Sri Raghupati

The story of 'Sri Raghupati' progresses in a very linear structure. It introduces us to Pori, who is driven by a genuine dedication and a passion for teaching, as she takes up a position in a village school located in the remote regions of Assam. However, tragedy strikes when Pori is found dead under mysterious circumstances, and the two young school going girls, who had accompanied her on their way home from school, go missing. In response, Raghupati Rai Baruah, an ACS officer renowned for his integrity and diligence, embarks on a mission to locate and rescue the missing girls. Along the way, he stumbles upon a wide network that is involved in the trafficking of young women and children. This illegal operation is masterminded by Altaf, a notorious criminal figure who leverages his extensive connections to transport the abducted women and children across the border to Bangladesh.

'Sri Raghupati' offers a captivating blend of suspense and unexpected twists that engage the audience throughout its duration. The first half unfolds at a leisurely pace as the central conflict surrounding Pori's death takes its time to materialize due to the linear progression of events. Initially, the film presents itself as a delightful family drama, where everything falls into place and everyone is happy and content. It is also accompanied by moments of lighthearted comedy. However, the narrative undergoes a significant shift in tone and momentum with the striking occurrence of Pori's unfortunate demise.

From thereon, the film undergoes a dramatic shift as Ravi Sharma, hands over his resignation letter, and takes the matter of investigating the death of Pori into his own hands, unleashing a series of intense action sequences that stands out in Assamese cinema of recent times. The second half exhibits a gritty atmosphere, saturated with crime, violence, and bloodshed. It is also characterized by a loud sound mixing, as the action sequences are amplified to a high decibel level, ensuring their impact is felt thunderously inside the cinema hall.

But the element of suspense in 'Sri Raghupati' could have been enhanced by withholding the revelation of Pori's fateful incident contrary to the linear and straightforward manner in which it has been told now. Presenting it as a flashback would have allowed for a greater impact to be delivered from the death. Then, the ambiguity surrounding Pori's fate, coupled with the case of the missing girls, could have added more depth or an additional layer of complexity to the emotional challenges faced by the character of Raghupati.

In this film, actor Ravi Sharma's prowess extends beyond his physical abilities to include his skillful delivery of dialogues. "If they are storm, then I am fire and fire burns brighter when winds blow", he says. He stands out as an honest officer and a compassionate individual, dedicated to rescuing the lives of several innocent young girls. He has justified his character, delivering a performance that exudes a heroic aura in every frame. His on-screen presence is captivating, as he flawlessly portrays the required attitude and expressions for the role.

Suvrat Kakoti's direction in the film is characterized by its vibrant and energetic style, effectively capturing the essence of the protagonist Raghupati. Kakoti skillfully balances the contrasting facets of Sharma's character. When clad in a formal suit, Raghupati exudes a composed and rational demeanor, preferring negotiations to resolve conflicts. However, when he sheds his shirt, Raghupati transforms into a formidable and aggressive force, ensuring swift and brutal retribution for any wrongdoings. Director Suvrat Kakoti expertly navigates these nuances, by bringing out only the necessary intensity and aggression in each scene.

The action sequences are remarkable, enhanced further by the technical advancements of recent times that have elevated the visual aesthetics of Assamese cinema. This is particularly evident in the climactic scenes, which undoubtedly can be declared as the pinnacle of the film. Ravi Sharma appears to relish his role, particularly in the exhilarating fight sequences, where he shines. However, it is regrettable that Preety Kongana and Priyam Pallabee are given only limited opportunities to showcase their talents in the film.

Actor Raj Sharma delivers a striking performance as Altaf, displaying remarkable boldness and conviction in his portrayal. However, it is veteran actor Arun Nath who adds an unprecedented swagger to his role, leaving a lasting impression. While Ravi Sharma's performance deserves applause, Arun Nath's never-seen-before captivating portrayal garners even more admiration, earning him double the applause and appreciation. Siddhartha Sharma's character is also very interesting in the way that he sucks philosophies out of Bhupan Hazarika's songs and combines them with mythology.

Although the film is rescued by the performances and technically strong execution, 'Sri Raghupati', falls short in terms of delivering an inspiring or groundbreaking storyline. It treads familiar territory that has been explored numerous times before. And there are serious shortcomings in the script of the film. Most importantly, the film lacks a personality. While there are unique character experiments involving Siddhartha Sharma and Arun Nath that are specific to this film, but collectively, the film fails to establish a distinct identity. Perhaps it is because the film revolves around its titular character, and the portrayal and appearance of the character does not significantly differ from Ravi Sharma's other recent works. Or maybe the thematic and aesthetic resemblances are stronger which connects 'Illegal', 'Black and White' and 'Sri Raghupati' together.

However, regardless of the dated storyline, the uneven pacing in the first half, and the almost non existent role of the female characters, 'Sri Raghupati' successfully fulfills its purpose by providing ample action for fans of the genre, catering exclusively to their preferences. Those anticipating a novel story may be easily disappointed, but those seeking excitement from slow-motion fights and the intense flavor of heroic bloodshed will undoubtedly find enjoyment in it.

