Movie Review: Shakuntala Devi

An outstanding biographical comedy-drama film.

Perfect weekend watch!

The extraordinary story of Shakuntala Devi, the world-renowned mathematician who lived her life on her own terms. While the film pays tribute to her genius as a mathematician, it also humanizes her as a woman and mother, in trying to capture her indomitable spirit. Told through the lens of her relationship with her daughter Anupama Banerji, the film highlights their very different struggles and aspirations.

The magic behind her talent makes us believe we can cross oceans for our dreams if we want to. 

Shakuntala Devi proves the adage ‘There is no great genius without a mixture of madness’.

Dynamic script and brilliant direction stands out. Director Anu Menon balances the rough and smooth incidents in Shakuntala Devi and her daughter’s lives beautifully.

Shakuntala Devi is unimaginable without a powerful performance by Vidya Balan who handles the comic sequences with as much flourish as the emotional ones. All the supporting characters in the film are exemplary.

On the whole, Shakuntala Devi is a must-watch for every parent, every child.

A remarkable film with an overwhelming message that stays in your heart, remains etched in your memory. ‘Vidya Kasam’.