Almonds Creations’ Fatteshikast (Marathi; UA; meaning ‘Victory’) is the story of how Chhatrapati Shivaji and his army defeated Mughal emperor Shahiste Khan and gained control over the latter’s Lal Mahal palace. In the fight, Shivaji cuts three fingers of Shahiste Khan after Shivaji’s armymen kill Shahiste Khan’s son, Fatte Khan.
Digpal Lanjekar has recreated Maratha and Mughal history to narrate one chapter from it. The story has a lot of action but limited drama. Digpal Lanjekar’s screenplay is engaging in parts and it evokes patriotic feelings among the viewers.The dialogues, written by Digpal Lanjekar, are weighty.
Chinmay Deepak Mandlekar acts ably as Chhatrapati Shivaji. Mrinal Kulkarni performs very well as Shivaji’s mother, Rajmata Jijamata. Harish Dudhade impresses as Bahirji Naik. Mrunmayee Deshpande makes a mark as Keshar/Fulwati. Ankit Mohan (as Yashaji Kank) and Ajay Purkar (as Tanaji Malusare) provide nice support. Anup Soni is alright as Shahiste Khan. Sameer Dharmadhikari has his moments as Namdar Khan. Trupti Toradmal makes her presence felt as Raybaghan. Aastad Kale is effective as Kartalab Khan. Digpal Lanjekar leaves a fine mark as Baaji Sarjerao Jedhe. Prasad Limaye (as Balaji Deshpande), Vikram Gaikwad (as Chimnaji Deshpande), Rishi Saxena (as Fatte Khan), Akshay Waghmare (as Koyaji Bandal), Nikhil Raut (as Kisna), Ruchi Savarn (as Soyarabai), Ramesh Pardeshi (as Amar Singh), Rajesh Aaher (as Baaji Prabhu Deshpande) and the rest do as desired.
Digpal Lanjekar’s direction is quite nice. Devdatta Manisha Baaji’s music is average. His background score is impactful. Lyrics (Santshreshta Tukaram Maharaj, V.S. Khandekar, Kaviraj Bhushan and Digpal Lanjekar) are weighty. Subhash Nakashe’s choreography is routine. Reshmi Sarkar’s camerawork is of a fine standard. Babbu Khanna’s action and stunts are fairly nice. Editing (Pramod Kahar) is sharp.
On the whole, Fatteshikast is an above-average fare.
Released on 15-11-’19 at Bharatmata (daily 2 shows) and other cinemas of Bombay thru AA Films. Publicity: good. Opening: fair.