Bucket List

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*Madhuri Dixit* takes center stage in this heartwarming Marathi drama as Madhura Sane, a middle-class housewife whose life revolves around catering to her family's needs. From cooking multiple types of bhajis to managing her in-laws’ medication schedules, Madhura neglects her own desires. However, her life changes when she undergoes a heart transplant, and soon after, she discovers her donor was a young woman named Sai, who had a bucket list of things she wished to complete before her 21st birthday. Madhura decides to fulfill this list, embarking on a personal journey of self-discovery, much to the dismay of her traditional family.

Madhura’s new passion for completing Sai’s bucket list is met with resistance. Her controlling mother-in-law (Vandana Gupte) is suspicious of her every move, her husband (Sumeet Raghavan) is indifferent, and even her daughter dismisses her as "just a mother." The only support she receives comes from her cool, understanding grandmother-in-law (Shubha Khote), who plays a pivotal role in encouraging Madhura's new adventures. In one memorable scene, Madhura, guided by her grandmother-in-law, goes to a pub, gets drunk, and even gets caught by the police—both fulfilling items on Sai’s list in the process.

The list contains youthful, rebellious tasks like wearing a 32 D bra and making out with a boyfriend in public, which create moments of humor and tension. The film’s tone remains light and feel-good, despite the occasional conflict with her family. The main dissenter, Sai’s twin brother Salil (Sumedh Mudgalkar), initially objects to Madhura completing his sister’s list but eventually becomes a supporter, reflecting the film's overarching message of personal growth.

While it’s hard to picture Madhuri Dixit in the role of a submissive housewife, she brings her signature charm to the screen. Even when her character’s transformation seems implausible, her radiant presence keeps you captivated. The film’s emotional core lies in Madhura's journey toward independence and self-expression. The film concludes with a touching moment when Madhura chooses to stay behind while her husband goes to San Jose, signaling her newfound sense of autonomy.

Supporting performances by *Renuka Shahane* and *Prakash Deshpande* as Sai's grieving parents, and *Dilip Prabhavalkar* and *Ila Bhate* as Madhura's parents, add depth and warmth to the film. *Sumeet Raghavan*, playing Madhura’s husband, portrays his role with subtlety and restraint, allowing the film's emotional dynamics to unfold naturally.

Though the film’s premise is predictable, it’s Madhuri's powerful, yet nuanced, performance that elevates the film. Her ability to convey complex emotions through silences and expressions allows you to connect with Madhura's journey on a personal level. Despite the implausible elements, *Madhura Sane's* transformation is a compelling exploration of self-discovery, and Madhuri Dixit’s commanding presence ensures the film is an enjoyable, emotional ride.