The movie “Razakar:The Silent Genocide of Hyderabad” is a gripping historical drama directed by Yata Satyanarayana which delves into the raucous period following India’s independence from the British Governement in 1947. The core of the whole story attempts to highlight the real life history known as “Operation Polo”, the annexation of Princely State into India with the consistent efforts made by ‘Sardar Vallabhai Patel’, from the tumultuous situations which arose due to the atrocities of the Razakars, a Paramilitary wing which was actively working during that period. While the movie ‘Razakar’ aims to spot light on the significant dark chapter of the history, the movie team was able to deliver a mixed cinematic experience on a whole.
Razakar – Story Review
Since, the movie is a historical drama the filmmakers make the audience stick to the story from the beginning by narrating the real-life history as a preface to the story which further moves forwards in an Independent India after 1947. The movie ‘Razakar’ revolves around the dictatorship of Nizam of the State Mir Osman Ali Khan and the encouraged the intolerable obscenity against the innocent people. The backdrop of the story is designed with the continuous atrocities committed by the Razakars as they resist the idea of annexation with India and demand the status of a separate country. The movie underscores the resistance of the common people who undergo hard-hitting pains and the unsung heroes in the history who fought against the oppressive regime of Nizam.
The narrative introduces many historical figures like Chakali Ilamma and Sardar Patel, who form the heart of the story. Followed by Rajireddy which is portrayed by Bobby Simha as a courageous leader and Shanthavva by Vedika a determined woman battling against the superior power for justice. The movie looks more intense with the barbaric acts against both men and women in the name of religious conversion by the Razakars makes us frown and feel heavy hearted. However, the screenplay of Yata Satyanarayana falls in latching on to the gripping pace which was felt at the initial few minutes of the movie. Some of the gruesome incidents which get repeated in the following incidents could have been presented in a different way, as the screenplay causes sag. The story has its emotional depth but it lacks the nuance in storytelling and its uneven pacing resists the viewer from watching it fully engaged.
Casting and Performance Review of Razakar
One of the strongest aspects of the movie “Razakar” is its casting because the seasoned actor Tej Sapru who not only gave justice to the role of “Iron Man of India-Sardar Vallabhai Patel” but lived like the real life character throughout the movie. So does the role of Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan by Makarand Deshpande, he intimidates through his ominous mannerisms. Bobby Simha’s compelling performance as Rajireddy delivers both vulnerability and determination. The supporting actors which includes Thalaivasal Vijay, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Indraja, Chandhunath and Vedhika have contributed their best on the screen which added layers to their profound characters. Though the role Kasim Razvi portrayed by Raj Arjun has contributed significantly with his best outputs, it could make at times that this crucial character could have been developed for a greater impact. The film showcases diverse characters in its long run but hardly they persist within us.
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To compile a vast historical incident and make it into a fictional story is a challenging one and Yata Satyanarayana has given his utmost in all the possible ways, which we could witness in the successful recreation of the production design of the post-independent Hyderabad. The impactful background score of Bheems Ceciroleo elevates every frame and emotional sequence. However, the movie falters due to its inconsistent pacing because some of the scenes are too long while others look rushed. As it deals with a sensitive issue it could create mixed opinions among the audiences.
Final Verdict – “Razakar”
‘Razakar’ is a notable story for presenting the dark chapter in the history of Post-Independence India. The movie watchers whose interests fall on the genre of indigenous history with an intense drama this movie could fulfill their expectations. For the common audiences this is a decent one time watchable movie for this Republic Day. So, this movie needs more appreciation and recognition for its efforts and it can be preferred for a Republic Day binge watch.
