
Malda Aam
Malda Aam is a poignant tale of two women, Tamannah and Rajni, who seemingly unexpectedly cross paths after nearly a decade apart. Their reunion is marked by a palpable tension, as the once close friends navigate the awkwardness of their long absence from each other's lives. As they exchange hesitant smiles and small talk, the film takes the audience back in time to trace the origins of their relationship. The flashbacks reveal their college days, where Tamannah, drawn by an inexplicable curiosity, seeks out Rajni, a quiet and solitary figure. Rajni also acts as a caregiver tot an older woman in exchange for a monthly income. She struggles with a deep sese of loss after the demise of the old woman. Unable to go back home during summer break, her patience rips and despite her initial resistance, Tamannaha's warmth and persistence gradually draw her in, and they form a bond that feels deeper than mere friendship. They share a connection that defies easy categorization. Central to their relationship is the Malda Aam, a sweet and flavorful mango that becomes a symbol of their bond.
′Malda Aam′ is a reflective exploration of friendship, love, and the delicate balance between what was, what is, and what might have been.
I. Friendship, Solidarity and the Middle: The flashback of the film is set in the 2010s where Rajni and Tamannah meet. Both reflect a deep sense of polarity in the ways of being, while one is reserved, the other is perpetually spirited. One hides, the other chases and in these moments of seeking and finding they are able to reveal themselves to each other and form a bond.
II. Caregiving: Rajni acts as a caregiver to an old woman who lives alone with her son. She juggles between college and making a living. She takes care of the woman, ′Dadi′(Hindi for grandmother) with utmost tenderness and affection, often bringing her flowers and tucking it behind her ear.
III. Yearning for home: The mango signifies a desire for home, and the inability of going home due to circumstantial reasons adds to the angst. For Rajni, college summer breaks meant home and mangoes from the neighbor's garden. A year away from home, long months of anticipation leaves her hurt and Tamanna comes to symbolize what we often refer to as, ′a home away from home′.
Ronjini Chakraborty
(Tamannah)
Chitrangada Satarupa
(Rajni)
Utkarsh Masand - Cinematographer
Kalesh Lakshmanan - Sound Recordist
Deepak Mishra - Creative Producer
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