TOSKA: A Soul-Stirring Odyssey of Resilience, Love, and Cultural Harmony
TOSKA follows a lower-class family from Gujarat as they move to Maharashtra in search of a better life. With little to their name, they carry their belongings on a bicycle, determined to find a peaceful corner in the city.
The head of the family, Mahesh, a loving father and puppeteer, hopes to earn a stable income through his art. His wife, Deena, supports him by taking on odd jobs while leaving behind everything she knew. Together with their daughter, Mini, they embark on a new chapter in an unfamiliar city.
Transitions like these are common, but have you ever considered the sacrifices and adjustments made to start over? In the pursuit of material stability, we sometimes overlook the quality of life.
TOSKA, written and directed by Neeraj Bhatt, takes us through the journey of Mahesh (Pratik Rathod), Deena (Jhanavi Chauhan), and Mini (Pragya Thummar) as they face the challenges of adapting to their new home. The film explores themes of cultural adaptation, language barriers, and the struggles of a lower-class family, evoking deep empathy from the audience.
Mahesh and Mini, both skilled puppeteers, try to make a living through their art, while Deena takes on various jobs to contribute. Despite her efforts to connect with the local women, Deena struggles with loneliness, isolation, and homesickness. Her emotional breakdown during the Ganesh Puja celebrations deeply resonates with viewers.
However, it’s during this celebration that Deena finds a glimmer of hope and belonging. Immersed in the rhythms and traditions of the Garba dance, she begins to embrace her new life and culture. This marks a turning point as Deena forges a new identity, adapting to her surroundings with newfound purpose.
The unbreakable bond between Mahesh and Mini serves as a beacon of hope throughout the film. Their dedication to each other, combined with the transformative power of love and creativity, propels them forward even in the darkest moments.
The soundtrack, with its haunting folk melodies, complements the emotional journey, evoking Deena's longing and nostalgia while adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
TOSKA is a powerful exploration of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of family. It reminds us of the strength of the human spirit and the support we find in our loved ones. Change is inevitable, and with this mindset, the family enters their new city with high hopes and dreams for a better life.
Humans have an innate need to belong. This universal struggle to fit into new environments is beautifully captured in this short 15-minute film. Migration is common, and everyone’s struggle is unique. But in the end, it’s our need to belong that drives us to adapt and embrace change.Written by SALONI GUPTA
