Astitva (2000)

You really cannot praise Tabu enough for this performance. Even though the story and dialogues have certain glitches, this movie is a must-watch not just for the topic it touches upon (women's sexuality) but also just to see what a queen Tabu is. The scene where she has to tell her husband about her pregnancy, and the last iconic monologue are 2 of the most impactful scenes from that decade, and you cannot convince me otherwise. 

My favourite part about the ending sequence is that no man utters a single word once Tabu says her piece. They all fall silent, as they should, and that's the message everyone should take home once they finish this movie- men should not interrupt while women are talking, men should learn to listen, and of course, men should not stop women once it's clear that they have made up their minds. That's it, that's the only #feminism we need from men. As a start, I mean. There's so much more we need to do, and it's a shame we haven't really had another movie like Astitva in the 20 years since it released.

In conclusion, despite its preachy tone, Astitva remains as relevant as ever, thanks to Tabu's acting skills that just do not age. And let's face it, this country is moving so slowly in terms of progress that I have a bad feeling that it will remain relevant even 40 years after its release. And I'll still be marvelling at how good Tabu is, so thank goodness for that (yes I cannot get over how talented and amazing this woman is, and what about it?).