Malini Sharma’s enigmatic performance in Vikram Bhatt’s Raaz (2002), writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

Garmi-e-hasratein nakaam se jal jaate hai, hum chiragon ki tarah shaam se jal jaate hai, shama jis aag mein jalti hai numaish ke liye, hum ussi aag mein gumnaam se jal jaate hai, jab bhi aata hai tera naam mere naam ke saath, jaane kyun log mere naam se jal jaate hai.

In the realm of Bollywood horror, few films have left as indelible a mark as Vikram Bhatt’s Raaz. Released in 2002, the film captivated audiences with its spine-tingling narrative, atmospheric cinematography, and haunting melodies. However, amidst the eerie backdrop and supernatural occurrences, one performance shone brightly, leaving an unforgettable impression on viewers – Malini Sharma’s portrayal of Malini (Dino Morea’s fling).

Faasla shiddat-e-ehsaas se kam hota hai … ek zara haath bada do toh chu loon tumhe

From the moment she graced the screen, Malini Sharma embodied the essence of enigma and vulnerability, effortlessly drawing audiences into her character’s tumultuous journey. She enters a married Aditya’s (Dino, married to Sanjana – Bipasha Basu) life on a stormy and chilly night. As the night and the rain grow, Malini urges Aditya to enjoy the loneliness and the darkness all around. The mysterious Malini recites beautiful couplets, shers and shayaris, leaving Aditya awestruck. Though she goes away the next morning, Aditya stops her and says, “Main barbaad hone chahta hoon.”

Dil ke faasle ehsaas se kam hote hai

Her sensuous charm works wonders on Aditya. However, he begins to fear the consequence of an extra-marital affair with her. But, a stubborn Malini decides not to leave Aditya so easily. After a series of events, she shots herself, promising to make a comeback.

Main pencil se likhi hui ibaarat nahi hoon … jise jab chaha likha aur mita diya

A year later, when Sanjana and Aditya arrive at the same place (Ooty) to rekindle their love and feelings, Sanjana hears strange noises, cries and sounds, finds things missing and misplaced. Sanjana, a newlywed grappling with unexplained phenomena in her marital home, tries to figure out the reasons behind all these activities.

The presence of Malini’s is not shown but made it feel. Ashutosh Rana, who plays Prof. Swaroop, senses the presence of a spirit in the house. It is that feeling (presence of a spirit) that sets Raaz apart from other Hindi horror movies. Malini’s performance apart was her ability to convey layers of emotion with subtlety and nuance. In moments of anger, she asks Aditya to tell everything about her to his wife Sanjana. In Sanjana’s case, beneath the surface, there lingered a quiet strength, a determination to unravel the mysteries plaguing her life.

Malini’s performance evolved, mirroring her own transformation from a damsel in distress to a woman madly in love and need of Aditya. Her chemistry with Dino Morea adds depth to their short-lived relationship, and especially the melodious ‘Aapke Pyaar Mein.’

One of the most memorable aspects of Sharma’s portrayal was her portrayal of the supernatural possession that befalls Sanjana. In these sequences, Sharma embraced the darker facets of her character, channeling a haunting intensity that left an indelible impression on audiences. Her ability to embody the malevolent force consuming Sanjana added an extra layer of terror to the film’s already chilling narrative.

Kabse is pyasi zameen pe barish ki ek boond tak nahi giri … par aaj yahan toofan aayega

As mentioned above, beyond her performance, Malini’s contribution to Raaz extended to its iconic soundtrack. Her ethereal presence in ‘Aapke Pyaar Mein’ added a haunting allure to the film’s promotional campaign, further solidifying her status as a standout talent in Bollywood.

Saare jahan ka dard sametkar, jab kudrat se kuch na ban saka … toh usne tumhari yeh do aankhen bana di

In retrospect, Malini Sharma’s portrayal of Malini in Raaz remains a testament to her prowess as an actress. Through her captivating performance, she imbued the film with a sense of humanity amidst its supernatural backdrop, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences and securing her place in Bollywood’s pantheon of memorable performances.

Kabse is pyasi zameen pe barish ki ek boond tak nahi giri … par aaj yahan toofan aayega.