Sairaat

Sairaat is a 2016 Indian Marathi-language romantic drama film directed by Nagraj Manjule. The film stars Akash Thosar and Rinku Rajguru in lead roles, portraying the story of a lower-caste boy and an upper-caste girl who fall in love amidst societal opposition. The title "Sairaat" translates to "outcast" or "uprising" in Marathi, reflecting the themes of caste discrimination and rebellion central to the narrative.

The plot follows Parshya (Thosar) and Archie (Rajguru) as their forbidden love blossoms in a rural village. Their relationship faces immediate challenges due to the rigid caste system and the prejudice it perpetuates. The film depicts their struggle against the families and the community, forcing them to flee their home in search of a safe haven. Sairaat is known for its realistic portrayal of rural Maharashtra, its powerful performances, and its unflinching commentary on social inequality.

The film garnered widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing Marathi film of all time upon its release. It was also praised for its music, particularly the song "Zingaat," which became a cultural phenomenon. Sairaat was India's official submission for the 89th Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category, though it was not nominated. Its impact extended beyond cinema, sparking discussions about caste dynamics and inter-caste relationships in India.