Wednesday, March 12, 2025
No menu items!
Google search engine
HomeBlogCelebrating Imtiaz Ali's 'Jab We Met': A Special Tribute to a Timeless...

Celebrating Imtiaz Ali’s ‘Jab We Met’: A Special Tribute to a Timeless Cinematic Gem

Today is the birthday of Imtiaz Ali, an Indian film director. Movie lovers know him for his many iconic movies like ‘Rockstar’, ‘Tamasha’, ‘Highway’, ‘Cocktail’ etc. However, his second movie ‘Jab We Met’ holds a special place in my heart. I want to show respect by discussing the movie and explaining why it is so different and special.

Geet: A Symbol of Self-Preservation and Empowerment of Women

Geet

Many argue that ‘Jab We Met’ may not possess the same level of complexity as some of Imtiaz Ali’s other films. It’s undeniable that the movie resonates more deeply with women than with men. The central character, Geet, embodies a spirit that speaks directly to the hearts of women. Throughout the entire movie, Geet stands out as the epitome of self-love, but not in a selfish way though. She is not defined by her relationships as a daughter, sister, wife, or mother. Geet boldly declares, “main apni favourite hu” (I am my favourite). This assertion is a powerful statement of self-affirmation and self-worth. How many women in India can confidently make such a declaration? In a society where many women often prioritize pleasing others and seek external validation, Geet’s character serves as a beacon of empowerment for those who dare to embrace their true selves unapologetically.

Embracing Roots and Identity: A Personal Reflection on Geet

 

Geet

Geet, a character from ‘Jab We Met,’ may have studied in Mumbai and spent a considerable amount of time in a hostel there, but her true essence remains deeply rooted in her hometown. She proclaims herself to be a “Bhatinda ki Shikhni.” A Sikh-Woman from Bhatinda.

When I first watched ‘Jab We Met,’ I just passed my 10th-grade exams, unsure about my future. Over the years, I ventured to college life, lived in hostels, moved to different towns, and now I find myself in Delhi. Yet, like Geet, I find solace in introducing myself as a girl from my hometown, a nondescript place called Baligori from the Hooghly district of West Bengal.

As time passes, I resonate more with the sentiments that Geet expressed in the movie. Her words hold a profound meaning that grows more personal with time. Just as Geet embraced her roots and held onto her identity despite her diverse experiences, I, too, find comfort in acknowledging my origins and cherishing the essence of where I come from. ‘Jab We Met’ has transformed from a movie into a personal journey of understanding and appreciating the significance of one’s roots and identity in the midst of life’s ever-changing landscapes.

Navigating Self-Preservation and Empowerment: Lessons from Geet

Geet

As a teenager, even before watching the movie ‘Jab We Met,’ I came to realize the challenges that lay ahead for a suburban girl like me. I understood that the journey would not be easy, and the first step in this path was to prioritize self-care with a mindset of indifference or a “don’t care” attitude. Geet’s words resonated with me and provided me with a deeper understanding of what I needed to do. She famously said, “main apni dil ki sunti hu” (I only listen to what my heart says), emphasizing the importance of trusting one’s instincts and desires.

While it is crucial to maintain a sense of self-assurance and independence, it is also essential to acknowledge that we cannot completely disregard the dangers that may lurk around us. Society often views independent women as easy targets for exploitation, as exemplified by the station master’s words to Geet in the movie: “Akeli ladki khuli hui tijori ki tarah hoti hai” (A lonely girl is like an open treasury).

Through Geet’s character and her experiences, ‘Jab We Met’ not only imparts valuable lessons on self-preservation and empowerment but also sheds light on the importance of navigating the complexities of societal expectations while staying true to oneself. Geet’s unwavering spirit serves as a guiding light for young women, encouraging them to listen to their hearts, prioritize self-care, and navigate the world with resilience and strength.

Redefining Gender Dynamics: The Empowering Partnership of Aditya and Geet

Geet and Aditya

In Indian cinema, female characters have often been portrayed as complements to their male counterparts, existing to fulfil the hero’s dreams and goals. This narrative extends beyond the big screen and reflects societal norms where women are expected to play a supporting role. However, ‘Jab We Met’ stands out as an exceptional movie in this regard.

