User reviews

After the death of his elder brother, Amit finds out that his late brother's fiancée, Shobha, is pregnant. Taking pity on the devastated young woman, he decides to marry her, leaving behind the love of his life, Chandni. Chandni later marries a famous doctor. An accident during which Shobha loses her child and is taken care of by Chandni's husband, causes Amit and Chandni to meet again. There begins a new extramarital relationship between the two, through which the story deepens and grows.

This is Silsila, Yash Chopra's take on relationships and adultery in a modern 80s India. A romantic drama, it is quiet, serious and focused, and is shot beautifully like every other movie made by Chopra. What I particularly appreciated about this film was the matter-of-factness with which it was made and executed. There was not any overdone melodrama, no unnecessary subplots, and the writing did not go overboard. The story is simple to follow, the script and the characters are very well written, and the film is generally subtly made.

Chopra's portrayal of relationships is very well done. The dialogues are excellent. At times some proceedings were difficult to relate to or identify with, but who knows, maybe one should really be in a particular situation to understand its meaning and its effect on people at times of pressure. This is the reason I believed the story. Leaving the seriousness aside, as a film, Silsila is simply entertaining. It flows well, it is interesting, and is aided by several melodious and memorable songs composed by Shiv-Hari.

Rumour had it that Silsila was based on the true triangular story of Amitabh-Jaya-Rekha. Jaya Bhaduri is Bachchan's real-life wife and Rekha was rumoured to have been involved with him back then in an extramarital affair. This adds to the film's authenticity, but more than anything, the acting is natural to make it work the way it did. Bachchan is as great as always. Jaya Bhaduri is brilliant as his intelligent, sensible and smart wife Shobha, and displays her character's fear, strength and determination with great depth and conviction and as naturally as ever. Rekha gets less scope, yet she is wonderful in her restrained portrayal of Chandni. She is extremely beautiful and acts with grace.

Silsila has some other limited appearances by Shashi Kapoor and Sanjeev Kumar, the former being fine and the latter being exceptional. The main complaint with the film was its ending, but I quite liked it. The viewers must have been torn between two probable versions. The reason behind Amit's decision was a bit unjustifiable, but anyway, this is one of the better and more interesting works of Yash Chopra. It is well written, directed and acted. I recommend.

People call Lamhe Yash Chopra's biggest risk but in my opinion Silsila was his biggest risk. That is because with Silsila he tried to make us feel sorry for adulterers Amitabh and Rekha. He succeeds in achieving that, we as the audience are made to feel that they are not bad people and it is more of a case of unfortunate circumstances. That is one problem I had with KANK, they way it was written I failed to garner any sympathy for Shah Rukh and Rani and that is a major flaw.Amitabh and Rekha are lovers but Amitabh marries his deceased brother's wife who is carrying his child leaving lover Rekha heartbroken. They actually try to forget about each other but fate has other plans for them and they are soon reunited.

The music, as per usual in a Yash Chopra production is exceptional and perhaps the music he has had in any of his movies. My favourites are either Dekha ek khwab or the holi classic Rang Barse. Speaking of Rang Barse I love the acting of Sanjeev Kumar and Jaya Bachan in that song. When the song starts they are happy with Amitabh's and Rekha dancing together but towards the end they start to get insecure, such great acting. Now onto the acting, Amitabh,Jaya Bachan,Rekha and even Sanjeev Kumar were all exceptional.

When released it flopped but made its money back through reruns. Apparently people were unhappy about the fact that after Amitabh spends all the movie thinking about Rekha when they do run away together he ends up going back to his wife. That in my opinion was Yash Chopra's only fault and yet I still enjoy throughly despite the ending. After this movie was released rumours started to circulate that Amitbah and Rekha did have an affair during the filming of Silsila. I can't say whether it's true or not, its just some interesting trivia. In my opinion Silsila is the best Bollywood movie based on adultery and is miles better than Karan Johar's KANK.

Silsila is based on the true story of Amitabh, Jaya, and Rekha. As with many great movies that don't follow the typical Bollywood format this was a big flop when it was released, and yet there is no one today who hasn't seen it. Like most Yash Chopra films this one looks great and so are the songs, especially the first two: "sar se sareke" and "ladki hai yaa sholaa" (I probably didn't spell that right). Unlike most of Amitabh's films this is more of an ensemble piece and the whole cast delivers. Amitabh gives a powerhouse performance as the poet whose life is suddenly shattered and he's forced to give up his happiness for Jaya. Jaya is also perfect and matches him all the way. Sanjeev Kumar steals every scene he's in especially the one at the airport with Rekha and the one when he's talking to Jaya at the hospital. Rekha is good although her performance is the weakest of the four. Shashi Kapoor does what he can in his small role. The subject matter was handled nicely by the writers (they never get too preachy) and there are many scenes, especially the ones between Amit and Jaya, and Rekha and Jaya where you wonder how that scene took place in real life. They also succeed with making you sympathize with all 4 individuals - (that might be why they were all willing to make the movie). I give this movie a 9 out of 10. The only thing that stops me from giving it a 10 is the ending. We aren't given a reason as to why Amitabh makes the decision that he makes. Also the big revelation from Jaya at the end of the movie doesn't really make sense. Apart from that the movie is flawless and a must see.