Ravi Sarma did something new in Jollywood film industry .Storyline and cinematography also plus songs ufffff what a harmony and shooting scenes are fantastically great. After watching "SRI RAGHUPATI" I have greatly inspired by KK sir (Siddhartha Sarma)'s dialogue and morals. When you watch some movie in middle of the story sometimes you feel bored but beleive me this Assamese movie is something give new vibes thanks to editor and director I never felt bored but instead I booked tickets again to see this masterpiece with my family. Before I watched this movie in Cinema Hall with my some of my friendsss.

Yes!! Best!!! Beacuse this movie gives us a new hope of upgrading our Assamese Movie industry.

Story presentation, camera angles, dialogue delivery, fast timing one by one scenes, comedy scenes in appropriate times, fight scenes are excellent and as good as hero's acting villain's acting was also very good.

Everything was excellent, except Ravi sharmai gun ru bullet 2 kor pora lole???🤔 Nd KK dar acting 2 jiman ata hobo lagisile kobat kiba ata missing thaki gol. Raghupatir r bhoniyekor deadbody 2 anute dautakor ata expression beleg hobo lagisile ok kandibo nuwara hoi goisile but body expression 2 alop better hobo parile hoi, Baki 10/10 ... Hope ru better hobo .

Saurav kakoti best of luck for next movie ..👍

Raghupati is an Assamese Action thriller revolving around missing girls where Raghupati, the right guy stands on one side and the human trafficking on the other. It's a thrilling adventure about how a common govt police employee dug deep to expose and wage war against the trafficking racket that plagued the society for ages. Raghu's personal loss and the corrupt system moved him to the root to act as fire against the hurricane. Arun Nath is dashing as the punky old guy who is left with few years but with commendable commitment to fight against evil. Both duo is a memorable pair that stands with each other in this modern re-retelling of the great epic Ramayana. As said by Tora's father there are many Ravans in today's time and make us remember Sudhakontho's lyric that says --- let life fades in the war against Ravan.

The film's vibe is new to Assamese audiences. Ravi Sarmah is the bright spot in the film, reflects the hard man with righteousness. Other casts are also well done, decent and touchy. The script is also well written, meaningful plots with fun themes imbibed with regional sentiments. There are significant scenes of dragginess dependent upon BGM but you will feel the suspense throughout. The story wàs good with moral rigidity. The presentation nevertheless is adopted from modern Bollywood action thriller, having unrealistic action sequences and fast paced sounds. But the social set up is detailed whether it be rural or urban landscape. The film is undoubtedly a commercial success earning about 130 million gross. It will definitely earn the Assamese approval for it being the good attempt to add modern flavour to traditional cinema. Arun Nath also in new look, is bonus treat to watch.

It's an Assamese film upgraded in its technical aspects. The film has few flaws like being noisy or highly BGM dependent. But the nook and edges of the script are well knitted. Assamese filmmakers should not stop here and must work to create new quality based films for upcoming generations, with real stories and realistic presentations which well appeals to society. Trying for realistic plots will be a good start. For an attempt to make a film with all the equipments and members it's a 7/10. A full 70/100.

Sri Raghupati is a landmark movie in the Assamese Commercial Film space. Every Assamese should watch this movie. Humble Request 🙏

PROS :

1. Ravi Da is the centre point of the Movie, shines as the Bright Sun of the Raghupati solar system. He was able to enact all kinds of emotions with equal dexterity, whether it be humour, tragedy or rage.

2. Suvrat showed amazing levels of maturity and detailed orientation through his Direction. A promising Director who is going to surprise us more through his genius in the coming future

3. The actresses and the supporting actors ( few of them already popular from the Behabari Outpost TV serial) have done commendable job in their roles. Noteworthy is the awesome theatrical enact of the message: " Ravan's demise did not end Evil, rather it led to the origin of Thousands of Ravans and this is where Sri Raghupati needs to fulfill his duties once again to counter them "

4. The background music and the songs are of really high quality, definitely on par at national level. The music producer and his team has done a great job. Zubeen Da shines as the Gem of Assamese music Industry once again through his single Biggest Hit Song of the movie : Tumi aaru Moi

CONS :

1. The action scenes have a South movie flavour. Hoping for more originality in the future endeavours

2. Both Bezbarua 2 and Raghupati seem to idolize Salman Khan, I assume, because both of them have actors tearing up their shirts to display their muscular body before proceeding with the actual fight. This is very funny. Let's hope that we get to see fresh flavours of action scenes without trying to copy any Salman Khan's moves or Bollywood or Tollywood.

3. Nobody uses tape recorder in today's age. Another funny aspect. The implicit meaning of the statement can be understood well by Raghupati cast and creators.

4. The story is predictable, though enjoyable and suited for the 2-hour timeframe. This is not exactly a demerit but a humble request for more original content in future endeavours

In the end, I would like to mention that With the advent of OTT platforms, the challenge to hold attention/interest of Assamese audience is real. The only way to face the challenge is to stick to our basic cultural roots. As the famed director of Amish, Bhaskar Hazarika, has rightly suggested to have a clear and open mind by avoiding watching other movies and not getting influenced. Let the mind play its creative tricks on its own in bringing out new creation. We have many unique movie themes in our Beloved culture and state which can be found nowhere else in the world.

Thank you so much once again to the entire Raghupati team for the wonderful movie experience and Wishing for more success in the future.