfectly, and everything was according to historical time line(sort of). Really like how Ranveer Singh and been moulded like an actor, Priyanka Chopra too was nice but should have been given more dialogs and Deepika Padukone as mastani was awesome no one would have acted like her. Awesome direction By Sanjay Leela Bhanshali,full marks to him for that. In the end everything in the movie was fantastic. IT TOO GIVES AN MORAL THAT LOVE IS NOT BINDED BY RELIGION. By which i come to the point that it delivers on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love with Drama cliché's. On funny note I want to say that we've got Joffery Baratheon of Indian Film industry. The pairing of the movie was also fantastic, I thought after Goliyoon ki Raaslella the paring wouldn't work. And the movie was poetic too. The sets were awesome. On the Negative side there were lot of Overacting done by the actor Ranveer Singh, first I thought it was the script then I thought it was his acting, and there were some useless dialogue placement in the movie too which were not required at all. If this points were taken care off then it was surely 10/10 from my side.( I started grading it from 6) BOTTOM LINE: AN Awesome MOVIE, ONES WHICH WE CAN REMEMBER AND ALWAYS KEEP IN OUR DVD CASE.

A stunning visual extravaganza - doesn't really reach the heart content-wise but who cares when it's so impossibly beautiful

[Peter_Young · 6/10 · 27 September 2022]

Okay, one can expect exactly that with a Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The man sure knows his stuff when it comes to photography and even when something is lacking in the storytelling department, this remains an almost inconsequential detail by the end of the show. This was true for previous Bhansali productions, including Devdas, which was actually a good film in and of itself, while my personal favourite in this regard is probably Saawariya, which was so overwhelmingly stunning I could watch it anytime just for how beautiful it is to look at. Bajirao Mastani is an epic romance, and it definitely works in both story and execution, but it's not a tremendous show as it never really manages to tug at the heartstrings despite its strong story. I wish I could allow myself to get more involved in the story and feel more for the characters and their travails, but it didn't really happen, also probably due to the fact that it's an epic, distant and larger-than-life style of execution, but more because it lacked some depth here and there.

But again, the visuals, oh the visuals - Bhansali is a true craftsman in this regard, and no one can take it from him. The amazing setting, the props, cinematography, the lighting, the extraordinary, impeccable attention to detail, the symmetry, make for a visual treat the kind of which you rarely see. What about the film itself, you ask? Well, it's interesting and captivating, and the music is phenomenal as well. The three leads are really good, particularly Chopra who gets the meatiest part of a woman driven by jealousy, ego, in spite of which she finds room in her heart for compassion and forgiveness. Deepika is stunning, and Ranveer Singh is a good lead whose every expression is clearly carefully thought out before. It also has a phenomenal Tanvi Azmi whose every turn over the past decade has been impressive. At the end of the day, Bajirao Mastani provides viewers with exactly what they want - entertainment and aesthetic delight, and in this regard, the film is a delightful cinematic experience. Pure delight.

A fantastic and classic epic romance! A must watch!!

[vrush-69308 · 10/10 · 17 December 2015]

This movie had already garnered expectations of epic proportions due to the cast, crew and the director, Mr. Sanjay Leela Bhansali. This movie had been in the making for over a decade and hence had already created ample curiosity in the moviegoers minds.

After watching the movie, I was at a loss of words. I don't even know where to begin! The music, screenplay, acting, dialogues and the beautiful story of 3 complex characters - everything is magnificent and spectacular! This movie is poetry in motion, easily one of the most epic tales in Indian history being translated in such a classy yet relatable manner on screen! Each scene and each dialogue gets the viewers completely hooked! People were involved and taken back into the 18th century - such was the appeal of the movie!

The acting is PHENOMENAL! Ranveer Singh has always delivered fabulous performances, but this performance will be remembered until the end of his career as the performance that catapulted him into the hearts of the Indian cinema lovers. He has done a beyond brilliant job and as a viewer, we laugh, cry and root for him throughout the movie! He's the out and out star of the film. Priyanka Chopra is her usual magnificent self, nothing else can be expected of her after delivering award winning performances in Barfi and Mary Kom. She lights up the scenes she's in. It's amazing how she's good at dance, acting and emoting on screen! Her pain as Bajirao's first wife is captivating and makes the viewers feel for her! What else can be said about the ruling queen of Bollywood, Deepika Padukone, that hasn't already been written!! She is a spectacle all by herself! She makes us cry, laugh, weep, and look at her in awe! She's fabulous in the kathak number, "mohe rang do laal" and she shines in every scene of the film! Especially in the scene where she meets kashibai and in the scene where she is jailed! Her eyes are truly the window to Mastani's soul! She matches Ranveer''s energy and their chemistry is undoubtedly historic and classic! What fabulous acting! The supporting cast is a marvel in itself, Tanvi Azmi as Bajirao's mother is fantastic! Her acting abilities are par excellence, couldn't have imagined anyone else in that role!

