Smita Patil’s Bhumika is the celebrity biopic that should have been the blueprint for The Dirty Picture, Mahanati

Smita Patil, the late legendary actress known for her groundbreaking performances, continues to inspire generations of actors with her talent and versatility. Among her notable works, the biographical drama Bhumika stands out as a shining example of a well-crafted celebrity biopic. As audiences reflect on recent releases like The Dirty Picture and Mahanati, many argue that Bhumika should have been the blueprint for these films.
Bhumika, released in 1977, was directed by Shyam Benegal and depicted the life of renowned Marathi actress Hansa Wadkar. Smita Patil delivered a powerhouse performance as the complex and multi-faceted Usha, drawing critical acclaim and earning her the National Film Award for Best Actress. The film explored themes of identity, sexuality, and the struggles faced by women in the film industry, presenting a nuanced portrayal of a real-life personality.
Comparisons between Bhumika and recent celebrity biopics like The Dirty Picture (2011), based on the life of Silk Smitha, and Mahanati (2018), based on the life of South Indian actress Savitri, have been inevitable. While the latter two films achieved commercial success and garnered accolades, some critics and audiences believe they fell short in capturing the true essence of the respective personalities they portrayed.
Bhumika offered an honest and introspective exploration of the protagonist’s journey, delving into her triumphs, vulnerabilities, and personal struggles. Smita Patil’s masterful portrayal, combined with Shyam Benegal’s sensitive storytelling, created a film that celebrated the complexities of its central character, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. The film’s screenplay, character development, and attention to detail set a high bar for celebrity biopics.
In contrast, The Dirty Picture and Mahanati were criticized for excessive dramatization and a focus on superficial aspects of the subjects’ lives. While both films had exceptional performances by Vidya Balan in The Dirty Picture and Keerthy Suresh in Mahanati, some felt that they missed the opportunity to delve deeper into the character’s motivations and the social context of their times.
The success of Bhumika lay in its ability to balance realism and storytelling, providing an authentic and thought-provoking experience for the audience. Smita Patil’s commitment to her craft and her willingness to fully embody the complexities of her character set a benchmark for actors portraying real-life figures. The film was a testament to the power of storytelling, shedding light on the struggles faced by women in the film industry and society at large.Source:- TOI
As the discussion around celebrity biopics continues, fans of Smita Patil and film enthusiasts urge filmmakers to revisit Bhumika as a model for creating compelling and authentic portrayals of real-life personalities. The film’s ability to delve into the nuances of its subject’s life without compromising on storytelling or sensationalism serves as an important lesson for future biopics.
While The Dirty Picture and Mahanati achieved success in their own right, the comparisons to Bhumika highlight the potential for more nuanced and introspective storytelling in the realm of celebrity biopics. As filmmakers explore the lives of iconic figures, they can draw inspiration from Bhumika and its ability to captivate audiences by presenting a holistic portrayal of real-life characters. 
Share your views in the comments