Aaj Ka M.L.A. Ram Avtar

About the film

Aaj Kaa M.L.A Ram Avtar (transl. Today's MLA Ram Avtar) is a 1984 political satire film starring Rajesh Khanna. It was a remake of 1983 Telugu language film MLA Yedukondalu. The film was appreciated by critics, especially Khanna's performance, but failed to impress the box-office.

Plot

Ram Avtar works as a widowed barber in a small village and lives with his second wife, Sushma, who looks after him and his kids. Ram Avtar also personally grooms Minister Digvijay Singh. When Digvijay's political party is in need of someone to stand in the forthcoming election, Digvijay recommends Ram Avtar as his choice. This chance is grabbed by Ram Avtar and he wins the elections and becomes a big politician. Sushma watches the changes in his life from the sidelines.

Reception

The Hindu in its review of the film wrote on Rajesh Khanna's performance, "Like most of his works, it also keeps you engaged with its pulsating heart and potent dialogues. In his climactic speech, Ram Avtar brings out what ails Indian democracy. When he says that those who sell their votes are equally corrupt as those who buy them, it rings a bell. When he points out that Indian public usually claps for bombastic speeches and unrealistic promises, it seems he is addressing aaj ka (today's) voter.

Key details