Guru is a biographical drama that was released on January 12, 2007. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the movie stars Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Mithun Chakraborty, R. Madhavan, and Vidya Balan in pivotal roles.
The film is loosely inspired by the life of Dhirubhai Ambani, the founder of Reliance Industries, and narrates the journey of a small-town man rising to unimaginable success. With powerful performances, engaging storytelling, and mesmerizing music by A.R. Rahman, Guru remains one of the finest films in Indian cinema.
This article explores the film’s plot, highlights, strengths, weaknesses, and box office performance, giving you a complete review of why Guru is a must-watch.
Plot Summary
The movie follows Gurukant Desai (Abhishek Bachchan), a young and ambitious man from a small village in Gujarat. Determined to make it big, he moves to Mumbai with his wife Sujata (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan) and sets out to establish his business empire.
Despite numerous challenges, including rivalries, government restrictions, and ethical dilemmas, Guru’s relentless determination helps him build one of the biggest business empires in India. However, his success comes at a cost, leading to controversies and legal battles.
The film portrays his rise, struggles, and moral conflicts, making it an inspiring tale of ambition and perseverance. It keeps the audience hooked, showcasing both the glory and price of success.
What’s Good?
1. Outstanding Performances
- Abhishek Bachchan delivers his career-best performance as Guru. His transformation from a young dreamer to a powerful businessman is truly commendable.
- Aishwarya Rai Bachchan shines in her role as a supportive yet strong-willed wife.
- Mithun Chakraborty plays a powerful role as a veteran journalist who questions Guru’s methods.
- R. Madhavan and Vidya Balan add depth to the narrative with their compelling performances.
2. Mani Ratnam’s Brilliant Direction
The storytelling is gripping, with Mani Ratnam ensuring that every scene has an emotional and dramatic impact. His ability to balance business, personal emotions, and societal impact is praiseworthy.
3. A.R. Rahman’s Soulful Music
The music by A.R. Rahman elevates the film’s emotional appeal. Some of the most memorable tracks include:
- Tera Bina – A soulful melody that captures love and longing.
- Mayya Mayya – A catchy and exotic song with stunning visuals.
- Jaage Hain – A motivational track that beautifully fits the movie’s theme.
4. Cinematography and Production Design
The visual storytelling is breathtaking. From the narrow streets of Gujarat to the grandeur of Mumbai, every frame is carefully crafted to enhance the narrative.
5. Engaging Screenplay and Dialogues
The powerful dialogues add depth to Guru’s journey. Lines like “Agar sapne dekhne ki himmat hai, toh unhe poora karne ki bhi honi chahiye” resonate deeply with the audience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Strong and inspirational story based on real-life events.
- Brilliant performances by the entire cast.
- A.R. Rahman’s music that enhances emotional depth.
- Cinematic excellence in terms of direction and visuals.
- Realistic depiction of the corporate world and business struggles.
Weaknesses
- The pace of the movie slows down in the second half, making some parts feel stretched.
- Complex business terminology might not be understood by all viewers.
- Slightly glorified portrayal of Guru’s character, making it difficult to judge his ethical stance.
Target Audience
Guru appeals to a wide range of audiences, including:
- Business and entrepreneurship enthusiasts who enjoy inspiring success stories.
- Drama lovers who appreciate movies with strong emotional depth.
- Fans of Abhishek Bachchan and Mani Ratnam looking for exceptional performances.
- Music lovers, as A.R. Rahman’s compositions are unforgettable.
If you enjoy biographical dramas and motivational films, Guru is definitely a must-watch.
Box Office Details
The film was made on a high budget but managed to recover its cost and become a commercial success. Below is a detailed table showing its financial performance:
| Budget | INR 22 Crores |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross Collection | INR 83 Crores |
First 5-Day Box Office Collection (India & Overseas)
| Day | India Collection (INR) | Overseas Collection (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 4.2 Crores | 1.3 Crores |
| Day 2 | 5.1 Crores | 1.5 Crores |
| Day 3 | 6.3 Crores | 1.7 Crores |
| Day 4 | 5.8 Crores | 1.6 Crores |
| Day 5 | 6.0 Crores | 1.8 Crores |
The film had a strong opening, and positive word of mouth helped it sustain good collections. It performed exceptionally well overseas, especially in the Middle East, the USA, and the UK.
Recommendation
Guru is a compelling and inspiring biographical drama that delivers a powerful message about ambition, determination, and success. While it has a few flaws, its strong performances, emotional depth, and brilliant music make it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
If you love motivational movies with a mix of drama and business insights, Guru is a must-watch. Highly recommended for fans of biopics, inspiring stories, and A.R. Rahman’s music.
