We had grown up looking at our fathers for new clothes every Diwali, new toys when we were kids, and occasional family dinners where they would splurge for a wholesome end to the day. However, it is extremely easy for us to neglect their daily struggles. At the same time, it is even more difficult for them to handle all the responsibilities with a smile on their face. Bushirt, a 2024 short film, addresses these sacrifices made by our fathers.
Synopsis
Directed by Aadiep Sharma, Bushirt is a 12-minute short film about the lives of the old couple Gauri (Pradeep Ghildiyal) and Kaushalya (Jagriti Dobhal). The film opens with Kaushalya singing a Garhwali folk song when her husband, Gauri, enters the frame. Soon, they are engaged in a light-hearted domestic quarrel about eating dinner leftovers for breakfast.
Gauri is a retired old man trying to make ends meet with his pension and savings. Kaushalya, although aware of their financial limitations, wants Gauri to use his last few years of life to the fullest and care less about saving money. The couple, who also seem to be raising their grandson, are also concerned about raising him without much financial restrictions.
Throughout the film, the couple is engaged in light-hearted quarrels, and Kaushalya keeps asking Gauri to live a better life. She is seen asking him to get a few new shirts (bushirt) made for himself in light of coming festivals. She also advises him to use their car to go around instead of the old scooter Gauri is attached to. However, Gauri is extremely frugal with every decision he makes. He is unconvinced about almost every other expense he needs to make. Through their quarrels, it is evident that Kaushalya loves and cares for Gauri, but both share different love languages.
Take Away
We often find many people who have struggled to live the life that they live today being extremely frugal. Being economical is the right way to spend. However, it is equally important to treat yourself for your achievements and enjoy life to the fullest. This is even more important once you have started turning gray. Bushirt speaks to this balance and how the lack of it can sometimes lead to unfulfilled dreams. Kaushalya is shown to be worried about Gauri not living life to the fullest and thereby enjoying his last few years.
Another key takeaway from the film is the selflessness in relationships, particularly marital relationships. Sometimes, we get so engrossed in saving for our future that we forget to live in the present and care for our loved ones. Kaushalya’s character embodies this selflessness and her concern for Gauri’s well-being over her own wants. Similarly, Gauri’s character reflects selflessness, as he prioritizes providing for his family’s future over spending on himself in the present. These sacrifices, while noble, can lead to unfulfilled dreams and a sense of regret, as hinted at in the film.
Conclusion
Bushirt, portrays the endearing dynamic between Gauri and Kaushalya. Additionally, it explores the themes of selflessness, sacrifice, and the pursuit of unfulfilled dreams in the twilight years of life. The film serves as a poignant reminder to strike a balance between financial prudence and living life to the fullest, especially in our later years. As we grow older, it becomes increasingly important to savor the present moment and ensure that our dreams, however small, are not left behind.