Review : Baramulla : A Mix of Paranormal Mystery and Political Undercurrents!

Films set in Kashmir often stir conversations and are instantly viewed through a communal lens. Director #AdityaSuhasJambhale, who earlier explored the socio-political ramifications of the abrogation of Article 370 in Article 370, now returns with Baramulla, a supernatural-political thriller that uses Kashmir’s volatile landscape as its backdrop while delving into the eerie and the unknown.

Streaming now on Netflix, Baramulla unfolds in the tense, haunting beauty of the valley. The story follows DSP Ridwaan Sayyed (#ManavKaul), newly appointed to the Baramulla district, who moves into his official residence with his wife (#BhashaSumbli) and their two children. Soon, he finds himself investigating a series of mysterious child disappearances — including that of an MLA’s 13-year-old son who vanishes during a magic show, and another boy who disappears from the middle of a lake. As Ridwaan digs deeper into the disturbing case, his own family begins to experience strange occurrences within their new home suggesting a supernatural link to the unfolding mystery.

The narrative moves along two parallel tracks, one capturing the rising tension in the valley, the other exploring the unsettling events within Ridwaan’s haunted house. The director maintains a tight focus on the missing children while steadily weaving together elements of terrorism, fear, and the supernatural into a gripping and emotionally layered climax. Technically, the film is deftly handled, the background score enhances the suspense without overpowering it, while the cinematography captures both the breathtaking serenity and the creeping dread of Kashmir. The VFX are subtle and believable, wisely avoiding overt depictions of ghosts and the editing is crisp. The interplay between past and present events is executed with finesse.

Manav Kaul delivers a standout performance, embodying the turmoil and vulnerability of a father torn between duty and family. Bhasha Sumbli is quietly compelling as his supportive yet anxious wife, while Arista Mehta as Noorie adds authenticity to the family dynamic.

Baramulla skillfully blends elements of paranormal mystery with political subtext, resulting in an atmospheric, tightly woven thriller that both chills and engages in equal measure.

***

Keerti Kadam