Review by mnalgirkar

This is such a sensitive portrayal of a simple story from simpler times. The rural India, the characters, and the plot depicted in this movie might now seem to be from a totally different era; however, it is easy to relate to the human drama unfolding in this movie in the context of the value system of the time.

Jitendra is restrained but dignified in his portrayal of the doctor who is one of the two central characters in this movie. Hema Malini is simply superb as Kusum; watch this movie to see what a fine actress she was even relatively early in her career, but you can also understand her "Dream Girl" status in Hindi cinema.

Master Raju is hands-down the best child actor in Hindi cinema in my opinion, and you cannot help but be charmed by his role in this film. Fareeda Jalal is probably one of the most underrated actresses of Indian cinema, and together with Hema Malini, she simply shines in this movie. Asrani has a relatively small role, but as always, what would Hindi cinema of the 70's be without the rich supporting character roles played by this superb actor?

Throw the musical geniuses of R.D. Burman, Lata, and Kishore in the mix to render the beautiful poetry of Gulzar, and you end up with a complete masterpiece!