The music, costumes, scenery, sets and decor are exquisite! Nothing less can be expected from an SLB film! This movie is easily one of the top 5 cinema experiences in the past 10 years! It excels in both content and creativity! I will definitely be watching the movie again, it's simply addictive and outstanding and leaves a lasting impression on the viewers mind. A 10/10 experience! Loved it.

Deepika performs below expectations!

[jahangirhussain74 · 23 December 2015]

Seriously, I was expecting more from Deepika Padukone in Bajirao Mastani since she is one of the eponymous character in this movie and she can be called this generation's female Bollywood superstar no doubt after her brilliant outing in Piku and Tamasha. Sadly, Deepika failed to live up to my expectations. Her dialogue delivery is so weak in some scenes and her dance in the "rang do mohe lal" song just lacks the charm and grace. She seems like a complete misfit for the role of Mastani and looks too tall and modern to be able to carry off the royal look. Deepika just made me feel the need of the supremely talented Aishwarya Rai in many scenes. She just doesn't have varied expressions. Her last scene with her son where she tells him to go with the guards was supposed to melt our hearts. But sadly, it does not. Deepika just seems to be struggling with her emoting abilities. Also, her face when she gets out of a palanquin induces a laugh from audience. Wooden expression at its best! Surprisingly, it's Priyanka Chopra who stole the show from under Deepika's nose despite being a supporting (or is it?) character. Her confusion, anger and jealousy after learning of her husband and Mastani's (Deepika) love is really well etched. Priyanka seems to have developed a knack for stealing the show in every single movie of hers. With this movie, the stage is all set for Ranveer Singh to claim the throne of this generation's super star from the Khan trio. This guy is just something else. The way he masters the Marathi accent and the fight scenes is just wow! No one can be Bajirao other than Ranveer! He nails it like a pro. The only sore thumb of this movie is sadly Deepika Padukone! It's really sad how she ends up being overshadowed despite being the central character. Even Tanvi Azmi as Bajirao's mother gives a strong account of herself but Deepika simply fails to do so!

A well-directed movie; Brilliant acting by Ranveer and Priyanka

[TFan99 · 7/10 · 19 December 2015]

Nice costumes, great cinematography and good music, lyrics and direction of the movie. Performance-wise: Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra followed by Deepika Padukone. Here are the ratings. Ranveer Singh: A; Priyanka Chopra: A; Deepika Padukone: B+; Overall, a great movie to watch. Ranveer Singh did his career-best performance. That was amazing to watch him prepare for and act as Bajirao. Priyanka Chopra completely eclipsed Deepika Padukone. Bhansali should have switched roles for PC and DP. PC is at her splendid best that showcased her acting brilliance. This was quite evident when the duo danced together. Overall, PC is a much better actor than DP in this movie. Deepika Padukone did whatever she could. Overall, a great movie to watch!!!

'Bajirao Mastani' transforms into 'Bajirao Kashi' - Liberty of cinema ★★★★★

[kyasaar · 10/10 · 19 December 2015]

The Story, Overview and Music:

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is back with his 12 years old dream he nurtured like a baby titled as 'Bajirao Mastani', which is Bollywood's magnum opus and a reply to Tollywood's Bahubaali. Enthralling from beginning to end, the movie doesn't contain a single boring moment which is a huge plus point for its genre which can often be cumbersome and boring. And that can be large attributed to the visual aesthetics. Each and every frames are picture-perfect shots. From the very opening credits, you know that you are going to travel into a divine universe unraveling the 500 years ago's history (the 1700's). The sets and art direction are so well crafted, huge and super grand. Visual poetry on screen. Kudos to the set designers. The costumes, before describing, I would love to salute Anju Modi (costume designer) and Sanjay's vision of the past. Yes, they have rendered their imagination into a visual bonanza indeed. Ornamental is the perfect word. Every color that was picked for the costumes reflected a mood in addition to visual appeal. Applause! The cinematography is par excellence. The screenplay is multi- dimensional. It leaves you thirsty to know more. The background score is the "cherries on the cake". It is soothingly melodious in romantic scenes while explosive in war scenes. The action and the wars are new in Bollywood. First time a movie from Indian has excelled in such scenes. And the dialogues are a marvel. Very few films get you hooked up by its dialogues and Bajirao Mastani is one of them. There are many lines you will take home: the 'Guroor' one is pure cinematic and the 'Cheete ki chaal,..' is beautifully written and used cleverly. As for the music, the album has 10 tracks and SLB as the music director has done a magnificent job. The album is a beautiful blend of Marathi folk and Persian/Muslim influences. So, technically, the film is far superior than any Hindi movie I have seen in the last decade or so. The introductory portions in which they narrate the Peshwa's conquests using semi- animation/CGI were brilliantly performed. It's definitely one of the best of 2015. You are simply left mesmerized. You really are! The story of the film, I'll leave it for you to catch. I won't be a spoiler. I will just say that it is surely a love- triangle but one with a big difference.

