Dangal (2016)

Brief Intro

🎬 “Dangal,” directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is a 2016 Bollywood sports drama that chronicles the real-life story of Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, Geeta and Babita Phogat. The film showcases their journey towards wrestling glory against societal odds, emphasizing determination, sacrifice, and empowerment.

Literary Devices Used in Dangal

Symbolism

Movie SceneDevice Example
Mahavir handing over his wrestling shoes to GeetaSymbolizes passing on his dreams
Geeta cutting her hair shortRepresents breaking free from societal norms

Foreshadowing

Movie SceneDevice Example
Young Geeta and Babita’s playful wrestling matchesHints at their future in professional wrestling
Mahavir’s struggle with local wrestling tournamentsSuggests the upcoming national and international challenges

Metaphor

Movie SceneDevice Example
Wrestling matches as battles against societal normsReflects the fight for gender equality
Training ground as a battlefieldDepicts the rigorous struggle and discipline required

Irony

Movie SceneDevice Example
Geeta defeating male wrestlersChallenges gender stereotypes
Mahavir’s restrictive training initially opposed by his daughtersThe very methods they oppose lead them to victory

Imagery

Movie SceneDevice Example
Training montages showcasing physical transformationVivid imagery of hard work and progress
Depiction of rural HaryanaEstablishes the cultural and societal backdrop

Hyperbole

Movie SceneDevice Example
Geeta’s final wrestling match in the Commonwealth GamesDramatic tension and heightened emotions
Mahavir’s exaggerated training techniquesEmphasizes his dedication and intensity

Personification

Movie SceneDevice Example
Wrestling mat seen as an unforgiving adversaryAdds a layer of challenge to the sport
Training equipment portrayed as stubborn obstaclesHighlights the toughness of the journey

Flashback

Movie SceneDevice Example
Mahavir reminiscing about his wrestling daysProvides background and motivation
Geeta recalling her father’s training during matchesStrengthens her resolve and strategy

Allusion

Movie SceneDevice Example
References to legendary Indian wrestlersEstablishes a sense of legacy and aspiration
Allusions to Indian cultural practicesGrounds the story in its cultural context

Juxtaposition

Movie SceneDevice Example
Training methods of Mahavir vs. the coachHighlights different approaches and philosophies
Rural life vs. international wrestling arenaContrasts the humble beginnings with the grand stage

Character Analysis Through Literary Devices

Mahavir Singh Phogat

Literary DeviceExplanation
SymbolismHis wrestling shoes symbolize passing on his legacy to his daughters.
IronyDespite his initial desire for sons, his daughters achieve his dreams.

Geeta Phogat

Literary DeviceExplanation
MetaphorHer transformation into a wrestler reflects the breaking of societal barriers.
FlashbackUses memories of her father’s training to gain strength during matches.

Babita Phogat

Literary DeviceExplanation
JuxtapositionHer quieter determination contrasts with Geeta’s fierceness, showing different paths to success.
ForeshadowingEarly signs of her talent indicate her future achievements.

Character Dynamics

The relationship between Mahavir and his daughters drives the narrative, using devices like flashbacks to show their evolving bond. The juxtaposition of their rural upbringing with the international stage highlights their journey. Mahavir’s stern training methods are initially met with resistance, but this conflict is resolved through irony, as his daughters eventually embrace his teachings, leading to their success.

Thematic Analysis

Perseverance

DeviceExplanation
SymbolismThe rigorous training symbolizes the hard work required for success.
HyperboleExaggerated training scenes emphasize the characters’ determination.

Gender Equality

DeviceExplanation
IronyGeeta’s victories over male wrestlers highlight the breaking of gender norms.
JuxtapositionContrasts between societal expectations and the achievements of the Phogat sisters.

Family

DeviceExplanation
FlashbackMemories of family moments provide motivation and context.
MetaphorThe wrestling journey metaphorically represents the family’s unity and strength.

Cinematic Techniques That Enhance Literary Devices

Literary DeviceTechniqueExplanation
ImageryVisual CompositionThe rural landscapes and training scenes create vivid imagery.
SymbolismColor PaletteUse of earthy tones to symbolize groundedness and tradition.
MetaphorSound DesignBackground scores during training scenes add to the metaphor of struggle.
IronyEditing TechniquesJuxtaposing scenes of victory and struggle to highlight ironic contrasts.

Key Scene Analysis

Scene Selection and Breakdown

  1. Final Wrestling Match
  2. Geeta’s First Victory Against Male Wrestlers
    • Watch on YouTube
    • Breakdown: This scene uses irony and juxtaposition to emphasize the breaking of gender barriers. The reactions of the spectators and her father’s pride are highlighted through close-up shots and quick editing.
  3. Training Montage
    • Watch on YouTube
    • Breakdown: A powerful montage that employs imagery and symbolism. The visual progression of the Phogat sisters’ transformation is complemented by a motivating soundtrack, illustrating their journey and dedication.

Conclusion

Interactive Quiz

  1. What literary device is used when Geeta recalls her father’s training during her matches?
  2. Which character’s quiet determination contrasts with Geeta’s fierceness?
    • A) Mahavir Singh Phogat
    • B) Babita Phogat
    • C) Young Geeta
    • D) The wrestling coach
  3. What theme is highlighted through Geeta’s victories over male wrestlers?
    • A) Perseverance
    • B) Family
    • C) Gender Equality
    • D) Tradition
  4. Which device is used to symbolize the passing on of Mahavir’s legacy to his daughters?
Index