For a number of reasons this films stands out among the myriad mass produced Hindi films which the industry turns out. This isn't your average Hindi film for the very simple reason that it deals with a controversial theme - an extra-marital relationship. The script, barring a few flaws, is exceptionally good. The same can be said of the acting. Amitabh is simply brilliant. You cannot see any other actor taking his place. In the beginning of the film he plays the clown. The transformation of his persona in the face of getting married to a woman he does not love, is something only an actor of Amitabh's calibre could have pulled off. His role is central to the film, and it is quite exceptionally played. Then he is once again at his clowning best when he sings Rang Barse in his own voice.

I would have given this film 10 out of 10, if it were not for the ending. You get the impression that the film makers were in a hurry to end the film.

Look, having poetry in your dialogues is actually cool but only when it is done at crucial moments. If your ENTIRE film is people talking in poetry and metaphors, nobody is going to be able to relate, also it gets damn annoying and also it is difficult to understand what the character wants to say for the plot.

The 'love' in the movie is so superficial. Amitabh and Rekha barely talk to each other. They meet at a mutual friend's wedding and he starts creepily dancing next to her. Next thing we know he stalks her to get her address and starts sending flowers and cassettes with love messages. And what whatever reason, she is digging all this. And then we get montages after montages of them walking and singing in parks and we are supposed to believe that they are in love.

The characters are flat and we know barely anything about them. Amitabh- Is a writer? Screenwriter? I have no idea. He feels obligated to help others by risking his life (who knows why) and he is a creep who stalks Rekha before and after marriage.

Shashi Kapoor- a squadron leader in the airforce. An irresponsible person - he drinks and drives, got his girlfriend pregnant before marriage, takes a bath with his brother (?) Jaya - does nothing for a living. Depends on men to support her. Is selfish in her love for Amitabh who she wants to stay with despite him being in love with someone else. Emotionally manipulates him in the end to come back to her because she's carrying his baby and no one would support her.

Rekha - just there to be Amitabh's lust.

What was the moral of the story? I think Yash Chopra wanted to show how societal norms make people unhappy but in the end Amitabh does end up following societal norms and going back to his wife instead of lover and for some reason looks happy. Maybe the moral was that love and marriage are two different things? Even if you are in love with someone else, you are duty bound to your spouse and yu should be happy about it??

I've been dreaming of watching Silsila since 1981 and recently it has come true. I read an annotation in CineBlitz and Yash Chopra's interview in one of the Russian newspapers and thus expected to see something outstanding. Unfortunately I was disappointed at the plot. Shobha turned out to be a 100% selfish person. Amit was striving for his happiness and love but did not have enough strength and courage to win. Chandni was tearing apart yet she made her choice however Amit betrayed her again... Yash Chopra challenged moral principles speaking about adultery but even here those principles (or maybe stereotypes??) were not broken. How happy Amit and Chandni were when dancing at the festival! Do they not deserve to be together? I think they do. And remember the last words of Amit that he has burned his love and that Shobha is his wife and he is her husband. Looks like there is no parallel between love and marriage. And that is sad. However I got a pleasure from watching the movie. Nice actors and tears-provoking acting but not good to watch second time due to the above said.

I always wanted to watch this movie as i am a huge fan on Amit ji and Rekha ji. Finally watched the movie and here is what I felt.

Amazing movie, great dialogs and amazing poetry, every actor is fantastic. Hate for the character of 'SHOBHA from bottom of my heart!!!

The ENDING makes no sense in present time but yah respect for the boldness of director and writer for creating such an unique story back then.

Honestly I don't like the ending. Its so sad to see such stories where at the end social stereotypes win over human emotions and feelings..

I hate Shobha!!!!!!! She truly is the problem.

This movie was billed as a true story when it came out. Even though it is still a masala Bollywood movie, it has some striking resemblences to the life story of the leading ladies and the hero, Amitabh Bachan. In real life Amitabh had an affair with Rekha while married to Jaya Bhaduri. The movie version follows the same script, except adds many secondary characters, such as Sanjeev Kumar as Rekha's husband. Jaya Bhaduri gives a passable performance, while rekha and Amitabh both overact. There are a lot of unnecessary fantasy sequences shot in the Tulip farms in Holland which have no relevance to the rest of the movie. Camera work leaves a lot to be desired. In spite of all this, this movie remains interesting because it dared to treat the theme of extramarital romance when such topics were taboo in Bollywood.

"Silsila" is a Bollywood film directed by Yash Chopra and released in 1981. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Jaya Bachchan, and Rekha in lead roles, the movie explores themes of love, relationships, and societal expectations.

"Silsila" revolves around the complex love triangle between Amit (Amitabh Bachchan), his wife Shobha (Jaya Bachchan), and his former lover Chandni (Rekha). The story unfolds as Amit and Chandni meet again after a long separation and find their feelings for each other rekindling. However, they are bound by their commitments to their respective spouses, leading to a tumultuous emotional journey as they struggle with their desires and societal norms.

