Did Big B's Character Lateef Zaidi, First Propose The Blindfold-Free Lady Justice?

"Humne apne ghar mein, jo Insaaf ki Devi sthapit ki hai uski ankhon per patti nahi bandhi hai. Kyuki hum chahte hain, ki voh Devi dekhe bhi, sune bhi, soche bhi aur bole bhi." (The Goddess of Justice I have in my home does not wear a blindfold because I want her to see, hear, think, and speak.) This powerful dialogue from Advocate Lateef Zaidi, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan in the 2021 film 'Chehre,' now seems prescient. Last week, the new Lady Justice statue commissioned by the Supreme Court was unveiled without the traditional blindfold. Moreover, the sword previously held by the statue was replaced, reflecting that justice in India is neither blind nor punitive, but thoughtful and just.

'Chehre' revolves around Sameer Mehra (Emraan Hashmi), a businessman who seeks refuge at an old man's house in the mountains during a severe snowstorm. However, he soon finds himself trapped, with no escape, as a group of seasoned legal professionals draws him into a game of crime and punishment. The movie, by veteran producer Anand Pandit and directed by Rumi Jaffrey, also features Siddhanth Kapoor, Rhea Chakraborty, Dhritiman Chatterjee and Annu Kapoor in key roles.

Following its theatrical release and subsequent OTT premiere, movie buffs praised the powerful speech delivered by Bachchan's character, which addresses issues ranging from loopholes in the law to various social injustices, including the Delhi gang rape, acid attacks, and terrorism. These dialogues, which remain highlights of the movie, are now quoted in many forums while discussing the modernisation of India's justice system.

Based on theatre stalwart Ranjit Kapoor's story adapted from 'A Dangerous Game' by Friedrich Dürrenmatt, the film was co-written by Rumi Jaffery.