Girls Will Be Girls

In the film "Girls Will Be Girls," director Rucha Mehra brings to life the poignant coming-of-age story of Mira, a 16-year-old girl navigating her adolescence within the strict confines of an all-girls boarding school nestled deeply within the majestic Himalayan mountains. Mira, a free-spirited and independent individual, finds herself at the threshold of a profound discovery as she begins to grasp the essence of romance and desire. The picturesque and serene surroundings of the boarding school, despite its rigid rules, provide an ideal backdrop for Mira's exploration of her sensuality and emerging identity. As she begins to explore her newfound emotions, Mira's connection to her mother, a strict and disciplined woman who struggles to understand and empathize with her daughter's feelings, becomes increasingly strained. Throughout the film, Mehra sensitively portrays Mira's inner turmoil and her attempts to reconcile her own sense of self with the societal expectations thrust upon her. Mira's growing awareness of her desires and longings sets her on a course that ultimately leads to a confrontation with her mother, an imposing figure who represents the societal norms and expectations that Mira is desperate to break free from. Mira's mother, while fiercely dedicated to her daughter's education and well-being, struggles to relate to her adolescent child. The mother, once herself a young girl navigating the complexities of womanhood, never had the opportunity to fully experience her own coming-of-age. This emotional baggage, carried forward from her own past, now manifests as a suffocating sense of responsibility and duty towards Mira, causing tension within their relationship. The stark contrast between Mira's blossoming emotions and her mother's rigid, stoic demeanor serves as a poignant reminder of the generational and societal barriers that often separate mothers and daughters. Mehra skillfully weaves this narrative thread throughout the film, highlighting the often-overlooked complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the enduring impact of intergenerational trauma on personal growth and relationships. As Mira's self-discovery unfolds, she begins to challenge the restrictive environment of the boarding school, pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable within the strict social hierarchy. Her determination to explore her desires and pursue her own path is met with resistance from the school authorities and her mother, who continue to exercise tight control over her life. The beautiful and rugged landscape of the Himalayas provides a fitting backdrop for Mira's emotional journey, serving as both a symbol of her inner turmoil and a source of comfort in times of uncertainty. The harsh, unforgiving environment of the Himalayas also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the limited window of opportunity for Mira to explore her desires and pursue her own happiness. Through "Girls Will Be Girls," director Rucha Mehra presents a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of adolescence, desire, and the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. The film poignantly highlights the struggle to balance individuality with societal expectations, and the enduring impact of intergenerational trauma on personal growth and relationships.