Haseena is a classy production by Girish Kasaravalli, a director of international repute. Based on a story by Kannada writer Bhanu Mustaq, the film harps on the trauma of a Muslim woman deserted by her husband. Apart from bagging the National Award for its leading actress Tara, the film has won two awards in the categories of Best Film under Family Welfare and Costume Designing.
Haseena's trump cards happen to be its strong emotional content and fast narrative, traits sure to keep the audience glued on to the screen throughout. Kasarvalli has shot the film in the periphery of Mangalore and Madikeri towns and has been able to evoke the right atmosphere for the narrative.
Haseena's plight is accentuated by the fact that she has three daughters, one of them being visually impaired. While she struggles to make both ends meet, her indifferent husband offers no help. As she comes to know of her husband's intention to get married again, she complains to the local masjid.
Meanwhile, a doctor who treats Haseena's visually impaired daughter sings a note of hope that her daughter can regain sight if operated upon. Haseena sets out to mobilise funds and tries her best to get her husband back. She knows she will be tortured by him but she seems resolute for a combat. Unfortunately, however, she is rebutted by the masjid mutavalli and turns into a pawn in the masjid politics.
Kasaravalli strikes a chord with the audience through his tragic portrayal of Haseena. He is backed well by a competent crew with Ramachandra doing wonders with camera. A good background score by Thomas Issac sets the right tone for the songless film.
Tara puts in a wonderful performance and proves why she is considered one of the best performers in the country. Chandrahas Ullal, who had done small roles in a few art films, dishes out a potent performance as Haseena's husband. Stage names Purushoththam and RNagesh lend credence to their respective roles and so do Ruthu and Chitra Shenoy.
Haseena is a great film and worth a watch even for people who like to hog hardcore commercial films. Wish the film had won the National Award for Best Film.
