New Delhi: RAW, which stands for Research and Analysis Wing, is India’s premier intelligence agency. Over the years, numerous films have been made inspired by RAW, spanning Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, and even Bhojpuri Lollywood. These movies depict larger-than-life spies, with Salman Khan as a fearless Tiger carrying out daring missions in foreign lands, Shahrukh Khan adopting the persona of a Pathan to represent various nations, and Hrithik Roshan’s portrayal as the intrepid Kabir.
The list goes on with Katrina as Zoya, Deepika as Rabia, and now Alia joining the ranks of these cinematic agents. The spy genre has become a thriving cinematic universe, raking in substantial box office revenue. However, it’s important to clarify that these stories are entirely fictional and have no basis in reality.
Firearms and bloodshed not part of standard procedures
In reality, RAW operates covertly, with its agents being virtually unrecognizable even when in plain sight. Firearms and bloodshed are not part of their standard procedures. The glamorized concepts in these films draw inspiration from Hollywood franchises like James Bond and Mission: Impossible, but they are far removed from the actual operations of RAW.
One exception to the trend of sensationalized portrayals is director Vishal Bhardwaj’s film “Khufiya,” available on Netflix. This film presents a more realistic depiction of RAW’s operations and operatives, drawing inspiration from the fictional book “ESCAPE TO NOWHERE” by Amar Bhushan, a former Special Secretary of the Cabinet Secretariat. The story is rooted in a major breach by the American CIA within RAW following the Kargil War, specifically the disappearance of a double agent despite continuous surveillance in 2004.
Khufiya Movie Review: What is the plot?
In “Khufiya,” Krishna Mehra, a RAW officer stationed as a diplomat in Bangladesh, monitors ISI activities through her diplomatic role. When one of her intelligence informers is killed due to a leak from within RAW, suspicion falls on Ravi Mohan, who appears to work for RAW but is actually passing classified information to the CIA. Krishna, leading the investigation, tracks Ravi’s movements in an attempt to apprehend both him and his handler. However, events take an unexpected turn when Ravi and his entire family vanish, leaving behind his wife, Charu. RAW officials then train Charu to reach Ravi. The film delves into the intricacies of this intelligence operation.
Khufiya Movie Review
“Khufiya” brings back the magic of Vishal Bhardwaj’s storytelling, showcasing a multi-layered plot with well-developed characters and their complex relationships. Tabu, playing Krishna Mehra, delivers a remarkable performance, conveying a range of emotions, including her personal struggles, romantic involvement with an informer, guilt, detachment from her children, and the aftermath of a failed marriage. Vika Gabbi’s portrayal of Charu is equally impressive, capturing the nuances of a betrayed wife’s emotional journey. Ali Fazal, as Ravi, showcases his acting prowess, leaving one wondering why he hasn’t been utilized more by Indian directors. The film’s cast is impeccable, and their performances are top-notch.
“Khufiya” stands out among recent Netflix releases with its compelling storyline and engaging cinematic experience.
