Maharaj Movie Review: Aamir Khan’s Son Debuts in ‘Maharaj’, a Tale of 18th Century Intrigue
Movie Name: Maharaj
Release Date: 2024-06-21
Cast: Junaid Khan, Jaideep Ahlavat, Shalini Pandey, Sharvari
Director:Siddharth P Malhotra
Producer: Adihya Chopra
Music: Sohail Khan
Banner: YRR Entertainments
The story is set in the 18th century, with highlights including sets, photography, and background music. The content appears flawless.
‘Maharaj’ marks the debut of Junaid Khan, son of Aamir Khan. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, the film features Jaideep Ahlawat in a significant role.
Prior to its release, the film faced numerous challenges, with some people approaching the Gujarat court claiming that the content was offensive to Hindu sentiments.
Initially, the court issued a stay order but later permitted the release. Now, let’s see how this film fares on Netflix.
The story begins in 1832 in the village of ‘Vadal’ in Gujarat and continues until 1862 in ‘Bombay.’ Vaishnav couple Mulji Jeevaraj and his wife give birth to Karson (Junaid Khan).
He grows up observing the lifestyle and customs of the locals. When his mother dies at the age of ten, his father remarries, and he moves to Bombay with his uncle.
Karson grows up with progressive ideas, working as a journalist in a press. In his youth, he falls in love with Kishori (Shalini Pandey).
The area houses a Krishna temple, bustling with devotees from morning till night. Maharaj (Jaideep Ahlawat) runs the ashram, proclaiming himself as God’s representative, claiming his service improves lives.
Maharaj has an assistant named Khavas who manages all activities. During a spiritual event, Maharaj becomes infatuated with Kishori and manipulates her under the guise of ‘Charan Seva.’
Realizing this, Karson distances himself from her. Later, when Maharaj tries to ensnare his sister, Kishori understands Maharaj’s true nature.
Kishori realizes that Maharaj is a lustful man hiding behind a spiritual facade. She regrets not believing Karson’s warnings.
Meanwhile, another young woman, Leelavati, also falls victim to Maharaj. Her brother Shyam Ji seeks Karson’s help one night, but they disappear before he can assist. This leaves Karson deep in thought.
Karson discovers Kishori has died. He receives a letter from her urging him to expose Maharaj’s true nature to society. What will Karson do next? How will he expose Maharaj’s sins? What consequences will he face in this endeavor? What strategies will Maharaj employ to eliminate Karson? These questions form the rest of the story.
The film is based on a true event from the 18th century in Bombay, where some fake spiritual leaders sexually exploited women.
The hero fights against these atrocities under the guise of tradition and customs. The heroine’s sacrifice fuels the hero’s determination.
Since this is a true story, there are fewer entertaining elements, focusing more on emotions with touches of love and romance.
From start to finish, the film maintains a perfect content flow, with each character having a unique purpose and contributing to the natural progression of the story.
Set in the 18th century, recreating the era with its constructions, costumes, and props is challenging. Yet, the director successfully transports the audience to that period.
The sets and lighting play a crucial role. Sohail Khan’s background music and Rajeev Ravi’s cinematography are impressive, with effective editing by Shweta Venkat.
The dialogues suit the characters and situations, connecting well rather than seeming like mere translations. Especially, Maharaj’s Telugu voiceover fits perfectly.
There are no objectionable dialogues or scenes, making it a safe watch for families.
Also Read: Kurangu Pedal Movie Review (Amazon Prime)
