It is an Indian Marathi language slapstick film. Directed & Produced by Sachin Pilgaonkar. It is considered as cult classic in Marathi Cinema. The film stars Sachin Pilgaonkar, Supriya Pilgaonkar & Ashok Saraf.
The film portrays the journey of the couple from Mumbai to Ganapatipule to fulfil a vow.
The plot of the movie is based on the 1972 Hindi film Bombay to Goa, which itself was a remake of 1966 Tamil film Madras to Pondicherry.
Vakratund & Bhakti are a couple who have married against Bhakti’s parents wishes. Vakratund , also known as Vacky, is an artist but doesn’t have commercial success. After ten years of marriage, the couple is childless,
Bhakti gets to know from Vacky’s aunt that Vacky’s father had vowed to God that if his child is born healthy, he will ring his child to Ganapatipule naked. This vow was left unfulfilled as Vacky’s parents passed away soon. Bhakti tries to persuade Vacky but he refuses.
Finally, it is decided that a mannequin dressed as Vacky secretly will be transported to Ganapati pule by public transport. This journey is eventful & entertaining.
In 1982, Sachin thought of this film ut dropped the idea because of the budget. After 21 years, he wanted to make the film again. He asked Santosh Pawar to write the script. The initial title was ‘Chala Na Gade’ but Santosh suggested the title ‘Navra Maza Navsacha’
Sachin originally had Bharat Jadhav to play the lead Supriya was cast for the cameo of Sheila Raje. One of Sachin’s friends suggested both to take the leads. So, Reema Lagoo took over the cameo. Ashok Saraf was the first choice for the conductor. He readily accepted it.
Laxmikant Berde was selected for the role of Babu Kalia but due to his poor health, the role went to Pradeep Patwardhan. Madhurani Gokhale for the role of VJ was selected after audition.
The entire film was shot in Konkan. Some portions in Film City & on Kurla Bus Depot.
Made on a budget of Rs 80 Lakhs it garnered Rs 5 crores. A smash hit. I must have seen this movie like 100s of times. I can watch it forever. It has a freshness about it. It is a forever film.
The film was remade in Kannada as Ekdanta starring Vishnuvardhan, Prema & Ramesh Aravind in the lead roles.
The sequel of this film ‘Navra Maza Navsacha 2 was released on 20 Sept. 2024. About that in the next blog.
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