Star Performances:

Ranveer Singh as the Peshwa Bajirao Ballad.- He is unbelievably good. Looks, body language, Maratha accent, physical strength in the war scenes. Hats off. I was skeptical about Malhari but it fits perfectly fine. His eyes spoke so many feelings. The anger, the love, the guilt, the passion, the pride, simply a WOW. I have always believed he's got a stupendous amount of untapped talent, and boy does this movie bring out the crazy range of acting skills that he possesses. He hit the right notes at all points. Mark my word, his performance shall make you a fan if you are not. This goes as his career best performance. He should win all 'Best Actor' awards for this. Deepika Padukone as the warrior princess is a marvel. She is beautiful, charming and stuns in songs like Deewani Mastani (I heart heart emoticon her in that). Her restrained half-Persian nuanced acting seemed to jump out less. Her character is one-dimensional. That's the minus point. Her biggest weakness being her poor kathak and you will feel sometimes in war scenes, she just lacked it and in romantic scenes, she went quite below par. Maybe due to parallel filming. She is undoubtedly a treat to watch but is overshadowed by Ranveer and Priyanka in acting. Nevertheless, she gives a remarkable performance but not her best. Priyanka Chopra as the Peshwin Queen Kashibai – *Breathe* Kashi was the most complex character of the film. It's an arc immensely enjoyable act at the same time heart- breaking. Kashibai might be an image of helplessness but it takes such strength for a woman to respect and protect the other woman your man fell in love with. Priyanka Chopra is terrific, her intelligently expressive eyes speaking volumes, she stood out in her Marathi intonations and prosody. Her no- nonsense Marathi rhythm was bang-on. Her each expression is layered with a thousand emotions, her dialogue delivery is pitch perfect and even in her dance her footwork is crisp and nimble. She crossed expectations in the film. She gets your eyes teary and your heart in pain. Her scenes are the highlights of the film and she owns them. In confrontation scene with Deepika where she goes "Dil? Kaisa dil?" gives you goosebumps. She knows her husband loves Mastani but she loves her husband. She can't hate him. The day she married Bajirao, she swore to support her man in his all decisions that make him happy. She knows her husband is no longer hers yet she doesn't want to lose him. The 'Guroor' scene where she calls her husband and tells him to go with his second wife is the scene of the year. In the climax, she comes to her ill husband but the latter calls her Mastani in hallucination and at that very moment you can feel her. She is devastated yet she pleases her husband by acting like Mastani. The lovers Bajirao and Mastani die but it is Kashi who is left behind all alone in pain. She takes forward the journey and raises Mastani's son as hers together with her two other sons. Priyanka's Kashi is so vivid that Deepika's Mastani pales in her comparison. In short, Priyanka Chopra has given a lifetime performance. You won't believe that the same Ranveer-Priyanka who played siblings in Dil Dhadakne Do have given such a soaring chemistry as husband-wife. Watch out for their love making scene. It's HOT. At the end Ranveer stands out, Deepika shines but Priyanka outshines. She leaves a legacy behind.

The visual treat retreats

[Swapnilagarwal · 7/10 · 19 December 2015]

Another historical tale, a visually authentic one after 'Jodha Akbar'.

• Top class performances by all actors - Ranveer outclasses as Bajirao with his awesome acting, 10/10 marathi accent and accurate mannerisms.

• Priyanka is awesomely graceful and exhibits perfectly, insecurities and mixed emotions of Kashibai.

• Deepika aka Mastani looks breathtakingly beautiful in each frame and gives yet another class act after Tamasha

• War scenes have been shot well and look authentic

• Cinematography is classic and matches the grandeur of a SLB film

• Music is more marathi folk style. However, too many songs spoil the rhythm of otherwise well knit screenplay

• 2nd half is sluggish and dragged and this is where movie suffers

Overall its a visual treat for eyes and literally takes you to the medieval era of peshwas, an unexplored terrain in Bollywood so far.

Priyanka acting was superb Bajirao Mastani a watch movie

[rohitsaroj33-874-83975 · 10/10 · 18 December 2015]

Ranveer acting was great direction and music was superb Deepika looking beautiful location screen great a must watch a movie for everyone in your life everything is great go watch... Priyanka Chopra, on the other hand, is the better performer of the two in this film. Priyanka's Kashibai loves her husband to death. Each time Priyanka looks at Ranveer Singh her face lights up like a brightly-lit skyline. When Bajirao falls in love with another woman Kashibai doesn't surrender to destiny. She is no walkover. She protests. She sneers. She is angry. But finally for the sake of her husband's happiness and the larger good, she accepts the situation. Kashibai teaches us the most important lesson of this film. Acceptance of injustice is sometimes the opposite of cowardice. Priyanka conveys all these emotions with near-flawless comprehension of her character's inner world. This is her best to date.

Faux historical with some great acting!

