Bastar: The Naxal Story

The movie dwells through the ground level issues of Maoism in Chattisgarh. It sheds light on how the nexus between the ruling government and Maoist leaders actually disrupted the working of SPOs and CRPF. It stays focused with the plot. However it may seem like a one sided story. The movie would have been better if it would have maintained balance by also showing why there are comrades with Maoists.

IG of Bastar is charged with suppression of Maoism which is apparently prevalent in the area in the period of 2010. A nexus between writers , educationists, universities and ruling party then in India creates hurdles for the system devised by the IG along with SPOs and camps. The brutalities of maoists is shown crisply with also mention of how international Mao movement funds this movement. The move is onesided. The critical viewpoint of Maoist is India is forgotten! If not for this last point , I recommended the movie completely.

Unlike the terrorism in Kashmir, the Left Wing extremism (LWE) prevalent in the Indian Heartland, especially in Chattisgarh, doesn't have the same intensity of resonance and revulsion, as it seems to be generally localised and is not, overtly driven by religion.

This film tries to educate by condensing the events of a decade in a coherent narrative, in less than 2 hours.

It was poignant for me as CG sits abutting my home state of MP and growing up, I used to read about these happenings in the dailies.

It contains, possibly, the most graphic sequence of dismemberment of the human body, that has been showcased in Indian cinema. It also reminds us of the 2013 massacre of the entire Congress state leadership in an attack on its convoy in Jheeram valley. Then there are visuals of CRPF soldiers set afire and the celebrations that this had triggered in JNU .

It succeeds because it is generally engaging as it keeps the narrative very simplistic. There are clearly demarcated good and evil characters, who are monochromatic, with no shades of grey.

There is an Arundhati Roy like figure (Raima Sen, again cast in the role of an anti Indian, after Vaccine War) whose role is a caricature of a conniving journalist, who exists at the intersection of NGOs, industrialists, anti- mining lobbies and politicians.

It fails because there are only cursory references to the rise of Naxalism and the reason why many tribals in CG embraced this violent way of retribution against Indian state.

More effort should have been invested in creating believable characters, with solid background and motivation rather than just relying on a chat GPT generated good and evil persons.

"Bastar" is a cinematic gem that delves deep into the heart of India's tribal heartland, offering viewers a profound narrative beautifully intertwined with the raw, untouched beauty of its setting. This film, distinguished by its authentic portrayal, powerful performances, and masterful direction, stands as a testament to the power of storytelling that resonates with both heart and mind.

**Acting Brilliance ..meow power blessings for adah sharma.

Central to the film's success is Adah Sharma, whose portrayal of a cop, inspired by a real-life figure, is nothing short of spectacular. Her performance is imbued with an intensity and authenticity that captivates the audience, bringing depth and nuance to her character. Sharma's role is a challenging blend of strength and vulnerability, which she navigates with remarkable finesse, showcasing her vast range of emotions and acting prowess. The supporting cast, too, deserves accolades for their performances, which add richness to the narrative, portraying the diverse tapestry of Bastar's society with authenticity and depth.

**Directional Mastery :- Sudipto Sen's direction in "Bastar" is a clear reflection of his visionary filmmaking style, characterized by a nuanced understanding of the cultural and socio-political landscape of Bastar. His storytelling is not just visually stunning but also emotionally stirring, offering a narrative that is as enlightening as it is entertaining. Sen's ability to weave complex socio-political themes into a captivating storyline showcases his exceptional talent and sensitivity as a filmmaker, making "Bastar" a compelling watch that stays with you long after the credits roll.

**Cinematic Excellence:** The cinematography of "Bastar" is a standout, with its breathtaking visuals that capture the essence of the region's lush landscapes and the emotive depth of its characters. Every frame is a canvas, painting the story's emotions and the natural beauty of Bastar in vivid detail. The film's visual storytelling is both informative and aesthetically mesmerizing, enhancing the narrative's authenticity and emotional impact.

**Authenticity in Production Design:** The makeup and costuming in the film are meticulously crafted, resonating with the authenticity of the tribal communities depicted. This attention to detail ensures that the audience is fully immersed in the world of Bastar, with characters that look and feel rooted in their environment, thereby enriching the film's overall authenticity and storytelling prowess.

**Skillful Editing:** The editing of "Bastar" is skillfully executed, maintaining a seamless flow that keeps the audience engaged throughout. It adeptly balances the intricate plotlines and the emotional heft of the film, ensuring that the pacing is tight yet allows the audience to absorb the narrative's depth fully.

**Aural Landscape:** The background score of "Bastar" is another highlight, with its beautifully composed pieces that perfectly complement the film's narrative arcs. The music enhances the emotional gravity of each scene, enriching the viewer's experience and elevating the film's impact.

**A Tribute to Unsung Heroes:** "Bastar" serves as a tribute to the unsung heroes of India, particularly the dedicated law enforcement officers in remote areas. The film's portrayal of these committed individuals resonates with a sense of realism, admiration, and respect, showcasing their sacrifices and the complex challenges they face.

**Why You Should Watch "Bastar":** "Bastar" is more than just a movie; it's an experience that melds gripping storytelling with significant socio-cultural insights. The film invites audiences to explore a seldom-seen part of India, depicted with an authenticity and emotional depth that is both rare and moving. The performances, particularly by Adah Sharma, are exceptional, bringing the characters to life with a realism and intensity that is truly captivating.

This film is a must-watch for its compelling narrative, stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and the way it skillfully intertwines individual stories with broader socio-political themes. It's a film that not only entertains but also enlightens, making viewers ponder long after they leave the cinema. "Bastar" is a standout piece of cinema that deserves to be celebrated for its artistry, storytelling, and the powerful message it carries. It's a film that combines the best of cinematic craft with storytelling that touches the soul, making it a significant addition to the landscape of Indian cinema.

An absolute must watch film for the today's youth. It's a gut wrenching display of an ugly, violent agenda at work, smack dab in the middle of the country. Whether arts, media or educational institutions, this movie shows the depth of the rot, having been infested with their people and ideology.

Some parts of the movie are hard to watch. But they must be shown in its entirety to showcase the hardships citizens of such areas face on a daily basis. Their lives have been stolen by a cabal of maniacal people with a rabid ideology. The lead actress has again given a stellar performance, with a script worthy of her talent. This movie is dedicated to all the soldiers who have been fighting this war and have helped keep the country safe.

The film is beautifully made with good acting. However many atrocities of the terrorists have not been revealed (maybe they were worried about the time constraints). They could have increased the length maybe by 15-30 minutes and would have included the beginning of this so called "rebellion" and how they brainwash the youth into joining it. That's why a 9/10.

Don't read those nonsensical reviews by these self proclaimed reviewers because their truth has also been revealed in this movie.

A must watch for all. It will clear all your doubts about how these self proclaimed (and to be honest bought by money) professors justify atrocities to common people like us. And if not for some honest officers how we could all end up destroying our motherland.