Hrishikesh Mukherjee's best films

While Jaya Bhaduri’s character in Guddi seemed enchantingly close-to-life, Abhimaan still sparks debate -- does it mirror the status of her relationship with Amitabh Bachchan in the early years of their marriage?

In Abhimaan, Hrishida makes an astute observation of the ego problems which rise when a married couple is in the same profession... especially when the wife becomes more successful than the husband. Hrishida delves into the workings of the fragile male ego. Aided by Amitabh’s smoulderingly intense performance, he reveals how it can shatter even the man’s most loving relationship.

Hrishida does not adhere to any strict 'isms' in Abhimaan; but follows a humanistic view of a troubled marriage. The wife is willing to make umpteen sacrifices for her marriage. But when she loses her baby and subsequently her interest in life and music, the husband does come to terms with his pettiness and, in a heart-wrenching climactic song, exhorts her to sing in public.

Embellishing his film with a great score by S D Burman, Abhimaan suggests Mukherji's belief in the primacy of relationships over all else.

Also Read: The haunting notes of Abhimaan

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