Mumbai, India – The critically acclaimed Gujarati film “Hellaro,” celebrated for its vivid portrayal of women’s empowerment, is set to make its streaming debut on ShemarooMe starting October 2, 2024, coinciding with the Navratri festival. The film is notable for being the first Gujarati film to clinch the National Award for Best Feature Film, touching hearts with its stirring narrative of women challenging the confines of their oppressive culture.
“Hellaro” has not only captivated audiences but has also shone brightly at various eminent film festivals, amassing worldwide accolades. It received a Special Jury Award at the National Film Awards, crediting the impeccable performances of its thirteen female leads, and earned a Special Mention for its signature music and choreography at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
The narrative centers on a group of subjugated women in a Kutch village whose encounter with a mysterious stranger wielding a drum heralds the beginning of their transformatory journey. As they embrace the beats of the drum, these women find the rhythm of freedom and self-expression through the traditional dance of Garba, defying the harsh constraints of their patriarchal society.
Director Abhishek Shah shared his reflections on the movie’s profound impact. “Bringing ‘Hellaro’ to life was more than a filmmaking endeavor; it was a highly personal exploration of the societal attitudes towards women,” Shah remarked. “Securing the National Award was a moment of immense pride, especially as the first for a Gujarati film. More importantly, the film’s resonance with viewers underscores the need for dialogues around empowerment and resilience. This production challenged us to construct a complete village setting in a barren area, including traditional homes and a community square – an entire setup that remains visible on digital maps to this day.”
Shraddha Dangar, portraying the lead role, voiced her enthusiasm about the film’s streaming release. “The experience of ‘Hellaro’ has been transformative, not just as an actress but on a personal level as well. Performing the Garba in Kutch’s severe conditions was challenging, yet the reception from viewers worldwide made every hardship worth it,” Dangar explained. “Since the film’s release, I’ve been propelled by countless empowering stories. Playing Manjhri ignited a newfound strength in me, inspiring me to advocate for change and share the compelling tales of women’s courage.”
As “Hellaro” prepares to extend its reach to ShemarooMe’s audience, it invites viewers into its vibrant spectacle of resistance and liberation. The movie underscores the power of cultural expressions like Garba as not just a dance form but as a vehicle for women’s journey from subjugation to freedom.
This landmark film continues to inspire and spark important conversations regarding gender roles and societal expectations. As it becomes accessible to an even broader audience, “Hellaro” stands as a beacon of change, illustrating the profound impact of cinema on social issues. Watch the remarkable story unfold on ShemarooMe this Navratri, celebrating the spirit and resilience of women reclaiming their destinies.