Film: Ram Setu

Cast: Akshay Kumar, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nushrratt Bharucha

Director: Abhishek Sharma 

Rating: 3.5 Moons

The existence of Ram Setu, a bridge built by Lord Ram to rescue Sita from the custody of Ravan, has been a major debate. While beliefs and scientific studies have clashed multiple times, several questions remained unanswered. Based on the ever-discussed Ram Setu, Akshay Kumar tells a story of myth vs. facts in Abhishek Sharma’s Ram Setu.

The film, released today, orbits around an atheist archaeologist Aryan Kulshrestha (Akshay Kumar). Due to his anti-Hindu and anti-Ram beliefs, Aryan lands into a major controversy, forcing the Archaeological Society of India to suspend him. Despite his suspension, he is tasked with the responsibility of proving that Ram Setu is a natural creation and not man-made. All of this to successfully complete a shipping project – Sethusamudram. During an underwater expedition, Aryan finds a rock which apparently is a part of Ram Setu. The entire film from this point revolves around protecting the rock and proving the origin of the bridge. He is in a race against time as the court is about to give its verdict on its demolition.  

Ram Setu is a unique idea on paper. While executing it, there are some unmissable flaws. The film will serve to be a delightful watch for those who are keenly interested in knowing about Ram Setu and its origin and existence. If one doesn't have an idea about the debate around the bridge which is also called Adam's Bridge, then it is advised to read up a little. Ram Setu’s plus point is the spectacular visuals. Exotic locations make it a big-screen experience. What must be appreciated in Ram Setu is how Ram and Ramayan characters have been woven beautifully and seamlessly. The background music, including the use of Hanuman Chalisa, lends an extra edge. The use of chants in the background comes to the film's advantage and gives an authentic flavour to the narrative. 

Speaking of the flaws, the purpose behind making Ram Setu isn't crystal clear. Whether director Abhishek Sharma and his team of writers want to make a film on archaeology, mythology, digging out details of Ram Setu, or simply good vs. bad, there's no set answer to this. The expedition sequences, though visually breathtaking, lack depth and keep the curiosity of the audience hanging midway. Though the climax comes across as a major respite, the poor visual effects dampen the film. 

Apart from Akshay Kumar, Jacqueline Fernandez and Nushrratt Bharuccha star in Ram Setu. Sadly, the latter leaves behind the bare minimum impact. The former still gets a better character to play. Akshay lifts a weak story with his convincing performance. That's probably why Ram Setu could be on your watch list.

PeepingMoon gives Ram Setu 3.5 Moons