The movie "Bhakshak" delves into the chilling events surrounding the 2018 Muzaffarpur orphanage scandal in Bihar. Recently made available on Netflix, this Bollywood endeavor features Bhumi Pednekar and Sanjay Mishra in pivotal roles, offering viewers a stark portrayal of the tragic incidents that unfolded.
Muzaffarpur, once celebrated for its lychee harvests, now bears the stigma of the 'Muzaffarpur Shelter Case,' where 34 children and young women fell victim to sexual abuse, resulting in one tragic death. The perpetrators, including Brijesh Thakur and the district child protection officer, committed heinous acts over an extended period, shattering the lives of innocent victims.
Produced by Gauri Khan's Red Chillies, "Bhakshak" courageously confronts the predators involved in these appalling crimes. Vaishali Singh, essayed by Bhumi Pednekar, emerges as the film's central character—a Patna-based reporter driven by a relentless pursuit of truth and justice. Her investigation leads her to the Munwarpur shelter home (name changed), the site of these abhorrent atrocities.
The film meticulously traces Vaishali's arduous journey as she battles formidable challenges posed by powerful figures like Bansi Sahu, portrayed with sinister conviction by Aditya Srivastava. Sahu's ominous presence looms large, representing the systemic rot and entrenched corruption that perpetuate such atrocities.
"Bhakshak" unfolds with a raw and unflinching honesty, offering viewers a visceral insight into the pain and trauma endured by the victims. Despite its grim subject matter, the film does not shy away from confronting uncomfortable truths, making it a compelling and thought-provoking watch.
While the film's first half shocks viewers with its close-to-reality portrayal, the second half includes cinematic scenes that detract from the overall impact. Lead actors Bhumi Pednekar and Sanjay Mishra deliver tour de force performances, infusing their characters with depth and nuance. Pednekar's portrayal of Vaishali is particularly noteworthy, capturing the character's unwavering determination and moral fortitude. Mishra, on the other hand, brings a quiet yet powerful gravitas to his role as Bhaskar, Vaishali's elderly cameraman and confidante.
Through its impactful screenplay, "Bhakshak" serves as a powerful indictment of societal apathy and complicity. It lays bare the harsh realities of a society plagued by deep-rooted misogyny and systemic failures, urging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and take a stand against injustice.
The film's director, Pulkit, deserves commendation for his deft handling of the subject matter. His sensitive and nuanced approach ensures that "Bhakshak" never veers into sensationalism or exploitation, instead offering a respectful and dignified portrayal of the victims and their plight.
In conclusion, "Bhakshak" is a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience that demands to be seen and heard. It is a timely reminder of the urgent need to confront societal injustices and work towards creating a world where such atrocities are no longer tolerated. Through its searing honesty and compelling performances, "Bhakshak" leaves an indelible impression, urging viewers to stand up and be counted in the fight against injustice.
This story was originally written by R Saran and published on Vikatan.com. The following is the revised English version of the story.