Exploring the Journey of Mohammad Samad in 'Gattu'

A Heartfelt Tale of Childhood in 'Gattu'
Rajan Khosa's film, Gattu, showcases the journey of a young boy, emphasizing the importance of relatable content for children in cinema. This film presents a nuanced morality story about a poor boy who cleverly manipulates situations to his advantage, living with his uncle, portrayed brilliantly by Naresh Kumar.
The film cleverly subverts expectations by depicting the uncle not as a typical villain but as a complex character with both positive and negative traits. Gattu illustrates the gray areas in raising underprivileged children, highlighting that while child labor is illegal, it can sometimes provide necessary support for homeless kids. Gattu's desire for education is used as a ruse to outsmart his peers and teachers.
On the surface, Gattu appears to be a light-hearted exploration of childhood struggles, but it also thoughtfully examines the challenges of nurturing a child in poverty outside the conventional school environment.
The performances, especially by Mohammad Samad in the lead role, are captivating, showcasing a natural talent for engaging with the camera. Director Rajan Khosa delves into the innocence of childhood while revealing the cunning that often accompanies youthful ambition.
Gattu captures touching moments both in and out of school, advocating for universal education while maintaining a playful tone. The film offers a charming glimpse into a child's life as he navigates the contrasting worlds of poverty and education. Samad's portrayal of a boy aspiring to soar high is commendable, complemented by Sandesh Shandilya's uplifting music that adds to the film's charm.
Continuing the trend of meaningful films featuring child protagonists, Gattu joins the ranks of notable works like Taare Zameen Par and I Am Kalam. Mohammad Samad, who played the role of an orphaned street child, has a real-life background that mirrors his character's struggles. At just 12, he comes from a modest family in Roorkee, where his father runs a grocery store.
A fan of Salman Khan, Samad expressed his disappointment that Gattu won't be shown in his hometown, leaving his family unable to see his performance. He shared how his friends are amazed at his newfound fame, asking how he became a hero.
Before landing the role, Samad had no experience in acting. He auditioned for Gattu when the crew visited his school, eventually becoming one of the finalists. The subsequent workshops were challenging for him, but with guidance from Khosa and acting coaches, he learned to embody his character.
Despite initial fears about crying on camera, Samad managed to deliver a compelling performance. Following the film's release, he received positive feedback, with many encouraging him to pursue acting. Inspired by his admiration for Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, he aspires to follow in their footsteps.