Imtiaz Ali broke new ground by recognizing that women are capable of dreaming and setting their own goals. In the movie, Aditya’s character stands beside Geet, not to dominate or control her, but to support and complete her. This refreshing concept challenged traditional gender roles prevalent in Indian cinema and society.

At the time of creating ‘Jab We Met,’ Imtiaz Ali may not have realized the profound impact the movie would have, serving as a mirror to the minds of countless women seeking a partner like Aditya – someone who loves, cares, guides, but does not seek to confine or protect at the cost of freedom. In India, there exists a prevalent notion that men must shield and confine women to safeguard them from society. However, Aditya’s character in the movie exemplifies a different approach. He empowers Geet to confront societal norms, providing her with the strength and support needed to overcome challenges and emerge victorious.

Through the partnership of Aditya and Geet, ‘Jab We Met’ not only challenges traditional gender dynamics but also celebrates a relationship based on mutual respect, support, and empowerment. The film serves as a powerful reminder that true companionship is built on equality, understanding, and the shared pursuit of individual aspirations and growth.

Geet: A Beacon of Self-Responsibility

Geet

Geet, a beloved character from ‘Jab We Met,’ resonates with individuals who refuse to conform to a life of domestication and instead choose to embrace the unpredictability of life. With her iconic declaration, “Zindagi (life) is my favourite game,” Geet embodies a spirit of adventure and autonomy.

In this game of life, she takes full ownership of her decisions, whether they lead to victory or defeat. Geet refuses to live in a state of indebtedness or assign blame to others; she stands firm in the belief that she alone is responsible for the choices that shape her life.

Geet’s unwavering determination to navigate life on her own terms serves as a powerful inspiration to those who seek to assert control over their destinies. Her character exemplifies the essence of self-responsibility and empowerment, illustrating that true fulfilment comes from embracing one’s agency and making choices that align with one’s values and aspirations.

Geet’s journey in ‘Jab We Met’ serves as a poignant reminder that each individual has the power to craft one’s own narrative, steering one’s life’s course with courage, resilience, and unwavering self-belief.

 

 A Birthday Wish for Imtiaz Ali: May Every Geet Find Her Aditya

Geet and Aditya

On the occasion of Imtiaz Ali’s birthday, let us extend one heartfelt wish: May every Geet be blessed with an Aditya in her life. An Aditya who acknowledges without hesitation that he owes his life’s turnaround to Geet. May every Geet find that special Aditya who embodies a love so pure and selfless that it illuminates the true essence of love itself.

In the intricate tapestry of life, may each Geet be graced with an Aditya who stands as a pillar of strength and support, a beacon of unwavering devotion and understanding. Let this union between Geet and Aditya serve as a testament to the transformative power of love, illuminating the path to mutual respect, compassion, and companionship.

Imtiaz Ali’s cinematic masterpiece ‘Jab We Met’ transcends the boundaries of storytelling to offer a profound message of love, resilience, and self-discovery. On this special day, let us echo the sentiment that every Geet deserves an Aditya, a partner who cherishes her essence, uplifts her spirit, and helps her unravel the true meaning of love in all its beauty and complexity.

May the universe conspire to unite every Geet with her Aditya, creating a symphony of love that echoes through eternity, inspiring others to embrace the purest form of affection and connection. Imtiaz Ali, may your vision continue to touch newer hearts and souls, weaving tales of love and redemption that resonate with audiences far and wide.

Author

Dr. Rituparna Koley
Dr. Rituparna Koley
MA, Ph.D. in Bengali Language and Literature.
RELATED ARTICLES

3 COMMENTS

  1. Your writing on Imtiaz Ali and his directorial brilliance, particularly in “Jab We Met,” was exceptionally well-crafted. Your insights into how the movie resonates with you added a personal touch that truly enhanced the narrative. Your ability to connect Ali’s work with your own experiences showcases your talent as a writer. Well done!

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisment -
Google search engine

Most Popular

Recent Comments

রামকৃষ্ণ বড়াল on The Goddess of Knowledge Across Civilizations: A Timeless Legacy