Overview of "Mere Apne" (1971)
Gulzar's directorial debut, 'Mere Apne', is a compelling social drama that reflects on the disillusionment of youth. The film follows an elderly widow, played by Meena Kumari, who is deceived into believing she has found a loving home, only to be caught between two rival street gangs led by Vinod Khanna and Shatrughan Sinha. As she becomes an unwilling mediator, the film explores themes of urban decay, generational conflicts, and the loss of moral values in society. With a heart-wrenching performance by Meena Kumari and a thought-provoking narrative, 'Mere Apne' remains one of Gulzar's most impactful films, shedding light on youth angst and the struggles of the marginalized. The movie's powerful dialogues and soul-stirring music make it a timeless classic.