Bollywood has finally managed to come up with a well researched and crafted product in the form of ‘Agni Varsha’ (meaning ‘The Holy Fire’). This film comes as a breath of fresh air when only few films are based on similar themes in this day and age. Based on the acclaimed Girish Karnad play ‘The Fire And The Rain’, the film's story is based on the legend of Yavakri which was derived from the Indian mythological epic, Mahabharata. The film opens on the drought-stricken land, where High Priest, Paravasu (Jackie Shroff) has been chosen to conduct the ‘yagna’ (Holy fire ceremony) to appease Lord Indra (Amitabh Bachchan). Paravasu happily dedicates seven years of his life to the ‘yagna’ by forsaking his beautiful wife, Vishakha (Raveena Tandon), his family and every earthly pleasures. Paravasu's cousin, the resentful rival Yavakri (Nagarjuna), strongly opposes Paravasu's position as High Priest. Hence he decides to seek revenge by seducing his lonely wife Vishakha. The audience also gets to see a sub-plot based on Arvasu (Milind Soman), Paravasu's younger brother. Being in love with Nittilai (Sonali Kulkarni), a tribal girl, he is all set to defy his family status by marrying her. Disturbed by Yavakri’s jealous behaviour, Raibhya, the father of Paravasu, decides to unleash upon him a demon, the Rakshasa (Prabhu Deva). Hence what follows next is a battle of wits which exudes with suspense galore as to who will win in the end. Director Arjun Sajnani has definitely defied the Bollywood norms by attempting something very different which he succeeds in the process. The excellent performances by all the lead cast manages to hold the audience’s attention throughout the film. Raveena Tandon looks ravishing; Jackie Schoff impresses ; Milind Soman gives his best to date whilst Sonali Kulkarni is simply brilliant. Anil Metha’s cinematography is a sheer treat for the eyes. He has definitely put his very best into this project and his efforts do show on screen. One thing for sure . . . .this film might not attract a huge audience but it sure has passed with flying colours at the Manchester Film Festival earlier this year where it received a standing ovation. If you are looking for something serious to get your teeth into then this film is definitely for you! Reviewed By Manish Gajjar, BBC Shropshire’s Mr Bollywood. | 
