Movie Review: The Tashkent Files - A Stirring Political Thriller

An Intriguing Mystery

The Tashkent Files tells the story of Lal Bahadur Shastri’s mysterious death in Tashkent and the efforts of a young journalist to uncover the truth behind this controversial political assassination. The movie starts off by introducing the journalist Raagini who gets assigned to investigate the allegations that Shastri’s death may not have been due to natural causes. This sets the stage for an intriguing mystery that keeps the audience engaged throughout the film.

Raagini’s Investigation Begins

Raagini starts collecting evidence and interviews key witnesses to piece together the events surrounding Shastri’s final days. She finds inconsistencies in the official report and suspicious circumstances that were overlooked. Records of Shastri’s medical tests and autopsy reports from the time raise serious doubts about the actual cause of death. Raagini’s investigation gains momentum as she uncovers more facts pointing to a well-crafted political conspiracy.

A Complex Web of Political Intrigue

As Raagini digs deeper, the plot thickens with revelations about the Soviet KGB’s extensive infiltration of key Indian institutions during the Cold War era. Multiple high-ranking Indian politicians and bureaucrats had ties to the KGB, fuelling speculations about their possible involvement in Shashtri’s demise. The movie also explores the geopolitical tensions of the time and India’s ambitions of becoming a nuclear power, presenting a complex web of political intrigue with international ramifications.

Compelling Performances and Characters

The movie features powerful performances by the star cast bringing the complex characters to life in a convincing manner. Mithun Chakraborty steals the show as the no-nonsense committee chairman overseeing Raagini’s investigation. Pankaj Tripathi delivers another standout role as the key witness with vital leads. Naseeruddin Shah also makes his presence felt in a pivotal supporting role. Shweta Basu Prasad is compelling as the determined journalist Raagini on a mission for the truth.

An Engrossing Political Thriller

Overall, The Tashkent Files succeeds in keeping the audience thoroughly engrossed from beginning to end with its intrigues, twists and revelations. Director Vivek Agnihotri presents a well-researched perspective on this controversial historical mystery in the form of a gripping political thriller. The movie leaves viewers with more questions about the unsolved mystery surrounding Shastri’s death and the murky underbelly of power politics. It serves as an eye-opening account for those unfamiliar with this lesser known chapter from India’s past.