[sanwit · 6/10 · 20 December 2015]

This is undoubtedly one of the better movies to come out of Bollywood this year. And that's saying something, since this year is almost at its end. Tremendous acting from Ranveer's Peshwa Bajirao. This is a pure work of fiction, with some borrowed historical elements. However, Bhansali manages to recreate a believable world, and the actors back him up. Being a musical, the music is from the director himself, and suits the movie. Priyanka as Kashi Bai, and Deepika as Mastani also give no cause for complaints. But Bhansali is getting repetitive with the endings in his movies. No spoilers, but it's always great to watch something new, and not to go to the movie hoping it would not play out like some other movie :(

excellent movie. much needed breath of fresh air

[prashantnakil · 10/10 · 18 December 2015]

this movie helps restore the fast depleting hopes with Bollywood movies. The passion with which this movie is made shines through some class acts from each involved. the animation and sets allow a submerging experience. Ranveer offers a brilliant performance and a very promising future. His accented Hindi and well pronounced Marathi complete him in his role as Bajirao.

Deepika and Priyanka are best fits in their roles and don't feel off track even for a bit. Priyanka does a good job of conveying with her expressions more than her words. The placement of songs is done nicely.

a must watch for all moviegoers and history enthusiasts. the movie leaves us all with a good message at the end.

Bajirao Mastani is SLB's spectacle,its a emotional/tragic love story but comes up short of an masterpiece.

[jmoneyjohal · 7/10 · 18 December 2015]

Bajirao Mastani is a Magnus Opus, there are no two opinions on that, its Sanjay Leela Bhansali's most ambitious project, he waited almost 15 years to make this project,but does the film live up to its huge expectations people hold(especially after viewing the trailer). Well honestly even after watching the film, I don't have a clear answer. BM shows brilliance at many instances, the film is almost a tribute to Mughal-E-Azam, because the sets, the colours,the production values are some of the best you will seen in any Hindi film. The film is so beautiful that one can't take there eye off the screen. SLB is a cinematic genius when it comes to creating the time of yore. BM is based on the true story of Bajirao, Mastani, and Kasha Bai, but since I don't know any accurate details of there lives,I don't know how accurate the history is. The film also boast of some of the best action I have seen on the Indian screen, and how can one forget about, the career best performances of all the leads. The music perfectly blends in with the theme of the film. BM has so many positives, however the film does falter a bit and comes short of a masterpiece. But honestly hats off to SLB the modern day K Asif.

Story wise BM takes off with Bajirao being appointed the Peshwa. Soon, Mastani seeks his help to save her kingdom. Although Bajirao is already married to Kashibai,love blossoms between Bajirao and Mastani.

Acting wise Ranveer Singh lived the role of a Martha Warrior Bajirao, hats off to Ranveer to giving a performance of a life time so early in his career. I applaud him, for his career best act, watch out for the scene when he goes into his final battle alone, that scene is pure cinematic genius Well what can I say about Deepika Padrone who before this film I regarded as one of the best actress alive, she just adds to her resume with BM, and this might be one of her best acts ever. Her action scenes are on par with Ranveer, she emotes like no other, and she is also extremely elegant during the whole runtime. Priyanka Chopra steals the show whenever she is on screen, she also just keeps on touching new heights with every act. Watch out for the confrontation between her and Deepika before the Pingaa song, her anger and frustration burns the screen on fire. Other than the main leads Tanvi Azmi impresses with her menacing act, she is downright unforgiving and cruel as the widowed highly religious mother of Bajirao.

BM is a forbidden/tragic love story. Things such as hindu, Muslim, being the 2nd wife, having a illicit relationship are all very important topics touched upon in this historical love story, and all this done in proper way without hurting any sentiments.Actually one most note that for a film based almost 200-300 years back Bajirao and co were very forwarding thinking, and these topics make the film thought provoking at many instances, especially the religious elements. But at the heart of the film BM is a tragic love story of two warriors, who were hated but all, but loved deeply. SLB gets all the emotions in the film right, one feels for all three of leads in the film. The angst, the sorrow, the love, the longing, all these emotion are on full display in the film. SLB gets the best out of his actors and the chemistry between Ranveer and Deepika is as good as her's with Ranbir and thats say a lot. BM is quite possibly the most expensive (or one of the most)film ever made in the Hindi film industry and it shows, it easily one of the most beautiful, most elegant film I have seen. Your eyes will light up while seeing these modern day Mughal-E-Azam type Sheesh Mahals, SLB paints the most beautiful painting on screen. The film has two main action scenes which are some of the best action sequences ever seen in bollywood, Ranveer's last battle fight is the films highlight like I mentioned before. Nobody comes up with, or shoots songs as well as SLB, Deewani Maastani is my favourite, but whole film has instant classic songs, that are shot as beautifully as can be .The VFX is done well too.Now one might think with so much going for BM that the film is a masterpiece well it falls short and this is because of the story/screenplay. While the story was apt, the films timeline was totally muddled,for example we at one instance see Bajirao's kids being born and then all of sudden there already walking and talking. At one instance there is a battle going on, and then all of a sudden Mastani is in Pune. SLB portrays years like days. The film also after interval moves very slow at snails pace, and until the pre-climax not much happens . The climax of BM is very weird, and though I could understand it, its too poetic for the regular cinema going audience to accept. These are some minor blemishes, but when making a Magnum Opus these things need to be taken care. Seem as though SLB was rushed to finish the film on the pre Xmas date (by the producers), if more time given these flaw would have been done with I believe. But still the genius SLB needs to applauded for what he has created, a film like this,is rarely seen on the Indian screen.

