On my 13th birthday, my dad took me to see the movie “Slumdog Millionaire.” He had seen the movie earlier and thought it would help me learn about growing up. Being an Indian American, I have traveled to India and have seen the slums. When my dad drove me to the theater, I had no idea that I was going to a movie that would make such a big impact on my life.
The movie is about a “chai wallah,” a servant who brings tea, who grew up in the slums and makes it to the show, “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.” Jamal, the chai wallah, is both humble and honest. He may not be the smartest guy in the world, but he knew enough to survive the horrible conditions of the slums. He had a little bit of common sense, combined with passion and persistence, which helped him answer the questions and reconnect with his childhood love, Latika. While watching the movie, I realized that if I set my mind to it, I, too, could achieve anything.
I related to this movie, not only because it was shot in India and had Indian actors, but it made me think how sheltered my life is. In the movie, Jamal and Salim, two brothers, saw their mother die when they were young. They then had to provide for themselves and keep safe. They found hardships at every turn. I never realized how much I have until I saw these kids. After watching “Slumdog Millionaire,” I felt selfish because I sometimes complain when I don’t get my way. Now I think twice before I feel sorry for myself.
At the end of the movie, I thought to myself, “What would average people here understand from this movie? Would they know that not all of India is slums and not all Indians are slumdogs?”
People have to understand that the movie shows only one part of life in India. India has many millionaires and a strong middle class with educated people who make a difference in the world.
Danny Boyle’s blockbuster film, “Slumdog Millionaire,” will blow you away. The cast is full of fresh faces.
This movie, which won nine Oscars, is a must-see for everyone and is coming out on DVD on Tuesday. Maybe my dad will get it for me as a belated birthday present.
Monika Jain is the daughter of Drs. Manoj and Sunita Jain of Memphis. She is in the 7th grade at Lausanne Collegiate School.
‘Millionaire’ helps girl see own riches