Nilofer, a toddler from a wealthy family and promised in marriage to Akhtar, is soon kidnapped by a family enemy and taken to a kotha (a courtesan's house). She grows up to become a Tawaif (courtesan) and falls in love with the same boy she was promised to. However, their union is not accepted by either family, as they are unaware of Niloufer's true identity.
Frankly, I couldn't connect with this film for a while, despite its high praise from others. I struggled to find any extraordinary aspect and almost fell asleep during the screening.
The lead pair lacked chemistry and didn't work for me. While Nutan is undoubtedly one of Indian cinema's greatest actresses, she seemed a misfit for the role of a Tawaif. Although she effectively conveyed emotions, she lacked the aura and sensuality typically associated with a Tawaif. Most of the time, she appeared to be a poor, struggling rural woman, much like in her other films. Madhubala or Meena Kumari might have been better choices. Pradeep Kumar's acting was ordinary and lacked appeal. Minoo Mumtaz, Om Prakash, and Johnny Walker performed well in their limited screen time, but their efforts couldn't sustain the film due to a weak script.
The film's pace is very slow; three-quarters of it is dedicated to establishing the backstory, followed by a sudden introduction of the central conflict, climax, and conclusion. Nakhshab Jarchavi failed to build the story effectively and lacked creativity. Dramatic moments could have been enhanced with realistic, poetic dialogues instead of childish, slow ones. The film suffers from zero character development and a predictable ending. The story bears a resemblance to 'Pakeezah' but doesn't capture even one percent of its aura.
The production design, particularly the enchanting sets of the kotha, was commendable. However, improved cinematography could have better captured the beauty of the sets. The editing was decent. Costumes and makeup were also good but not exceptional. The choreography by Lachhu Maharaj was a major disappointment, lacking his signature expressive style.
Nashad's music is somewhat disappointing. While the background score appropriately matches the kotha's atmosphere and includes some beautiful mujra songs, the soundtrack lacks any memorable, repeatable songs. Most of the tracks are slow-paced. The sound design was good, and the dialogue had clarity even in a poor-quality print.
In conclusion, 'Zindagi Ya Toofan' is an average film with significant disappointing factors, and I would not recommend it.
