Diksha (film)

Diksha (Initiation) is 1991 Hindi film directed by Arun Kaul and his only feature. The film is based on a novella by eminent Kannada writer U. R. Ananthamurthy.

It was awarded the 1992 National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and 1992 Filmfare Critics Award for Best Movie. The film participated in International Film Festival of India, 1993, and won several international awards including Annonay International Film Festival Award, France, 1992; Prix Du Public (Audience Awards); and Best Feature Film in Hindi by Madhya Pradesh Development Corporation, 1992.

Placed in the early 1930s, Diksha is the story of a guru and his widowed daughter, the head disciple and the novice; the lowly-born 'Koga' who dreams of learning the intricacy of scriptures.

In a weaker moment during the long absence of her father, the young widow falls to the temptation of the flesh. The lover is not ready to accept the responsibility. The widow is forced to abort.

In the ensuing commotion the father is called back. He is forced to give his decision. He pronounces her dead and performs her 'Ghata-Shraddha' (a ritual where an immoral person is ex-communicated, pronounced dead and her last rites performed when the accused is still alive, thus depriving her of all worldly relations).

While the Brahmin society praises the guru, individuals revolt. The head disciple leaves the town; the child-novice goes back to his parents; and the Koga refuses the 'heaven' and 'salvation'.