Following his impressive performance in the noteworthy Indian film “12th Fail” (2023), actor Vikrant Massey is now embarking on another cinematic endeavor that promises to stir the public consciousness. Together with esteemed producer Ektaa R Kapoor, Massey is set to star in a gripping political thriller titled “The Sabarmati Report,” which is poised to explore the harrowing incident of the burning of the Sabarmati Express in 2002, an event that subsequently unleashed one of the worst communal riots in Gujarat’s history.
The “12th Fail” star, widely acclaimed for his compelling rendition in the 2023 sleeper hit directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, has proven his mettle in portraying complex characters that resonate with audiences. With “The Sabarmati Report,” Massey seeks to sustain the momentum of his successful streak, tackling a role that requires the dedication and sensitivity he is known for. The story revolves around two journalists who commit themselves to unraveling the mystery behind the tragic fire aboard the Sabarmati Express. Massey is flanked by a noteworthy cast including Raashii Khanna as his fellow investigative reporter and Ridhi Dogra, recognized for her recent role in “Jawan” (2023), who is cast in a formidable, antagonistic part.
The Sabarmati Express tragedy dates back to February 27, 2002, when 59 Hindu pilgrims perished in a conflagration as they traveled from Ayodhya in the train’s carriages near the Godhra railway station. The horrific episode not only snuffed out innocent lives but also laid the groundwork for an eruption of communal violence. Nevertheless, sources affiliated with “The Sabarmati Report” assert that while the film’s premise is rooted in this tragedy, the creators have consciously refrained from delving into the sectarian bloodshed that ensued. Commanding the directorial reins is Ranjan Chandel, previously credited with the lauded “Grahan” (2021), who endeavors to approach the topic with the highest level of tact and consideration.
When presented with the initial pitch by co-producer Amul Mohan and screenwriter Aseem Arora, producer Ektaa R Kapoor was reportedly moved to such an extent that she deemed it one of the most outstanding political thrillers presented to her in recent memory. Arora’s narrative, though fictional, takes place over an extended timeline from 2002 to 2012, drawing inspiration from actual events and striving to present a thought-provoking reflection on the incident.
To achieve a vividly authentic recreation of the events encapsulated in the film, director Chandel orchestrated a comprehensive shooting schedule that commenced in Ahmedabad on December 17 of the previous year. Shaping the project with a meticulous start-to-finish timeline, filming was designed to proceed over 36 days. Currently, the production has transported its setting to the vicinity of Madh Island, where art director Rajat Poddarr spearheaded the development of realistic train replicas and a precise reimagining of the Godhra Railway Station. In this carefully constructed environment, Chandel works alongside Director of Photography Amlendu Choudhury to bring to life every detail of the original incident while respecting the sensitivity that the subject matter commands.
In anticipation of its release, “The Sabarmati Report” has already begun generating a wave of interest among cinema enthusiasts and historians alike. Not merely because of the star-studded cast or the production’s eminent attention to detail, but also due to the critical relevance of the film’s underlying message and its close examination of a pivotal moment in India’s modern history. As Vikrant Massey ventures into this investigative role, audiences are poised to witness a portrayal that seeks not only to entertain but to enlighten, shedding light on the intricacies of a case that has left an indelible mark on the nation.
