Exploring the Heartfelt Journey of Ram Singh Charlie
A Dreamer in the Streets of Kolkata
Ram Singh Charlie embodies the essence of dreamers everywhere, reminiscent of the beloved Charlie Chaplin. Ram Singh, portrayed by Kumud Mishra, is a rickshaw puller in Kolkata, navigating life with aspirations that soar high even as he faces the harsh realities of the streets.
Once an entertainer at the Jango circus, Ram Singh finds himself in a world far removed from the spotlight after the circus closes its doors. The closure scatters the performers, leaving the dwarves to work as bar watchmen, enduring ridicule, while the violinist seeks refuge in a subway.
Despite his efforts to secure a better future, Ram Singh ends up pulling a rickshaw, using hands that once skillfully performed tricks. His wife, Kajri (Divya Dutta), and son, Chintu (Rohit Rokhade), support his dream of reviving their circus, but the chasm between aspiration and reality only grows wider.
A Timely Release Amidst Struggles
Directed by Nitin Kakkar, who co-wrote the film with Sharib Hashmi, Ram Singh Charlie has finally made its debut on SonyLIV after a long wait. The film's production reflects its vintage, showcasing a time before smartphones and the rise of short-form videos, making its theme of reviving traditional entertainment feel somewhat outdated.
However, the narrative of a migrant striving for a better life remains timeless. The film resonates deeply in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, where countless individuals have faced job losses and financial hardships. Ram Singh's desperate attempts to provide for his family evoke memories of another iconic Kolkata rickshaw puller, Shambhu, from Bimal Roy’s classic Do Bigha Zamin (1953).
A Blend of Fantasy and Reality
The screenplay, while occasionally uneven and featuring a hurried conclusion, successfully balances elements of fantasy with stark reality. In just over 95 minutes, Kakkar pays homage to Chaplin, capturing the enduring appeal of the comic legend's character. One of the standout moments occurs when Ram Singh and the whimsically named Shahjehan (Farrukh Deyer) engage in a conversation while dressed as chickens at a children's event.
Kumud Mishra's portrayal of Ram Singh is both poignant and relatable, as he navigates the duality of despair and hope. While his Chaplin impersonation may not be flawless, his ability to convey the essence of the Tramp is commendable. Mishra's subtle expressions and quiet demeanor allow him to explore the full spectrum of his talent in this role.
Supporting Characters Shine
Each actor portraying the circus performers, including the seasoned Lilliput, has moments to shine. Salima Raza, as the circus owner forced to close her business due to age and financial strain, delivers a memorable performance in her limited screen time. She reminds Ram Singh that the real circus exists beyond the confines of their former lives, a truth underscored by her unsympathetic son, Nabeel (Akarsh Khurana).
Divya Dutta excels as Kajri, Ram Singh’s supportive wife, yet her character is sidelined in the narrative. Despite being a circus artist herself, Kajri is portrayed primarily as the family's caretaker, reflecting a dated perspective on gender roles.
A Chaplinesque Tale
In this regard, Ram Singh Charlie mirrors Chaplin's work, focusing on the male protagonist's bittersweet journey while relegating the female character to the background. The film leaves viewers pondering how a woman might interpret Chaplin's enduring quest, as seen through Kajri's expressive eyes when she witnesses her husband's struggles.