Why Manju Mai from Laapataa Ladies is the fairy god mother every girl needs!

As Kiran Rao's ‘Laapataa Ladies’ turns one today, let’s decode the magic of Manju Mai, essayed by Chhaya Kadam and the traits that make her so sought after.

At a time when social media and other public platforms were abuzz with polarizing views on feminism, patriarchy, and misogyny, courtesy of the Animal blizzard, there came a film small in scale but solid in its intent that gave a refreshing perspective to aforementioned terms. One that cleared the avalanche of problematic glorifications with soft rays of its satire and realistic commentary on patriarchy, one scene at a time! Yes, we’re talking about Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ that was rooted, light-hearted, and yet delivered a strong message without making it preachy.

Set in rural India of the early 2000s, this one mirrored the struggles and strength of women in a patriarchal society, through a heartwarming tale of Phool (Nitanshi Goel) and Pushpa alias Jaya (Pratibha Ranta) two newly-wed brides who get exchanged on a train ride to their husband’s home. While Pushpa is shown to be aware and equipped enough to navigate through her problems alone, Phool is docile and naive, a damsel in distress who needs a hero to rescue her. However, her hero here isn’t the usual prince charming but a fairy godmother - Manju Mai (Chhaya Kadam). 

Also Read: The unusual friendships of ladies in Laapataa Ladies helped redefine sisterhood!

Initially reluctant, Manju Mai, who runs a tea stall at the railway station Phool gets lost at, offers to help by providing her food and shelter. Gradually, Phool wins her over with her sincerity and Manju Mai, in turn, becomes her safe haven. Phool’s naivety and docility often put Manju Mai off, however, she also understands that it is the result of her conditioning and therefore she handles her with due care and sensitivity while also warning her about the harsh realities of a woman’s life. It is often said that sisterhood or a woman supporting another woman can achieve wonderful things and this film is a fine example of it. A lot of women, especially the ones raised in a patriarchal household could relate to the movie with many of them aching for a presence and guiding light like Manju Mai, making her their modern-day fairy godmother.

Here's why!

Providing practical advice

Manju Mai endured many hardships in her life, however, she was always brave enough to take on the challenges and change things for the better. She uses the experience and wisdom thus gained to guide Phool. Her advice is honest, rooted in reality, and helps Phool put things into perspective. 

Encouraging to be self-reliant

Manju Mai educates Phool on the importance of being independent, especially for a married woman. She encourages her to be self-reliant and thus take charge of her life. Unlike a traditional godmother, she doesn’t solve Phool’s problems but empowers her enough to navigate through it. Also, by walking out of her abusive marriage, Manju Mai broke herself free from societal constraints, and she encourages Phool to do the same if needed, conveying to her that it is completely alright to live a life beyond traditional expectations.

Offering support and empathy

Besides providing a refuge, Manju Mai also offers Phool emotional support and understanding, which is something that she needed the most during her time of distress. Her thoughtfulness and empathy were also pivotal in Phool's journey of self-discovery.

The agency and dignity Manju Mai lived her life with, the fortitude she displayed while leaving her toxic family and the fierceness with which she took control of her life are extremely inspiring. The hardships life threw at her did turn her bitter but, mind you, never cold! She epitomized the magic of kindness, empathy, and resilience, making her the fairy godmother we all need because of the warmth, real-world guidance, and solid support she provides. She is our reminder to identify the strength within ourselves and pen our happy endings!

What do you think of Manju Mai? Tell us in the comments below

For more reviews, follow us on @socialketchupbinge