Relevance of train journeys in Bollywood movie ‘Saathiya’

Two things are special in Saathiya. One is the non-linear storytelling technique and the other, trains. In fact, trains have been an integral part of Hindi cinema (popularly known as Bollywood). The metaphor, the metonym and the meanings associated with trains have been well addressed and explored in several Hindi films.

One such instance is Shaad Ali’s romantic drama Saathiya (2002), the Hindi remake of Mani Ratnam’s Alai Payuthey (2000). Saathiya, starring Vivek Oberoi and Rani Mukherji, is about a couple who elopes after their parents deny their relationship. Things go haywire when they live life on their own terms. They rejoice to be in their own paradise, till tiffs peep in.

Mani Ratnam and trains share a deep relationship. In several Mani Ratnam films, trains play a significant role. Trains in his films carry the narrative forward. In fact, in several Mani Ratnam films, people use trains as a mode of conveyance. Though most passengers do not seem to enjoy the journey, however short, others indulge in merry-making. From the very beginning of the movie, we see trains coming up and down, mostly carrying forward the story (in Saathiya).

We see a group of students enjoying their journey to their respective destinations (educational institutions). They enjoy ‘seeing’ girls, passing remarks and, of course, smoking. Trains take forward the narrative and become an integral part of the characters’ lives.

Aditya (Vivek Oberoi) sees Rani Mukherji (Suhani) for the first time on another train (since their trains run parallel and in opposite directions). Their eyes meet. However, the two trains continue running in parallel and in opposite directions. Obviously, it symbolises how the lives of Aditya and Suhani are different and are not meant to be one.

In another scene, we see Aditya approaching Suhani for knowing her name (train). Later, Aditya even proposes to Suhani on a train. She elopes with Aditya. After being 'thrown out' of their respective houses, both Aditya and Suhani cut all ties with their parents. However, it is the same train that brings a piece of bad news for Suhani. In fact, it also connects them.

She meets her mother and sister on a train. They inform her that her father is ill. The train depicts both good and bad times for her. The imagery associated with trains in Saathiya speaks volumes with little noise. The lives of Aditya and Suhani undergo changes with every passing local train. It also symbolises how middle-class (unemployed also) people use trains as their means of conveyance and communication.

Watching a Mani Ratnam film, even after two decades of its release, is nostalgic. Saathiya brings back all sweet memories associated with local trains. It is no wonder that the popular Bollywood hit song ‘Suhana Safar’ forms a part of Saathiya (Suhani and her sister hum it every time).

Dear Mani Ratnam, please make a comeback…

By Shanku Sharma

From: India

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