Rating: 3/5
“Rautu Ka Raaz” is a deliberately paced murder mystery with a broad appeal. The film slowly builds suspense, keeping the audience engaged as the mystery unfolds. While the investigation may not be flawless, the film manages to maintain intrigue until the very end, earning it a respectable 3 out of 5 stars.
Plot
Inspector Negi (played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui) is transferred to Rauta Ki Beli, a small town in Uttarakhand, to investigate the mysterious death of Sangeeta (Narayani Shastri), a warden at a school for specially-abled children. Though the locals initially believe the death to be from natural causes, it gradually becomes evident that Sangeeta was murdered.
As the investigation unfolds, hidden secrets come to light. The film explores questions like: Who murdered the warden? Why was she killed? And what personal stakes does Inspector Negi have in this particular case?
Review
“Rautu Ka Raaz,” directed by Anand Surapur, is a 2024 Hindi-language mystery set in the tranquil town of Rauta in Uttarakhand—a place where no murders have been reported in the past 15 years. This serenity has led to a complacent police force. The film centers around Inspector Deepak Singh Negi, who struggles with traumatic stress disorder.
At the heart of the story is Sewadham School, a haven for physically disabled children. One night, the unimaginable occurs when Sangeeta, the school’s warden, is found dead. While her death initially seems natural, Inspector Negi suspects foul play.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a solid performance as Inspector Negi, while Rajesh Kumar shines as Naresh Dimri, Negi’s subordinate. Narayani Shastri, in the role of Sangeeta, has limited screen time but plays her part convincingly.
The film’s setting—a small town nestled in the mountains—adds to its atmospheric tension. Sayak Bhattacharya’s cinematography captures the stunning beauty of the region, enhancing the film’s mood and visual appeal.