One of the most notable aspects of "Silsila" is its stellar cast. Amitabh Bachchan delivers a remarkable performance as a man torn between his loyalty to his wife and his passionate love for another woman. Jaya Bachchan brings depth and vulnerability to her portrayal of Shobha, showcasing the pain and turmoil she experiences as she tries to hold her crumbling marriage together. Rekha, on the other hand, shines as Chandni, depicting a strong-willed and independent woman who is unable to let go of her love for Amit.

The film is known for its soulful and melodious soundtrack composed by Shiv-Hari, with lyrics penned by Javed Akhtar. Songs like "Yeh Kahaan Aa Gaye Hum," "Dekha Ek Khwaab," and "Rang Barse" have become iconic and continue to be popular even today.

Yash Chopra's direction in "Silsila" is noteworthy, as he skillfully handles the delicate subject matter and captures the emotional nuances of the characters. The film's cinematography and picturesque locations add to its visual appeal.

However, "Silsila" received mixed reactions upon its release, as it delved into a controversial topic that was rumored to mirror the real-life love triangle between Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, and Rekha. The film's unconventional ending also divided audiences, with some appreciating its boldness, while others found it unsatisfying.

Overall, "Silsila" is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and societal expectations. It stands as a significant contribution to Indian cinema, showcasing the talents of its stellar cast and the directorial finesse of Yash Chopra. If you enjoy romantic dramas with emotional depth and captivating performances, "Silsila" is definitely worth a watch.

Silsila is a sensitively-made & family-oriented film based on a bold theme of extra-marital relationship - but with twists and surprises (which I've no interest in revealing)!

Even though it did not do well at the Box-office in 1981 we must thank Yash Chopra for a thoughtfully presented film on a sensitive matter. He is a master in making visually-appealing romantic films with lovely locations like the colourful, awe-inspiring Tulip garden in Netherlands for the song Dekha Ek Khwab. Wow! How can we forget that?

We must also thank the Music Directors, Hariprasad Chaurasia and Shivkumar Sharma, & Lyricts, Javed Akhtar, Rajendra Krishnan & Harivansh Rai Bachchan for such soulful, memorable music and songs - which still gives goosebumps while listening. And how can we forget Raang Barsae - the Holi anthem so popular all over Bharat!

NOTE: There was a special appearance by the Music Directors for a few seconds, in an Airport Terminal, nearly 21 minutes into the film. They were in the background talking to each other wearing their traditional dress with Amit ji and Jaya ji in the foreground. Wonder how many have noticed that. I must say I've very, very sharp Eyes since I've not seen their photos anywhere for years! LOL!

But I've a few complaints:

1 - The film is unnecessarily long! 3 hours is too much! It should have been complete in 2 hrs 30 minutes or so. Indian film-makers have the habit of making such unnecessarily lengthy films.

2 - The relationship between Amit-Chandi is not properly portrayed. It's shown in a superficial, "bits and pieces" manner.

Finally, many people are criticising the Climax! They think it's too dramatic and makes things very easy for the Characters! That's true.

But I've a different perception: Sometimes unforeseen "shocks" in life changes our minds for the better. We become more thoughtful, practical and understanding. It liberates us from the slavery of our deep-rooted emotions, fixations & expectations (which are the causes of many miseries/tension in relationships)!

Yes, sometimes we Humans do need some "shocks" in our lives to force us to see things from a better perspective and for the good of others as well.

Please do watch Silsila for its sensitivity, artistry, melodious music and the Climax (which I am sure you will appreciate after reading what I said above).

A cult classic that didn't perform at its release and today it is celebrated. The movie boasts one of the biggest casting coups in Indian cinema, orchestrated by the late Yash Chopra-perhaps the most significant to date. I've seen multiple clips, songs, and know the story, but somehow, I missed watching the movie in its entirety.

The movie tells the story of Amit, who falls in love with Chandni but marries Shobha because she is expecting her late best friend's child. Fate brings the lost lovers back together, threatening to shatter their current lives-a crisis that is averted when Shobha announces that she is expecting again.

All four leads-Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Rekha, and Sanjeev Kumar-deliver perfect performances. The chemistry between Rekha and Amitabh is electrifying, making you wish they were together in real life too.

It wouldn't be entirely fair to criticize the technical aspects, as they were probably considered good for that era. However, editing is shabby, the scene transitions aren't smooth at all. Capturing hill stations and foreign locations has always been Yash Chopra's forte, and he did it brilliantly in this one too.

I had a major problem with the storyline, especially how the respective partners of Rekha and Amitabh never seem to realize that something is going on between them. Too many coincidences occur just to reveal this, and in the Holi song, Amitabh gets too touchy in front of everyone. The climax, where Jaya uses her 'brahmastra' of pregnancy to win Amitabh back, is unintentionally hilarious.

The songs of the movie are beyond words and remain as fresh as a daisy. The music, lyrics, and melodious voices are pure gold. The confrontation scene between Jaya and Rekha is a highlight, with dialogue so brilliantly written that it feels like they are discussing their real lives.

Watching this movie is worth it just for the songs and the sizzling chemistry between Rekha and Amitabh.

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