In that ambience of Kashmir cinema, people generally expect tales about the army and its struggle. However, with his new film Baramulla, director Aditya Suhas Jambhale depicts an antagonistic vein. Instead of the army, we get to see the story from the perspective of the police on the ground in Jammu and Kashmir.
The lead plays the character DSP Ridwan Syed, played by Manav Kaul, eternally torn between duty and a society that does not trust him; his colleagues call him a strict authoritarian, separatists term him a traitor, and even his daughter rates him as a “conservative dictator.”
Ten major matters pertaining to this film are discussed below.
Reexamining the Kashmir Conflict
“Baramulla” takes an unusual path to diverge from the beaten path. This movie tries to hold an entirely different perspective from the usual army-militant conflict. It attempts to show how a local officer balances his life between personal issues and official work through the police perspective.
The movie also exposes the long work of political and social inequalities that are deeply embedded into the day-to-day life of Kashmiris. Aditya Jambhale vaulted it into a crash, as he put it, “complex social landscape” rather than a “flat narrative“.
The Unleashing Mystery Story of Missing Children
The main plot weaves around the missing children of Baramulla. Following the investigation from Ridwan Syed, it becomes evident soon enough that this case is not very ordinary in nature.
- The connection between the disappearances of children and the crisis in the locality is profound.
- Stone-pelting incidents triggered several uprisings, making the case even more complicated.
Supernatural Elements and Fear of Families
Baramulla does not only involve political confusions and social issues; there are supernatural elements within, where Ridwan’s government residence is haunted by horrific memories of the past.
- This injects suspense into the film.
- It illustrates the personal and professional dilemmas that Ridwan faces.
- The audience is left distraught between reality and the supernatural.
Shadows of Past: Trying to Deal with the Emotional Depth
Ridwan is burdened with sorrow and guilt for a past blunder on one of his operations. Simply put, past sins and memories influence the present working and thinking of an individual.
This emotional layering elevates the film beyond being just another thriller, creating a deeper human connection with the audience.
Absolutely Perfect Cast Acting
Manav Kaul portrays the mellow and solemn side of Ridwan; he was calm but fierce, sometimes restless yet sensitive, and presented it beautifully. This made the character appeal to audiences as human, alive, and breathing.
Also providing superb supporting performances were Nilofer Hamid and Arista Mehta. As a result, the suspended atmosphere felt real and believable for the audience.
Realism About Kashmir
In this film, however, Aditya Jambhale did not show Kashmir as a postcard picture. He revealed the social rifts and instability there.
- The symbolic use of white tulips alludes to winter, representing long struggles and hardships of the valley.
- The hardships are connected not only to natural beauty but also to social problems.
Political Subtext and a Social Message
While the thriller’s suspense mounts, it becomes evident that Aditya is not merely trying to create a thrilling film.
- The political subtext portrays the phenomena of social imbalances and inequality, leading up to the abrogation of Article 370.
- It also shows how innocent civilians suffered from the seeds of sedition and dissatisfaction.
Local and Personal Story
Unlike Aditya’s past films, Baramulla presents a much closer and personal narrative.
- It explores why this generation of Kashmiris suffers.
- The film shows that history continues to haunt present generations, embodying historical mistakes.
- This demonstrates a filmmaker’s understanding of local sensibilities.
Social and Religious Complexities
The film examines historical events between Pandit and Muslim communities and their impact on the current generation.
- Ideals and morals are depicted in Pandits.
- The Muslim common citizen shows guilt toward injustice and indifference.
- This complex social structure is presented sensitively and subtly.
Conclusion
‘Baramulla’ blends thriller and supernatural elements with a political and social message.
- Manav Kaul’s performance, Aditya Jambhale’s direction, and supporting cast performances make the film emotionally and intellectually balanced.
- It entertains while provoking thought and emotion.
- For viewers who enjoy Kashmir-based thrillers that go beyond drama and action to include social and political depth, Baramulla is a must-experience film.
