Abhimaan is a classic 1973 Hindi film, renowned for its sensitive portrayal of how jealousy and ego can strain the relationship between a husband and wife. Directed by the master storyteller Hrishikesh Mukherjee, the film features exceptional performances by its lead pair, Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan, alongside supporting actors like Asrani, Bindu, and Durga Khote.
The Rise and Fall
The story centers on Subir Kumar (Amitabh Bachchan), a celebrated and confident playback singer. While visiting his aunt (Durga Khote) in a village, he meets Uma (Jaya Bachchan), a simple, innocent girl with a natural, melodious voice, primarily used for singing bhajans. Spellbound by her voice and modest nature, Subir falls in love and proposes marriage. Upon returning to Mumbai, Subir encourages Uma to sing professionally, believing her talent deserves a wider audience. Uma’s debut is a sensational success. Her career skyrockets, making her a national favorite and quickly overshadowing her husband.
The Conflict
Subir, once proud of his wife, begins to feel insecure and jealous as his own career slows down and people start recognizing him primarily as Uma’s husband. This shift in fortunes introduces stress, leading to constant arguments, emotional distance, and profound misunderstandings. Amidst the stress, Uma becomes pregnant but tragically suffers a miscarriage, which sends her into depression and emotional withdrawal, causing her to stop singing. Subir finally realizes that his own ego was the root cause of their sorrow. He deeply regrets his actions, apologizes, and dedicates himself to helping Uma heal. The film concludes with their emotional reunion and recovery, demonstrating the triumph of love over ego.
Musical Excellence and Success Factors
The film’s success is inseparable from its iconic soundtrack, composed by the legendary S. D. Burman. The music is often cited as a vital element that propelled the film to classic status. “Teri Bindiya Re” (Sung by Mohammed Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar),  “Ab tho hai thujh se har khushi apni” (Sung by Lata Mangeshkar),  “Loote koi man ka nagar ban ke mere saathi” (Sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Manhar Udhas),  “Meet na mila re man ka” (Sung by Kishore Kumar),  “Piya bina piya bina” (Sung by Lata Mangeshkar).
Key Elements of Success
Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s direction is praised for its sensitive and realistic handling of a complex marital relationship. Performances: The nuanced, heartfelt performances by Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan were widely acclaimed, making their on-screen chemistry and conflict deeply resonant. Music: The timeless and emotionally rich music by S. D. Burman perfectly complements the film’s narrative.
Principle Correspondent, Prime Post
Vidya Sagar Chaturvedula is a passionate film enthusiast whose four-decade career spans multiple sectors, including media and industry. Fluent in Telugu, Hindi, and English, he has a deep appreciation for cinema, particularly films in those three languages. His passion goes beyond simple viewing; he enjoys analyzing directional skill, the emotional depth of actors’ performances, and the profound meaning embedded in dialogue. Mr. Sagar is known for his ability to clearly articulate and narrate his insightful film analyses after watching a movie.
Ego and jelous will spoil the relationship between wife and husband. We commonly see this. Director Hrishikesh Mukherjee nicely picturised this domestic problem which happens in every family. Music composed by S. D. Burman simply superb which led film success.
Abhimaan movie is all about male ego. A man if successful is always supported by his wife, but if wife is successful it becomes very difficult for the man to take it. Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan acting was very natural, excellent performances and great music.
I havent seen the movie but could get a quick summary of the story line.
Sir Abhimann af film slow and entertaing
Family movie
Amitabh and jaya played important and beautiful Role
Intentionally lot
of confusion and misunderstandings
They joined to gether
Made the film super hit
Music and all songs are super hit
Brilliant direction by Hrishkesh Mukherjee. It appears as though male dominance and ego is the undelying problem of the story. However, their duet song brings them together again. Just flawless music and songs. Amitabh and Jaya Bachan lived in their characters. Very good review.
It’s easy to blame the male on the ego and jealousy factor on previous and prevailing social factors when the lady supercedes her spouse. The chauvinistic attitude is brought up to blame.
Would it have been different if the male supercedes his wife?
I feel the ladies also have this strong sense of insecurity and consequences thereon. Maybe a movie on this topic is already made.