MUMBAI: We've had some really good Bollywood movies on mental health, including Dear Zindagi, Tamasha, Chhichhore, 15 Park Avenue, Kaun, and all the way back to Nargis' classic 1967 mystery film, Raat Aur Din. However, the topic has hardly been dealt with on the small screen, and seldom managed to be documented with the somber gravitas it demands due to the big screen's commercial demands. Enter Sony LIV's new web series, Zindaginama, which simultaneously sets the record straight for both those grappling with mental health issues as also those keen to understand it better or have in some way been privy to those experiencing it.
The thing about mental health is that though we understand the commercial needs to lighten the matter in order to make it accessible to a larger audience on the big screen, the reality is far from the upbeat, hopeful side presented in these films, many of which have actually done admirable service to such issues. However, in life, it's messier, meaner, and infinitely bleaker, which is something only the small screen could boldly portray sans commercial constraints.
Kudos then to mini-batallion of fresh Directors and writers who tackle the six varied episodes of Applause Entertainment's Zindaginama, and kudos to its talented cast for the conviction and skill to breathe life into their dark, despondent outlook. Everything from PTSD and eating disorder to schizophrenia, gender dysphoria, or even gaming addiction — something rarely ushered into the spotlight during mental health conversations — gets due weightage, with valuable, provocative albeit sensitive storylines, buoyed with equally sensitive performances.
Zindaginama isn't suitable viewing after a hard day at the office or a generally tough day in life or even for a binge-worthty need during a weekend afternoon. It also could be humongously triggering for those who've gone through even a modicum of whatever's shown on screen. Plus, for all its imperatively somber nature, we wish it could've, at least here and there, lifted the damping mood a bit. For what it's worth though, it makes for a very good watch for those having dealt with, are dealing with, or been close to individuals with mental health issues
3.5/5 stars
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