Baramulla Review: Manav Kaul's Film A Unique Blend of Psychological and Political Horror
Baramulla delivers a bold commentary on [translate:Кашмир's] socio-political unrest. Manav Kaul and Bhasha Sumbli brilliantly lead this nuanced and purposeful narrative.
Authenticity Through Personal Insight
When portraying diverse settings and their tragedies, does an insider’s lived experience create more authenticity, or can filmmakers tell these stories regardless of background? Personal history and identity help convey objectivity, a truth reflected in Aditya Dhar’s Baramulla. As a Kashmiri Pandit, Dhar’s perspective resonates profoundly through this story that is equally gut-wrenching, spine-chilling, and mythical.
From Short Story to Screen
In 2016, the director-producer wrote a short story about the Kashmiri Pandit community forced to flee during the devastating 1990s exodus. This story, shaped by Aditya Suhas Jambhale’s vision, evolved into Baramulla, with supernatural elements woven throughout.
Plot Overview
Set in 2016, the film follows DSP Ridwaan Shafi Sayyed and his family, recent migrants from Reasi to Baramulla. After a hostage crisis and a tragic accidental death at a public school in Reasi, Ridwaan and his daughter Noorie suffer from PTSD. In Baramulla, Ridwaan investigates the sudden disappearance of Shoaib, a child who vanished during a magic show.
"His voice as a Kashmiri Pandit finds an echo in this tale that’s gut-wrenching, spine-chilling and mythical in equal measures."
Author's summary: Manav Kaul’s Baramulla powerfully combines psychological and political horror, grounded in Kashmir’s tragic history and shaped by authentic voices and supernatural mystery.
Would you like the tone to be more formal or conversational?