Overall Bajirao Mastani is a must watch for all, to see a spectacle however the minor flaws it has, this tragic love story needs to be watched to learn about the forgotten Indian history and also to feel the lovers angst through SLB's eyes, his cinema needs to be encouraged,to get more beautiful films like BM.

3.5/5* or 7/10

A Blueprint on Over-Indulgent and Pretentious Cinema

[DareDevilKid · 4/10 · 26 January 2016]

Reviewed by: Dare Devil Kid (DDK)

Rating: 1.9/5 stars (0.4 stars solely for Ranveer Singh's performance)

From the first frame, you know you are in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film. Everything is scaled up, grander than grand. It's all razzle- dazzle, the way only Sanjay Leela Bhansali can turn it on. And then we tear our gaze away from the lush sets and the gorgeously attired actors – Priyanka Chopra as Bajirao's wife Kashibai, Deepika Padukone as the film's eponymous Mastani ( lover, concubine, second wife all rolled into one) and the equally beauteous Ranveer Singh - and demand the very thing we come to the movies for: a story unfolding on screen.

But we chance upon that story only sporadically, in between all the song-and-dances and the set-pieces in the battlefields and the palaces and the sparkling chandeliers, which keeps bringing us back to our original query: Where's the plot point?

Also, distorting history and not getting things perfect is one thing, but when a historical figure, revered and honored as much as the great Maratha Peshwa Bajirao is reduced to a new day Ranbir Kapoor in love, then that doesn't sit right by me, regardless of any number of disclaimers at the start. Thankfully, the film doesn't even pretend to be a faithful document of the events that took place in the early 1700s, when the Maratha Empire was in its ascendancy. The facts, such as they are recorded, are not allowed to weigh heavy upon this pretty edifice. There is some chatter of the "debauched Dilli Darbar" and ambitions for "poora Hindustan"; a few kohled, bearded Mughal invaders show up with their armies, and there a couple of scenes featuring a crafty Nizam. But these are stray mentions, and mere diversions - the real action in "Bajirao Mastani" is in the bedrooms and boudoirs and hallways, between Bajirao and brave Bundalkhandi lass Mastani, with Kashibai valiantly fighting a rearguard action.

It is hard to imagine anyone else as Bajirao after Ranveer finishes chewing up the part and cracking the Marathi accent. He absolutely owns the film with his swagger, strut, passion, diction, bravado, and remarkably restrained emotions - an actor truly enjoying himself in a role. Priyanka's acquiescing wife has a couple of strong moments ( in fact, the only remotely felt sequence in the film belongs to Chopra and Tanvi Azmi - Bajirao's widowed, ambitious mother - as they ponder over the meaning of love and betrayal, and the man they are tied to). Padukone looks lovely as usual but hasn't melded with the part. Her Mastani is all dressed up but the performance is wishy- washy. She starts off smiling oddly through grim dialogues but has the exact same expression boys with lightsabers sport while making their own sound effects. Her Mastani is obsessed with Bajirao, and while it was perhaps the film's requirement that Padukone look giddily entranced, there are times when she appears completely lost. It doesn't help that she's entirely eaten up by Priyanka Chopra, who, while not in the title, holds her own against Ranveer's character with selflessness and dignity. Chopra's terrific in the part, her intelligently expressive eyes speaking volumes and her no-nonsense Marathi rhythm bang-on.

Bhansali, for what it's worth, has gone all out with this one. He's made warrior girls play the banjo; he's made Old Spice salesmen look old; he's created outrageous subtexts about husbands and wives getting each other wet; and he's even saluted world cinema and raised a few red lanterns. But too quickly you tire of all the showiness. The grandiosity wears off. You long for a genuinely moving, exciting story, featuring all these beautiful actors, most of whom are able to pull off characters, but buried under their mounds of clothes. If only he had more to say than the fact that he loves "Mughal-e-Azam".

Great

[0U · 23 February 2020]

Bollywood reached its cinematic greatness in Bajirao. The sequence, the camera work and story telling at its best. All the actors' performance were notable. Very well put together. Bajirao Mastani just set new standards in Bollywood industry. Nothing recent comes close.

Spectacular visuals but falls short

[Shwethascar · 7/10 · 20 December 2015]

Watched Bajirao Mastani. Must say I was disappointed. Not because the movie was bad. By any standard of cinematography and direction, it was tremendously beautiful, but then which SLB's movie isn't? Perhaps I had raised the bar for it in my mind too high?

