The story of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks has been depicted on screen many times, sometimes through the lens of police bravery, and sometimes through the struggles of doctors. Now, once again, the pain of 26/11 has been presented through the courtroom. Ajmal Kasab was the only terrorist captured alive in the 26/11 terrorist attacks 18 years ago. Lawyer Ujjwal Nikam worked tirelessly to secure his death sentence. Now, Avinash Arun Dhavare has brought this story to the big screen. Read the review of ‘Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam,’ which is currently releasing in theatres.

Prahaar Review

'Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam' begins with the 26/11 attacks and the subsequent arrest of terrorist Ajmal Kasab (Lalit Prabhakar). This then begins the legal battle to ensure Kasab's execution.

Renowned lawyer Ujjwal Nikam (Rajkummar Rao) begins a legal battle to ensure Ajmal Kasab's death, but it's not easy. Kasab misleads with his statements, sometimes claiming he's 17 years old, and sometimes claiming he came to Mumbai to become an actor.

The film depicts Ujjwal Nikam's professional life as well as his personal life. He struggles with his son, who follows Nikam's example, while his wife struggles with cancer. The story revolves around Ujjwal's personal struggles and how he brings Kasab to the gallows. 

Film Direction And Screenplay 

The film's story is good, but its presentation could have been better. Avinash Arun Dhavare, who has directed series like ‘Paatal Lok’ and ‘Pritam & Pedro,’ fails to bring emotion to the story, especially in the first half. The pain of 26/11 doesn't resonate directly with the heart, which makes the story lack an emotional connection. 

The first half is very slow, jumping straight into the court proceedings. The second half depicts the harrowing events of the 26/11 terrorist attacks. The film picks up its pace in the second half. The music isn't particularly impressive, but the dialogue is decent.

Rajkumar-Vamika Won Hearts

Rajkummar Rao has lived the role of Ujjwal Nikam. Whenever he appears on screen, the anger of 26/11 is clearly visible in his eyes. He has breathed life into this character. Wamiqa Gabbi, who plays Ujjwal Nikam's wife, has also done a superb job. Meanwhile, Jaideep Ahlawat leaves an impact every time he appears on screen. The other co-stars, including Sikander Kher, also do justice to their roles.

Great Story, Average Delivery 

From the film's direction, screenplay, cinematography, background music, and dialogues, all could have been enhanced to make the story even more compelling, making this historical film even more impactful. Because beyond just having a good story and good actors, it's also crucial to bring it to life in an equally impressive manner.

Final Verdict

If you're a Rajkummar Rao fan and enjoy courtroom dramas, but you have no other option, you might want to check out Ujjwal Nikam's story, Prahaar. But if you're expecting a powerful and heart-wrenching account of a historical event like 26/11, you might be a little disappointed.

Image credits: IMDb/YouTube

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