The Kashmir Files is based on real-life stories that happened in Kashmir in the ’90s. It is about the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus during the Kashmir Insurgency. Krishna Pandit(Darshan Kumar) is a JNU student who is told by his grandfather Pushkar Nath(Anupam Kher) that his parents were killed in an accident. But the truth is something else and is similar to that of so many Hindu pandits who were said to have been massacred. The story is told through Darshan’s eyes and what he goes through after knowing the shocking facts.



Kashmir is always known to be a Muslim-dominated state. But during the massive differences created between India and Pakistan, a section of Hindu Pandits were also killed. The film deals with those stories and is narrated in a gripping manner. This side of Kashmir one would have not known and Vivek Agnihotri has brought it out quite well.


Anupam Kher, who is one of the best actors does the role of a Kashmiri Pandit in the best way possible. The manner in which he mouths the Kashmiri accent and performs his heavy-hearted scenes is the best. The scenes where the Kashmiri Pandits are killed and tortured have been showcased in a shocking manner.

Darshan Kumar, who plays the JNU student is amazing and gives a breathtaking performance. TV actress, Pallavi Joshi makes a comeback after a long gap and she is amazing as well.


Minus Points:


The film showcases some of the harsh truths and issues based on the lives of Kashmiri Pandits. The way the government operates looks a bit artificial. Also, the manner in which the film moves on a serious note with multiple topics being told looks dull.


There are many scenes that are dragged to create a drama and should have been avoided. As many general audiences do not know the actual story, the director should have added more scenes to simplify the subject matter.


Technical Aspects:


The Kashmir Files has some of the best technical aspects. The hard-hitting premise is well justified by solid camerawork. The Kashmiri visuals, locations, and costumes used are quite realistic. Music is haunting and so is the BGM which takes many scenes to another level. Dialogues are hard-hitting. Production values by Abhishek Agarwal Arts are superb.


Coming to the director Vivek Agnihotri, he has done a solid job with this film. He has touched upon a sensitive subject and narrated the film without any fear. Though his theories in the film might get mixed responses, when it comes to creating a drama, Vivek has done it superbly and engages the audience.


Verdict:


On the whole, The Kashmir Files is a hard-hitting drama that showcases the issues faced by Hindu pandits in Kashmir. Terrific performances, solid drama, and unknown facts about the lives in Kashmir valley during the 90s are showcased in a brutal manner and make this film a gripping watch. Recommended.