Sikander

Sikander is a riveting Punjabi political drama film released in 2013, directed by Jatinder Mauhar. This riveting socio-political film showcases the grim reality of student politics in Punjab. Featuring an ensemble cast, including Raj Singh Jhinjar in the title role alongside Gul Panag, Manav Vij, Kartar Cheema, and Victor John, the movie strays away from the typical Punjabi film's cliche metanarrative and, instead, offers a different perspective on contemporary Punjab.

Sikander opens with an unexpected turn of events when a boy is found dead on a college campus in a small town in Punjab. The central character, Sikander, portrayed by Raj Singh Jhinjar, arrives at this story's beginning as an orphan and has been adopted by the local gurudwara in Moga, a town in Punjab. A former college president and an athletics champ, Sikander stands out as an honest and robust figure in the college and the town.

Gul Panag plays the role of Beant Kaur, the college lecturer and also a concerned citizen who plays an essential part in the pivotal plot twist. Her character stands firm against the tyranny that youngsters are facing in the name of politics. Her strong character and remarkable performance add a potent flavor to the entire narrative. Panag’s character is symbolic of the voice of reason and conscience that generally gets silenced or overlooked amid violence and political power play.

Manav Vij, on the other side, fits perfectly well in his villain avatar of a local criminal and political heavyweight, Jattan. His character illustrates the dominance of crime and corruption in politics. He symbolizes unlawful elements as gritty and cruel, adding a chilling touch to the narrative.

The film’s plot, layered with political power play and unsettling reality of student politics, brings a fascinating twist to a seemingly peaceful town. A sense of underlying tension is cleverly maintained throughout the narrative, thanks to intense performances, engaging storyline, and skillful direction. As the young college student takes on the daunting task of tackling the roots of corruption, the audience is transported to a thrilling journey filled with unexpected turns and heart-wrenching revelations.

Despite the tangible darkness of themes in the movie, it successfully manages to blend in romance and subtle comedy, making it an entertaining yet provocative watch. The love subplot between Sikander and Beant, who share a deep affection for each other, adds a softer touch to an otherwise heavy narrative.

The engaging screenplay of Sikander combined with the fine performances of the actors brings the story to life, reaching an auditory that craves for a fresh narrative perspective in Punjabi cinema. The film's raw depiction captures the subtle nuances of the characters efficiently, making them relatable and real for the viewers.

The music, composed by Gurmeet Singh and featuring tracks from various Punjabi singers, complements the film's theme beautifully. It successfully enhances the mood of various scenes, whether it's a lighthearted moment, an intense rivalry, or a heartbreaking situation.

Sikander steers away from the prevalent trend of comedy-centric films in the Punjabi film industry to deliver a compelling tale touching grave issues of politics, corruption, and youth's idealism. It stands out for its daring to weave a narrative that not only entertains but also shakes the consciousness, provokes thought, and incites a dialogue.

Despite being a Punjabi regional film, Sikander transcends linguistic boundaries due to its universal theme and profound narrative. Its critical handling of intricate layers of power, politics, corruption, and youth idealism connects with a worldwide audience, making it an essential watch for those who appreciate meaningful cinema.

In conclusion, Sikander is a compelling view into the world of student politics, the power play, and the struggle for justice against the rampant corruption in the system. With its brilliant performances, an impressive storyline, and evocative music, Sikander is a cinematic triumph that leaves a lingering impact on its audience.