Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder (2025)

Udaipur, Rajasthan - The controversial film "Udaipur Files," based on the brutal 2022 murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal Sahu, was released on August 8, 2025, after a delayed schedule marked by legal challenges. The film, starring veteran actor Vijay Raaz in the lead role, has garnered a mixed response from both audiences and critics, with social media buzzing with sharply divided opinions.

Directed by Bharat S. Shrinate and produced by Amit Jani, "Udaipur Files" delves into the real-life incident that shook the nation. Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor in Udaipur, was brutally murdered in his shop by two men, allegedly in retaliation for a social media post supporting former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. The film aims to portray the events leading up to the murder and its aftermath.

Critical reviews for "Udaipur Files" have been polarized. On one hand, several netizens and social media users have lauded the film as "truthful and powerful," praising its unflinching depiction of the events. Many have commended the makers for bringing a sensitive and important story to the forefront.

On the other hand, a segment of film critics has been less favorable. A review in the Hindustan Times criticized the film for being "buried under fluff and questionable intent," suggesting that the narrative loses its focus. Another review from BollywoodShaadis acknowledged the film's "good intent" but lamented what it described as a "bad screenplay." The pacing of the film and its overall execution have also been points of contention among critics.

The plot of "Udaipur Files" stays close to the widely reported events of the Kanhaiya Lal murder case. The film reportedly explores the radicalization of the perpetrators and the societal impact of the gruesome act. Vijay Raaz's portrayal of Kanhaiya Lal has been a point of discussion, with many appreciating his nuanced performance. The supporting cast includes Mushtaq Khan, Meenakshi Chugh, and Ehsan Khan.

The film's release was not without its hurdles. It faced legal challenges and calls for a ban, with concerns raised about its potential to incite communal tensions. However, the filmmakers maintained that their intention was to present a factual account of the incident.

"Udaipur Files" has undoubtedly sparked a significant conversation. While its cinematic merits are being debated, its ability to provoke thought and discussion on a sensitive and contemporary issue is undeniable. Whether it will be remembered as a hard-hitting docu-drama or a sensationalized account of a tragedy remains to be seen and will likely depend on which side of the critical divide the viewer falls.