Review : Razakar – A Raw Depiction of Hyderabad’s Dark History

Movie Name : Razakar

Release Date : March 15, 2024

Piktalk.com Rating : 2.75/5

Starring: Raj Arjun, Markand Deshpande, Bobby Simha, Anasuya, Vedhika, Tej Sapru, Indraja, Thalaivasal Vijay

Director: Yata Satyanarayana

Producers: Gudur Narayan Reddy

Music Director: Bheems Ceciroleo

Cinematographer: Ramesh Kushendar

Editor: Thammiraju

Today marks the premiere of “Razakar” in cinemas, directed by Yata Satyanaraya. Let’s delve into its cinematic experience and see how it fares.

Story :

In 1947, when India gained independence from British rule, Hyderabad, the largest princely state, remained independent, ruled by the Nizam of Hyderabad, also known as Mir Osman Ali Khan (portrayed by Markhand Deshpande). Unlike other princely states, the Nizam didn’t immediately join India. Instead, he made a temporary agreement with India called a “standstill agreement” for one year. During this time, a paramilitary group called the Razakars, led by Qasim Razvi (played by Raj Arjun), was formed by the Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen. Qasim Razvi and the Nizam’s forces terrorized Hindus, causing great fear and suffering. The story of “Razakar” revolves around these events and what unfolds afterward.

Positive Aspects :

After watching the movie “Razakar,” if you’re hearing about the genocide that happened during the Nizam’s rule for the first time, it’s going to hit you hard. The movie portrays the horrifying atrocities committed against many Hindus and the forced conversions with such intensity that it will leave you shocked and disturbed. The scenes depicting these events are gut-wrenching and presented without holding back, making you feel a chill down your spine. There are several moments that will weigh heavy on your heart, leaving you deeply affected.

Even if you’re familiar with the historical events, the movie still grips your attention because of the meticulous attention to detail in its storytelling. The writers have done extensive research to accurately document the suffering endured by countless innocent people. The depiction of Operation Polo, carried out by the Indian Army to annex Hyderabad from the Nizam’s rule, is sure to give you goosebumps.

We often hear stories praising Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for his role in uniting the country. This film provides further insight into Patel’s efforts in integrating Hyderabad into India. It presents a clear narrative, focusing solely on the atrocities committed by the Nizam and the Razakars against ordinary people, without targeting any particular religion.

In “Razakar,” Raj Arjun shines in the role of Qasim Razvi, delivering a performance so impactful that you’ll feel the urge to confront his character head-on. Markhand Deshpande portrays the Nizam of Hyderabad brilliantly, while Tej Sapru impresses as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Bobby Simha, Anasuya, Vedhika, Indraja, and the rest of the cast deliver compelling performances. The second half of the movie is particularly gripping, with many pivotal moments keeping you on the edge of your seat.

Negative Aspects :

In the first half of the movie, you’ll see a lot of the Razakars being really brutal to Hindus. But sometimes, it feels like things are going a bit slow, and there are some scenes that seem to keep happening over and over again. The storytelling could have been done in a better way.

“Razakar” is a movie that’s made with a lot of honesty. But if you’re looking for something fun or entertaining, this might not be what you’re looking for. The movie doesn’t hold back in showing the terrible things that happened, and for some people, these scenes might be really hard to watch.

Technical Elements :

The music by Bheems Ceciroleo really hits you hard and adds a lot to the movie. The cinematographer, Ramesh Kushendar, does a great job of showing the pain and suffering of the people affected by the events. Despite having limited funds, the filmmakers managed to create a really high-quality movie, and they deserve a lot of credit for that. The visual effects are good, and the team who designed the sets did an amazing job of bringing the past to life.

Director Yata Satyanarayana deserves a lot of praise for having the courage to bring such a terrible event to the screen. The movie is not only informative and heartbreaking but also highlights the bravery of many ordinary people who fought against injustice. If the director continues making movies like this, he could have a very successful career ahead of him.

Conclusion :

“Razakar” gives a raw look at the terrible genocide that happened in Hyderabad during the Nizam’s time. It’s a movie that will truly shock you with its horrifying truths and how it tells the stories of regular people going through tough times. If you don’t know about the Razakars, this movie will really open your eyes.

The actors do a great job, and the movie is well-made technically. The first part is a bit slow sometimes, with scenes that seem to repeat, but the second half is gripping from start to finish. If you’re interested in history, this is a movie you should see this weekend.

Piktalk.com Rating: 2.75/5

Reviewed by Team Piktalk