Battling the odds (Dastak)

Why is it that whenever I discover an obscure film, it turns out to be a tidy little gem? This time, too, after many such experiences previously, I hit upon a rare film that has blissfully passed into oblivion despite its different storyline and cast. Dastak, written and directed by Rajinder Singh Bedi, is a film that should be lauded for its innovative treatment, strong storyline and brilliant acting. It is a film that showcases the way human mind works in tandem with the circumstances in daily life and how desolation, frustration and desperation can drive people to the most extreme of reactions. This film has two superb songs composed by Madanmohan and pits the brilliant Sanjeev Kumar against a battery of actors representing the cruel and caustic world.

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