Peepli Live: Revisiting a Cinematic Turning Point of the Millennium’s First Decade

*Peepli Live*, produced by Aamir Khan and released in 2010, is a film with significant impact. Director Anusha Rizvi’s writing highlights the plight of rural characters striving to survive, hoping for a government solution to escape poverty. While drawing parallels to films such as Mehboob Khan’s *Mother India* and Mazhar Kamran’s *Mohandas*, Rizvi offers a unique take on the struggles of the common person. The actors, a mix of known faces and those new to acting, embody the desperation of their characters. The film addresses the prevalent issue of farmer suicides with a raw honesty. It uses dark humor to expose the harsh realities of life. The film’s dialogue reflects the authentic language of the characters, especially Budhia and Natha. Raghuvir Yadav’s portrayal is exceptionally integrated into the narrative. The story satirizes politicians and provides a critical assessment of the electronic media and its fixation on TRPs. The cinematography by Shanker Raman, employing earthy tones, reflects the invasive nature of the camera’s presence. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s character, the lone voice of conscience, stands out. Through *Peepli Live*, Rizvi has made a strong directorial debut, focusing on those often ignored and proving that the cinematic conscience still exists. Rizvi has become an important directorial figure.