Review: Bobby Deol Shines in this Raw, Relentless, and Remarkable Authentic ‘Bandar’!

The issue of false allegations, including those made under the #MeToo movement and rape provisions such as Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code, remains a sensitive and widely debated subject. While genuine victims of sexual crimes deserve justice and protection, cases that are ultimately found to be false can have devastating consequences for the accused. Individuals may lose their reputation, employment, relationships, and years of their lives while fighting lengthy legal battles.

The problem becomes even more severe when an accused person is sent to jail as an undertrial. India’s overcrowded prison system often presents harsh realities, where inmates struggle for basic facilities and dignity. Allegations of corruption, extortion, and the need to pay for better food, sleeping arrangements, or protection have frequently surfaced in discussions about prison conditions. Director Anurag Kashyap throws light on these issues in his latest directorial, Bandar, without passing any judgment.

Samar Mehra (Bobby Deol) is a fading television actor in his fifties who is battling loneliness. He meets Gayatri Anand (Sapna Pabbi) through a dating app, and the two become intimate. While Samar wishes to move on after what he considers a one-night stand, an emotionally attached Gayatri continues to pursue him. He distances himself from her and starts interacting with another woman, Khushi (Saba Azad), whom he also meets through a dating app.

Feeling betrayed and antagonized, Gayatri files a case against Samar under Section 376 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, accusing him of rape. Samar is picked up by the local police, and when he is unable to meet their alleged demands, he is sent to jail as an undertrial. There, he is exposed to disturbing and dehumanizing conditions. What follows forms the core of the narrative.

Inspired by real-life incidents, the film presents its story with remarkable authenticity. The screenplay is tight, and the grim realities of prison life are portrayed in an unflinching manner. The events depicted feel so real that at times they may compel viewers to look away. The film is far more layered and mature than a conventional courtroom drama, and the attention to detail in its scenes is outstanding.

The music is impressive, with Come On Baby emerging as a standout track. Interestingly, the song’s lyrics are later used as evidence against Samar, adding another layer to the narrative.

Bobby Deol delivers a phenomenal performance that ranks among the finest of his career. He convincingly portrays panic, confusion, humiliation, despair, and emotional breakdown, making Samar’s ordeal deeply affecting. Sapna Pabbi looks stunning and delivers a powerful performance. Sanya Malhotra shines despite her limited screen time, while Saba Azad is equally effective in her role. Jeetendra Joshi and Nagesh Bhosale deliver impactful performances marked by authenticity and sincerity. The supporting cast also provides solid backing to the film.

Bandar is a hard-hitting and realistic film that sheds light on important social issues, including the alleged misuse of legal provisions and the inhuman treatment often meted out to undertrials within the prison system.

Rating: ***1/2