Watch Udta Punjab

Udta Punjab is a 2016 Bollywood movie that tells the story of the drug epidemic in the northern state of Punjab. The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, and Diljit Dosanjh in leading roles. Directed by Abhishek Chaubey and produced by Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor, the movie released to critical acclaim and commercial success.

The film's story revolves around four characters whose lives are intertwined due to their involvement with drugs. Tommy Singh (Shahid Kapoor) is a popular Punjabi singer who is addicted to cocaine and is caught by the police, leading to his downfall. His story becomes entangled with that of a migrant worker, Mary Jane (Alia Bhatt), who is forced into drug trafficking by the lack of opportunities in her life.

At the same time, Dr. Preet Sahni (Kareena Kapoor) is a senior doctor working at a rehabilitation center that aims to help drug addicts. She is increasingly frustrated with the lack of support and funding from the government and becomes determined to bring attention to the issue. Finally, Sartaj Singh (Diljit Dosanjh) is a police officer who becomes embroiled in a corruption scandal that threatens to derail his career.

As the four characters' paths cross and diverge, the film paints a picture of the drug epidemic in Punjab and its devastating impact on the lives of individuals and communities. The movie tackles issues such as corruption, poverty, and the failure of government institutions to address the issue.

The performances of the cast are impeccable, with Shahid Kapoor delivering a standout performance as Tommy Singh. He portrays the character's descent into drug addiction and eventual redemption with authenticity and sensitivity. Alia Bhatt also shines as Mary Jane, bringing depth to a character that could have easily become a stereotype.

Kareena Kapoor, in a supporting role, is impressive with her portrayal of Dr. Preet Sahni, a woman who is both compassionate and determined to make a difference. Diljit Dosanjh, in his debut Bollywood role, gives a nuanced performance as a police officer struggling to do the right thing in a corrupt system.

The movie's music by Amit Trivedi is another highlight, with memorable tracks such as "Chitta Ve" and "Ud-Daa Punjab" adding to the film's emotional impact.

Overall, Udta Punjab is a powerful film that sheds light on a pressing issue in contemporary India. It is a poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of the drug crisis that is ravaging Punjab and other parts of the country. The film's success at the box office and critical acclaim also contributed to the growing national conversation on the issue, leading to increased focus on addressing the drug epidemic.