Here's my gripe with the movie: 1. Editing: very shoddy. Scenes just jumped around with little to no transition. There seem to be two stories told in the movie, the triangle love story and the battles. There was no fluidity in the editing between the two. 2. Bajirao and Mastani: in terms of acting, everyone did a good job. However, I felt like I have seen Deepika as Mastani in other movies as well. She was really good but I wanted to see a phenomenal performance (high expectations). Ranvir's acting is probably his career best but it still falls short in a few scenes. Some of it looks forced and tedious. Coming to the characters of these two, it's hard to like a movie and connect with it when you don't feel empathy for the leading characters. The two love struck characters are clearly shown in grey. It is difficult to feel sorrow for the ailing couple when you know that their affair has caused pain to a loving wife. This made me most uncomfortable. When the narrator proclaimed their love as eternal, it didn't resonate with me as their love was infidelity on Bajirao's part. 3. Unnecessary songs: SLB has a knack for incorporating beautiful, visually stimulating songs into his movies. This one is no exception. However, there are a couple of songs like Pinga and Bajirao and boys' celebratory song which stuck out like a sore thumb in terms of placement in the movie. 4. Rushed ending: don't want to get into details and spoil the ending but it looked like SLB was tired of 12 years of thinking and making the movie and he just ended it. 5. Striking similarity to Devdas and a little bit of Jodhaa Akbar: this one may just be me, partly because Devdas is one of my favorite movies of all time and also because I have watched it more than a dozen times. BM has so many similar themes as Devdas. Take the premise of two women longing for love of their man (I agree this is a pretty common theme), the ethereal dialogues, the widowed mother who seems to be a thorn in B and M's love saga, the choreographed duet song-dance spectacle with Mastani and Kashibai, the eventual fall into intoxication of Bajirao (there's even a scene with him in water very much like Devdas towards the end), war strategy inspired by Jodhaa Akbar, the mirror hall song reminds me of maar dala and kaahe ched, etc.

Having said all the above, I still think it is a good movie, just not SLB's best.

Watch it for Priyanka's brilliant acting as the forgotten Kashibai in a small but significant role. She delivers her lines in full flow, tugs at your heartstrings and makes you feel her pain. Watch it for a beautiful coming together of spectacular costumes and set design, grand music and choreography, larger than life dialogues and theme. Watch it for the movie it is, just don't believe the hype or you're bound to be disappointed. 3/5.

What a fantastic movie by Sanjay Leela Bhansali

[faisalfaves · 9/10 · 17 December 2015]

Khamoshi, Black, Guzarish, Ram-Leela, Devdas and now Bajirao Mastani.

This enigma called Sanjay Leela Bhansali lives only so that he just make films which lives forever. With a stellar cast he unfolds another epic love story, 'Bajirao Mastani', which has been a 12-year long dream said by Sanjay. One of the best Director of Hindi Films, his vision is big and presentation is a class.

The music of 'Bajirao Mastani' is very pure and quite amazing. Beautiful music, beautiful locations, mind-blowing dressing and very energetic. Never saw a beginning of a movie as engaging as Bajirao Mastani. Its an epic film that leaves you wanting for more. I say, You must watch.

Defines Magnificence

[Pramitheus · 7/10 · 19 December 2015]

This is probably Sanjay Leela Bhansali's most epic and gorgeous movies. Almost perfection in depicting the period in which the movie is set. Plus points of the movie is led by Priyanka Chopra(unexpectedly), Deepika Padukone and Tanvi Azmi. Side roles by Milind Suman was also very well done. Now the thing about Ranveer Singh is that you can see him trying really hard to portray the warrior but it comes off as just an act and that is why it does not seem convincing. There are glimpses of brilliance but most of the time he ends up trying too hard. I will give kudos for his trying to do his best but I really thing Hrithik Roshan would have been a much better casting for the role of Bajirao.

The movie is a must watch on the big screen especially if you like period dramas and a fan of SLB's style of movies

Bajirao-Mastani should be lauded for surreal direction, exemplary CGI and commendable performances

[ketgup83 · 8/10 · 18 December 2015]

As the epic love-tale of Bajirao-Mastani releases today, my joy knew no bound to watch it which has been in the news for quite some as Sanjay Leela Bhansali was determined to make a film on the lives of Peshwa Bajirao, Kashibai and Mastani for a long time.Barring Bahubali and Jodhaa Akhbar, Bollywood audiences are accepting the period drama in a big way. Can Bajirao Mastani continue the trend ? Well, we have to wait and watch for it.

Bajirao Mastani tells the story about Baji Rao Ballal Balaji Bhat, widely known as Baji Rao I(played by Ranveer Singh), who was a brave warrior whose battlefield antics won him great accolades and praise from one and all. Much like his popularity on field, his personal life too was the center of attraction and his controversial love life with Mastani (Deepika Padukone) is the highlight of the film.

