Dashmi

"Dashmi" is not just a film - it is a powerful cry for justice, a raw reflection of the rotting wounds in our society, and an emotional rollercoaster that leaves a lasting impact.

At first glance, Dashmi might feel like yet another biased portrayal with communal undertones - especially when the first accused is shown to be a Maulana. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the film is not targeting any religion, caste, or class. Instead, it exposes the brutal truth: that predators can come from any walk of life - whether it's a pandit, priest, Maulvi, or an average man in power. The evil of child rape knows no religion, and that's the message Dashmi drives home with brutal honesty.

The story follows a secret group of five vigilantes who kidnap accused child rapists - people who have somehow escaped the grasp of law. They force these criminals to confess live on camera, and in a symbolic act of justice, plan to burn them in the effigies of Ravana's ten heads on the sacred festival of Dussehra. It's a hauntingly poetic blend of tradition and rebellion, where Dashmi becomes more than just a date - it becomes a metaphor for cleansing evil.

The emotional weight of the film is overwhelming. As the backstory behind the name "Dashmi" is revealed, it's impossible not to cry. It stirs up intense hatred for the perpetrators and a helpless rage that makes you want to step into the screen and take justice into your own hands. Few films manage to evoke such strong emotional responses - Dashmi does it effortlessly.

Vardhaan Puri, Aadil Khan and Gaurav Sareen deliver strong performances, while Monica Chaudhary adds emotional depth to the narrative. Although a few performances feel weak in parts, the compelling storyline overshadows any such shortcomings. The cinematography is gritty, real, and fits the theme. The music deserves a special mention - not only are the songs beautifully composed, but they also serve as emotional pillars in key scenes. They hit hard, often bringing tears.

The only major drawback is the runtime. At 2 hours and 25 minutes, the film does feel stretched, especially in the second half. With a tighter edit, trimming around 20-30 minutes could have made it more gripping without losing impact.

Dashmi is more than a movie - it's a societal mirror. It's bold, painful, disturbing, and above all, necessary. Shantanu Anant Tambe's vision deserves recognition for tackling such a horrifying subject with bravery and depth. This film should be watched by everyone - not just as entertainment, but as a wake-up call.

Highly recommended. It will stay with you long after the screen fades to black.