Oodh: A nostalgic ode to the past

Directed by Nimish Poyrekar, Oodh is a Marathi short film that revolves around Swara and her family, who move out of their ancestral home. The little moments throughout the film take the family back to the good old days and help them recall moments they spent in their old house.

When Anagha, Swara’s mother, witnesses her painting in their new house, she recalls how their old home had walls full of her drawings and it brings a smile to her face. The film also has a scene in the kitchen, where Anagha’s mother-in-law saves some raw mango from the pickle she is making for Anagha. This incident reminds them of Anagha’s father-in-law, who is no more, and how she would secretly hand him raw mango without the family’s knowledge, as it was his favourite.

It is refreshing to witness how the family speaks of the departed. Although it is evident that they miss and love him, they speak of him with joy and celebrate the life he lived. The film also portrays the fights the couple had regarding what to watch on the television. It is more cheerful banter than a fight and the flashback scene helps the audience understand the couple’s dynamics. Although the audience only sees the father-in-law in flashbacks, they manage to relate to him and end up sharing in the family’s grief as they miss him.

There is also a scene where the family shares a meal together. It is touching to watch this, as in today’s generation, it is rare to witness the same. If one looks closely, a picture of the father-in-law is placed so that it seems like he is present at the dinner table. This represents how although he has completed his earthly journey, he will always be part of the family.

The last scene when the family leaves their ancestral home is truly heart-breaking, as we witness the mother-in-law reminiscing about her late husband as she leaves the house. However, it also teaches us that moving forward, although difficult, is indeed possible when your loved ones are right by your side.