As Meghna Gulzar's Daayra arrives in cinemas on September 18, the movie is being linked to the 2019 Hyderabad veterinary doctor rape-murder case. However, the filmmaker has clarified that the film is NOT based on that particular case. Here's what she said and what the real story is:
Daayra NOT Based On 2019 Hyderabad Case
Meghna Gulzar has said that Daayra does not narrate any one real-life incident. Instead, the story takes inspiration from several cases reported across India.
The filmmaker has also described the film as 'region neutral'. According to her, its characters, setting and events are not tied to any specific state or police force.
"Daayra is not based in a particular city, which is from South India or North India; it’s completely region neutral," she said.
Meghna explained that different parts of the story, including the crime, public response and police investigation, have been influenced by multiple real incidents.
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2019 Hyderabad Doctor Rape-Murder Case Real Story
The 2019 case involved a 26-year-old veterinary doctor who was abducted, sexually assaulted and murdered near Hyderabad in November that year.
Mohammed Arif, Jollu Shiva, Jollu Naveen and Chintakunta Chennakeshavulu were arrested in connection with the crime.
On December 6, the accused were taken to Chatanpally, where police said they were being taken to recreate the crime scene. Police later claimed that these men attacked officers, tried to escape and took weapons. All four were subsequently shot dead by the police.
The incident led to a nationwide debate over police encounters and instant justice.
Why Is Daayra Being Linked To The Hyderabad Case?
Despite Meghna Gulzar's clarification, the comparison has emerged because Daayra also deals with questions surrounding crime, justice and the police response.
Prithviraj Sukumaran plays Raman Kumar, who appears to follow a more aggressive approach to justice. Kareena Kapoor Khan plays Ajooni Kohli, whose character questions the system and society’s response to crimes against women.
The two stories are not officially connected. However, their shared themes of crime, investigation, justice and society’s reaction explain why viewers have drawn comparisons.
About Daayra
Daayra deals with crime, punishment, justice and the divided reactions that can follow a serious crime. The film marks Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran’s first on-screen collaboration.
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Produced by Junglee Pictures and Pen Studios, Daayra releases in cinemas on September 18.
FAQ
1. What are some of the movies of Meghna Gulzar?
Sam Bahadur (2023), Chhapaak (2020), and Raazi (2018), among others, are some of her critically acclaimed movies.
2. Meghna Gulzar won a National Award for which movie?
Meghna Gulzar won a National Film Award for her biographical war drama film Sam Bahadur, starring Vicky Kaushal.