Film: Srikanth

Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Jyotika, Sharad Kelkar, Alaya F

Director: Tushar Hiranandani

Rating: 3.5 Moons

Visually impaired people are not meant to beg or put to disservice. A strong case for this is made in Tushar Hiranandani's directorial, Srikanth, based on the life of Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired industrialist who battled odds and stood strong on his feet with dedication and resilience. The biographical drama releases in theatres globally on Friday.

The biopic orbits around Srikanth Bolla (Rajkummar Rao). Born blind, his father tries to bury him alive with a heavy heart just to save the child from future struggles and humiliation. However, he's protected by his mother. Srikanth takes the audience through the genius lad's journey from a small village named Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh to winning several awards and accolades. On his journey to success, Srikanth meets his pillars of support in the form of his teacher, Devika (Jyotika), business partner Ravi (Sharad Kelkar) and lady love Swathi (Alaya F). 

Tushar's directorial doesn't deviate from the core purpose. It tells a biopic in a clean and neat way. Though it often resorts to following the typical biographical troupe, the film never gets dull in the storytelling. It binds you with the highs and lows of the narrative, offering a closer and darker look into Srikanth Bolla's life. Biopics are often accused of whitewashing a person's image. Srikanth refrains from being a glossy take. The character's ego, insecurities, jealousy and meaner side are reflected beautifully. 

Tushar who previously directed Shooter Dadi's biopic, Saand Ki Aankh, has cracked the right code to make a thoroughly entertaining film. Making a biopic palatable for regular family audience, he has added the correct amount of romance and drama. He empathises with his protagonist but never judges or attempts to project him as an extraordinary person. There are human traits to Srikanth and this brings the character alive on screen. 

Rajkummar Rao carries the role of Srikanth brilliantly. He brings out the innocence, confidence, heartbreak and arrogance of Srikanth Bolla with his earnest performance. Jyotika fits the role of his teacher perfectly. She is the epitome of grace, strength, and motherly energy. Sharad Kelkar owns the screen with his impactful act. His baritone adds further weight. Alaya F has a brief screen time. The actress does her best despite her limited role. 

Srikanth is the perfect family entertainer that shouldn't be missed over the weekend.