Watch Aakrosh

Aakrosh is a 1980 Hindi crime drama film directed by Govind Nihalani, starring Smita Patil, Om Puri, and Naseeruddin Shah in the main roles. The movie explored the topic of social injustice and lawlessness in rural India. It was based on a real-life story of a tribal couple, who were falsely accused of murder, and the subsequent events that followed.

The movie begins with the discovery of a dead body in a small village. The police arrive at the scene and start their investigation. The prime suspect in the case is a tribal boy named Lahanya. The inspector in charge, played by Om Puri, is a corrupt and violent man, who is determined to get a confession from Lahanya by any means necessary.

Lahanya's brother, Bhiku, hires a lawyer named Bhaskar, played by Naseeruddin Shah, to defend Lahanya in court. Bhaskar is a committed and honest lawyer, who is determined to prove Lahanya's innocence.

The plot thickens as Bhaskar starts his investigation and uncovers a web of corruption, deceit, and discrimination that is rampant in the village. The powerful upper caste people oppress the tribals, and the police, who are supposed to uphold the law, are corrupt and violent.

Bhaskar faces numerous obstacles in his attempt to seek justice for Lahanya. The village elders warn him to drop the case, and when he refuses, they threaten him with dire consequences. The police try to intimidate him and his witnesses, and even go so far as to beat him up.

Meanwhile, Lahanya is tortured by the police, who are trying to force him to confess to the crime. He is beaten, deprived of food and water, and subjected to electric shocks. It is evident that the authorities are more interested in getting a confession than finding the real murderer.

The movie shows the stark contrast between two worlds, the privileged and the oppressed. It exposes the hypocrisy and violence within the justice system and the media. It questions the idea of justice and raises important questions about the structure of society in rural India.

The performances of the lead actors are exceptional, especially that of Smita Patil. She plays the role of a tribal woman, who is the voice of the oppressed. Her performance is powerful and evocative, and she brings forth the agony of the tribals in a very nuanced and sensitive way.

The cinematography by Govind Nihalani is excellent, and it captures the raw and rugged beauty of the countryside. The movie is not just a visual treat but also a thought-provoking commentary on the social structure of rural India.

In conclusion, Aakrosh is a masterpiece of Indian cinema, which remains relevant even today. It is a reminder of the struggles of the marginalized and the oppressed, and the need for justice and equality. The movie explores themes of discrimination, corruption, and injustice, and it does so with great sensitivity and depth. It is a movie that must be watched by everyone who is interested in Indian cinema and social issues.