Biopics are not new in Indian cinema, but rarely do they manage to touch the soul the way Sant Tukaram does. Directed by Aditya Om, this period drama dives deep into the life and spiritual journey of one of Maharashtra’s most revered saints — Sant Tukaram Maharaj. With a powerful ensemble led by Subodh Bhave and Sanjay Mishra, the film not only explores the man behind the saint but also mirrors the social challenges of that era. Let’s break it down.
Sant Tukaram Story
The film opens with the story of Vishambhar, an ancestor of Sant Tukaram, who has a dream leading him to an idol of Lord Vithoba in his garden — a divine start to a story steeped in devotion. Born in a family of moneylenders, Tukaram’s early life is filled with contradictions — material responsibilities on one hand and his community’s marginalized status on the other. This duality shapes young Tukaram’s mindset as he witnesses societal discrimination and vows to fight it.
Tukaram’s personal life is marred by tragedy — the loss of his parents, first wife, and son to famine and disease pushes him deeper into spirituality. His second wife, Avali, is practical and strong-headed, often disapproving of his detachment from worldly life. Despite resistance from society and the priestly class, especially a Brahmin named Mambaji, Tukaram’s spiritual connection with Lord Vithoba grows stronger.
Guided by divine visitations and inner voices, he begins composing abhangs (devotional poems) in the local dialect, making religion accessible to the masses. His growing popularity and inclusive teachings angered orthodox Brahmins, leading to an attempt to ban his writings. But miracles follow him — his abhangs thrown into the river return unharmed, converting even his harshest critics into believers. Eventually, even Chhatrapati Shivaji seeks his blessings. The film ends on a mystical note, as Sant Tukaram disappears during a storm, believed to have been taken by Lord Vishnu himself.
Sant Tukaram Review
Director Aditya Om deserves full credit for taking up a story of such spiritual and cultural depth. The narrative is rooted, well-paced, and emotionally evocative. The film never rushes through moments of pain, realization, or divine intervention — instead, it lets them breathe. The visuals are earthy and authentic, perfectly capturing the rustic landscapes and spiritual aura of the era.
The screenplay does full justice to the philosophical and emotional layers of Tukaram’s life. Dialogues feel organic and reflective, while the music and background score complement the devotional vibe without overwhelming the narrative. The abhangs are beautifully integrated and bring soul to the story.
Sant Tukaram Performances
Subodh Bhave is simply outstanding as Sant Tukaram. He brings an effortless grace and intensity to the role — whether it’s a moment of grief, a spark of rebellion, or a silent conversation with Lord Vithoba. Sanjay Mishra adds depth to the proceedings with his seasoned presence.
Twinkle Kapoor, Sheena Chohan, and Arun Govil deliver notable performances. Shiva Suryavanshi, Hemant Pandey, Lalit Tiwari, Mukesh Bhatt, Rupali Jadhav, Gauri Shankar, and Shishir Sharma all leave a solid impact in their supporting roles. Every actor seems fully immersed in the period and the spiritual depth of their characters.
Final Verdict
Sant Tukaram is not your typical mythological or devotional film. It’s a spiritually enriching and socially relevant tale told with sensitivity and visual finesse. It talks about equality, resilience, and the unwavering power of devotion — all wrapped in a cinematic tribute to one of India’s greatest saints.
Despite some minor pacing issues, this one deserves to be seen on the big screen, not just for its storytelling, but for its soul.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
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