The talented director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who gave us some memorable films like Khamoshi, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam , Black and some forgettable films like Saawariya and Ram- Leela goes one step back and does a good research on the history and culture of Maratha Warrior, Bajirao, who has not been defeated in battle for a straight 41 times. Kudos to Bhansali and team of writers (screenplay by Prakash R. Kapadia, additional screenplay by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Mallika Dutt Gharde) for doing good job. The battle sequences (action director by Sham Kaushal) have been executed brilliantly. The production design (Sriram Kannan Iyengar, Sujeet Subhash Sawant, Saloni Ankush Dhatrak] is eye-catching and will take you back to the forgotten history. The costume-design is mesmerizing. Music by Bhansali is tuneful especially coupled with well-executed choreography in 'Deewani Mastani', 'Albela Sajan' and 'Pinga' ( this one will remind you of Dola Re from Devdas). Cinematography is mindblowing along with good background score that gels with the mood of the film. However, the editing is loose and screenplay falls apart to some extent.

Performance wise, it is Deepika Padukone all the way. She surprises with her charming , bubbly and yet fearless character whom you will fall in love immediately with her innocence. Ranveer Singh will hold your attention as powerful and mystical Bajirao and the actor exudes honoring performance. Priyanka Chopra does well as Kashibai. Tanvi Azmi is terrific.

Overall, Bajirao-Mastani should be lauded for surreal direction, exemplary CGI and commendable performances. Good 3/5

– Ketan Gupta

Will not be remembered as another Heer-Ranjha or Romeo-Juliet

[warriorspirit · 6/10 · 19 December 2015]

There is a dialogue in the movie, "From now on people will remember Bajirao Mastani in history" There are constant self-professed claims throughout the movie of how their love is going to be immortalized. Having watched the movie and then reading a quick blurb of the history of these star-crossed lovers it turns out that they were real people and Bajirao really did love Mastani and built a palace for her(like Shahjahan for Mumtaaz) and he really did come at loggerheads with the people of his own faith. The problem is on celluloid, the manner in which their love story has been presented is so stylized, artificial and choreographed, that I did not believe it was real. I was actually convinced by the end of the movie that it was all fictional and could not possibly have been real.

So what went wrong? The problem is Bhansali's own self-indulgences overpower the real life story of Baijaro Mastani. Bhansali is notorious for his indulgences in Devdas, Saawariya, Black and Guzzarish, but I have always forgiven him for those indulgences and recognized the works of art he created. But since Ram Leela he has really fallen in his art and his indulgences are becoming gratingly apparent. In this movie he pays homage to his own movies in the lavish musical numbers, 'Kahe Ched Mohe' and 'Dola re Dola" from Devdas, and this in itself is not problematic, what is problematic he lifted the same choreography styles, the same camera angles and movements, and in the case of 'Pinga' the same situation that leads to the song, of the two leading ladies meeting in a dramatic confrontation and then agreeing to celebrate a religious festival together dancing for the man they both love. But the difference here is, while in Devdas Paro forgives Chandramukhi, here Kashi and Mastani's resentment for each other remains. Furthermore, in Dola re Dola, the impropriety of a courtesan and an aristocrat coming together in dance caused a controversy and uproar, and here nobody bats an eye lid. And in this situation the backstory, the tension and the controversy of Kashi and Mastani dancing together was was much more intense, so it surprises me why Bhansali just glossed it all over. I can sympathize why the Peshwa descendants and historians are protesting. It was not necessary Mr Bhansali, not only did you mutilate history, but it was totally out of character.

The other indulgences Bhansali makes that ruins the story is in he how paces, directs and scripts the the meetings of Bajirao and Mastani. He is trying to make every meeting, every glance, every word shared sound like Shakespearean poetry and to enhance the profundity, many of their shots are in slow motion and the actors emote with the precision of a puppet. From the moment Bajirao and Mastani meet to the dramatic climax, I did not at once find their love story believable. They were supposedly in love from first sight, a classic trope of stories of star crossed lovers. I think one of the reasons why it did not feel it was real, was because of Bhansali the filmmaker wanting to make his presence felt in every beat.

I consider Bhansali to be one of the best directors in Bollywood, because he has his own unique signature aesthetic that is felt in his movies, every shot is immaculately designed, choreographed, lit and scored. Every sequence shows his craftsmanship. He even matches them to the mood, dialogue, sets and costumes. This is a hallmark of a great filmmaker, but when overdone, it is like seeing the mirrors during a magicians disappearing act. In this movie as a craftsman he exceeds himself -- oh what beautiful sumptuous imagery, gorgeous lighting, epic camera work, brilliant use of CGI. I had no idea Bhansali had such a deft handle on CGI. I found it even better than Rajamouli's 'Baahubali' the few war sequences looked much more realistic and polished. If you compare the volley of arrows sequences side by side from both movies, Bhansali's will come up trumps. Technically, this movie is the best Indian production to date. Bahubali part 2 is going to have a high standard to beat.

Ranvir Singh, Deepika and Priyanka give it their all, and while proportionately Deepika and Ranvir get the most screen time, it is Priyanka that emerges the most competent actor, because her acting is more natural. I felt her character the most, in particular when she confronts Bajirao and says "I gave you my all, but you took away my pride" Priyanka nails every beat. Ranvir and Deepika, poor things were overshadowed by Bhansali's own indulgences. Still, Ranvir is able to overcome this in the war sequences. Ranvir seems to be a natural in any boisterous scene, whether it is a war dance or an angry battle.

