Was Shekhar Rai From Parineeta Really A Desirable Man For Lalita Or Just A Male Chauvinist?

Vidya Balan and Saif Ali Khan starrer 2005 musical romantic drama, Parineeta, remained one of the most cherished classics of Hindi Cinema. Set against the backdrop of Calcutta in 1962, the film is an adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's 1914 Bengali novel of the same name. The movie explored the emotional complexities and social hierarchies between the two childhood friends, Lalita and Shekhar Rai, whose friendship blossomed into love. Years back, when the film was released, the audience wanted to see the two end up together. Every obstacle in their bond seemed unfair at that time. But years later, through modern understanding and emotional intelligence, it seemed like the main obstacle in the film was Shekhar himself. Wondering how?

A Modern-Day Analysis Of Parineeta

The movie portrayed the intense emotional bond between Lalita and Shekhar. From relying on small things like what Shekhar would wear to his wait for her to come from the office, so that they can practice music. They were emotionally dependent on each other. When seen through a modern-day lens, Shekhar’s behaviour actually raised several red flag traits. How? For example, even after realising his affection for Lalita, Shekhar allowed his arrogant father’s fear and followed his actions, going so far as to consider marriage with Gayatri Tantiya. His lack of trust in Lalita became more annoying when Lalita actually befriended Girish Sharma. Instead of seeking clarity, Shekhar always chose to be suspicious and jealous.

Shekhar not only doubted but yelled at her with false perception, inherited from his arrogant father, Navinchandra Rai. He believed what his father told him about Lalita and Girish without giving a second thought to it. Isn’t it obvious that if someone is in love, he/she should confront their partners first, before jumping into assumptions and sticking to it? Well! That’s where the male chauvinism actually lies, which Bollywood films and old novels have glorified for years, showcasing it as a man’s love. But is it really love?

Also read: Was Radhe Mohan From Tere Naam Really A True Lover Or Just A Red Flag That Audience Hyped?

The Contrast Characteristic Between Girish Sharma And Shekhar Rai

Like a true gentleman, Girish was a calm and sensible person in contrast to Shekhar. He was a respectful, patient and very emotionally mature man. Unlike Shekhar, he always tried to understand others’ feelings without imposing his own thoughts.