Asha: A Heartfelt Tribute to Community Health Workers

Asha: Celebrating the Dedication of ASHAs

The film Asha features the talented Rinku Rajguru in a heartfelt homage to Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs). Portraying Malti, a devoted community service worker, Rajguru embodies a character deserving of the Padma Shri award.

Every day, Malti dons her vibrant azure sari and cycles long distances to bridge the gap between her village and the public healthcare system. She is both assertive and clever, challenging her in-laws (Dilip Ghare and Harsha Gupte) and persuading her husband Nilesh (Sainkeet Kamat) to support her commitment to public service. When she encounters the heavily pregnant and distressed Kamla (Shubhangi Bhujbal), Malti is determined to assist her.

This endeavor puts her at odds with Kamla’s traditional family and risks further straining her relationship with her in-laws and Nilesh. Nevertheless, Malti perseveres, aided by the wise Mai (Usha Naik) and the perpetually intoxicated driver Khopdi (Suhas Sirsat).

Directed by Deepak Patil and penned by Antariksh Srivastava, the film often resembles a polished public awareness campaign supported by the Union Health Ministry. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appears through a Maan Ki Baat radio segment, praising ASHA volunteers. However, the challenges they face, such as heavy workloads and delayed compensation, are only briefly acknowledged in this otherwise optimistic narrative.

Spanning 125 minutes, Asha manages to keep its idealized depiction engaging through humor, well-developed characters, and a realistic portrayal of societal attitudes towards women. Kamla’s story highlights the preference for male children, while Malti and her peers serve as inspiring examples of women's potential.

Malti’s domestic struggles reflect the difficulties faced by working women in rural settings. Rinku Rajguru’s genuine passion and vibrant energy significantly contribute to the film's success. Usha Naik also shines as the spirited Mai, who consistently devises clever plans to outsmart Kamla’s unpleasant family.

While the film may inspire women to consider becoming ASHAs as a noble way to serve their country, as Malti suggests, it is essential to recognize that the reality on the ground can be quite different.