Overall: Mr Bhansali the craftsman exceeds Mr Bhansali the storyteller.

BajiraoMastani is sheer brilliance!

[varun-544-435590 · 9/10 · 18 December 2015]

Bajirao Mastani is sheer brilliance! An epic film that leaves you wanting for more.Realism as a word and theme remains obsolete in the exquisitely crafted world of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's fantasies.Visuals are elephantine.his characteristic style narrates his version of the story in a Mughal-e-azamesque scale of grandiosity, replete with breathtakingly beautiful sets (by Bhansali, Sujit Sriram and Saloni) elaborate and well thought of costumes and accessories (by Anju Modi) and dreamy cinematography. music, screenplay, acting, dialogues and the beautiful story of 3 complex characters - everything is magnificent and spectacular! This movie is poetry in motion, easily one of the most epic tales in Indian history being translated in such a classy yet relatable manner on screen! Each scene and each dialogue gets the viewers completely hooked! People were involved and taken back into the 18th century - such was the appeal of the movie! Ranveer is unbelievable & superlative as Bajirao. Priyanka chopra is amazing & Deepika padukone is just wow! This was your most nuanced performance till date !! Excellent .. !!

...a good attempt in regenerating history.

[MuviFan73 · 7/10 · 21 December 2015]

Bajirao Mastani is a movie that serves as a biography, highlighting the life and romance between of Peshwa Bajirao and his second wife Mastani. Mastani is introduced to Peshwa Bajirao when he prepares to move to Sironja, Madhya Pradesh. Mastani is introduced as a soldier sent from Bundelkhand who asks for help to protect Bundelkhand from Mughals. She creates quite a scene to make her agreement successful to Peshwa. The war is fought against Mughuls, Peshwa and Mastani come close and the war story along with family life move towards end. Peshwa and Mastani both die in end.

A core of a biography to succeed is the amount of research carried out in making the movie. Sadly here the film gains a negative mark on this point. Direction is good and the effects in given budget seems fair. Investment like in that of movie Bahubali could have been better. Acting is superb. Dialogs are good. The voice of Ranvir is as if a maharashtrian very new to Hindi is saying the dialogs. Now my problem, I cannot relate with the amount of mutual respect between Bajirao his family and Mastani. Kings men use to have various wives, but that's something I can't consume. Ranvir can definitely put some mass and look exceptional, yeah he is good now. For the movie, I would say a good attempt in regenerating history.

Rating: 6.5/10.

Magestic Indian Epic Drama of Bajirao Peshwa not to be missed

[avaclub · 10/10 · 18 December 2015]

Its an excellency of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, #BajiraoMastani is a Magestic Indian Epic Drama of Bajirao Peshwa. Whether its the majestic sets, beautiful music , performances of the star casts Sanjay Sir has excelled in each and every frame. After Baahubali this is one movie which is in Hindi originally that you can feel proud of watching it. Deepika is marvelous, Priyanka is excellent and ranveer singh is extraordinary.The song Deewani Mastani itself is a paisa vasool for the quality moviegoers.The war scenes are of world class and may remind you of any good war movies. Its a beautiful love story weaved in with the war plot.this is one movie which is not to be missed...Go for it

A cinematic spectacle marred by sombre tone, languorous pacing and lengthy runtime

[murtaza_mma · 6/10 · 21 December 2015]

Once again Sanjay Leela Bhansali aims for a Shakespearean Tragedy of Epic proportions and once again he falls short by some distance. Having said that, there is no denying that ‪‎Bajirao Mastani‬ is the definitive cinematic spectacle of the year as far as Hindi cinema is concerned.

The majestic sets, glittering costumes and swashbuckling performances add up quite well. Perhaps, making the moving in 3D would have been a good choice. Playing the legendary Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao, Ranveer Singh delivers the finest performance of his career. The way he takes care of his mannerisms and his Marathi accent in particular is really commendable.

As for Deepika Padukone, she has never looked prettier on the celluloid. Credit to Bhansali for looking after her leading lady so well. Priyanka Chopra playing the second fiddle to Padukone is solid as ever.

Despite all its merits Bajirao Mastani may leave some cold owing its rather sombre tone, languorous pacing and lengthy runtime. While it may not to the epic that it aims to be, it certainly deserves to be watched.

For more on the world of cinema, please visit my film blog "A Potpourri of Vestiges".

so we now cheer for adultery?

[amchipandey · 4/10 · 21 December 2015]

So when did we become a society that roots for cheating couple? Religion and class aside, the basic premise of the film is rooted in adultery. Mastani can call it love, ibaadat, ishq, mohabbat; at the end of the day she forced herself onto Bajirao and his family and 'stole' Kashi's man. Can you really blame the family for getting ticked off? Baji had many chances to stop her advances in their tracts but he was smitten by her and cheated on Kashi. Why have they been treated as heroes and glorify for them for close to 3 hours? Unless we have accepted polygamy as the norm, this movie is a no go from the start. The only reason this is more than a 1/10 is the stunning visuals and cinematography.