Paradha

Story: Set in Padathi Village, the film revolves around a superstition that women must wear a veil—or face sacrifice in the village well. Subbu, who faithfully follows this tradition and loves Rajesh (Rag Mayur), loses her veil one day and is photographed by a mysterious photographer. When her uncovered face appears on the cover of a famous magazine, her engagement is called off, and villagers demand her sacrifice for breaking tradition. Rajesh discovers that the photographer lives in Dharamshala, prompting Subbu to embark on a journey there with her aunt Rathna (Sangitha). What begins as a quest turns into a journey of self-discovery and healing, with Subbu finding strength in fellow women Amishta (Darshana Rajendhran) and Rathna.

Review: Paradha is a moving exploration of the lives and emotions of three women from diverse backgrounds who embark on a transformative journey to Dharamshala. At the heart of the film is Anupama Parameshwaran’s compelling portrayal of Subbu, a woman caught between tradition and change. Alongside her, Darshana Rajendhran makes a remarkable Telugu debut as Amishta, a driven and overachieving working woman who skilfully navigates the complexities of female friendships while challenging patriarchal norms. Sangitha delivers a nuanced performance as Rathna, a housewife seeking to reclaim her identity and independence by stepping away from her overdependent family.

Director Praveen Kandregula weaves a powerful social drama centred on women’s empowerment and the struggle against oppressive customs. The narrative is beautifully elevated by Gopi Sundar’s mellifluous music, which lends emotional depth and resonance to the story. Complementing the film’s thematic richness is Mridul Zarna Sen’s cinematography, which captures the breathtaking, serene landscapes of Dharamshala, adding a visual poetry that enhances the viewing experience.

Paradha stands out not only for its engaging storytelling and impactful dialogues but also for its inspiring message of transformation. If you enjoy films centred on travel, strong social messages, and women-led stories, this is a must-watch.

– Divya Shree