Rating: 4/5
The 2002 Godhra train tragedy remains one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. Dheeraj Sarna’s latest directorial venture, The Sabarmati Report, delves into this harrowing event, weaving together facts, reports, and human emotions to unravel the layers of truth buried under politics and media sensationalism.
Featuring stellar performances from Vikrant Massey, Monica Dogra, and Raashi Khanna, the film offers a gripping narrative that resonates deeply. With its bold storytelling and impactful performances, The Sabarmati Report earns a well-deserved 4/5 rating.
Plot Overview
The film follows three journalists on their quest for truth amidst the chaos of the Godhra train burning incident. Monica Dogra plays Manika Rajpurohit, a shrewd editor at EBT News, who assigns Samad Kumar (Vikrant Massey) to cover the tragedy in 2002. While reporting, Samad collects sensitive evidence that could unveil hidden truths but chooses to safeguard it privately due to mounting pressures.
Fast forward five years, an EBT employee hands over Samad’s hidden cassette to Amrita Gill (Raashi Khanna), a tenacious journalist determined to uncover the full story. Together, Amrita and Samad revisit Godhra, piecing together evidence and challenging the narratives that shaped public opinion. Their investigation unravels complex truths about the tragedy, setting the stage for a tense and thought-provoking climax.
Performance & Review
Vikrant Massey shines in the role of Samad, portraying the inner conflict of a journalist torn between professional integrity and personal safety. Raashi Khanna brings determination and depth to Amrita, whose arrival injects hope and momentum into the investigation. Monica Dogra’s portrayal of Manika adds layers to the story, highlighting the power dynamics within media houses.
The film’s strength lies in its fearless approach to storytelling. The Sabarmati Report doesn’t shy away from addressing ideological clashes, media biases, and the socio-political complexities of the time. The makers deserve credit for handling such a sensitive topic with nuance, balancing the emotional weight of the tragedy with the urgency of uncovering the truth.
The narrative occasionally falters with pacing issues, but the overall impact of the story outweighs these minor flaws. The movie not only serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost but also critiques the system that allowed misinformation and biases to flourish.
Final Verdict
The Sabarmati Report is a powerful, thought-provoking film that compels viewers to reflect on the devastating events of 2002 and the importance of journalistic integrity. Dheeraj Sarna’s direction, combined with a talented cast, creates a gripping tale that demands to be seen. Whether you seek a compelling drama or a hard-hitting reality check, this movie delivers on both fronts.
Rating: 4/5 – A must-watch for those unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths.
