Lucknow Central (2017)

Lucknow Central is a compelling Bollywood crime drama released in 2017, directed by Ranjit Tiwari and produced by Nikkhil Advani and Monisha Advani under Emmay Entertainment. The film is written by Aseem Arora and Ranjit Tiwari, who together craft a unique narrative blending elements of crime, drama, and music that resonate with audiences deeply.

The story revolves around the protagonist, Kishen Mohan Girhotra, played by the versatile Farhan Akhtar, who portrays a man unjustly accused and convicted for a crime he did not commit. Kishen is sentenced to jail and finds himself in Lucknow Central Jail, where he encounters a variety of characters, each with their own backstories and motivations. The narrative is driven by Kishen's dream to form a music band inside prison to participate and hopefully win a national music competition called 'Folk of India'. This desire is his beacon of hope amidst the grim realities of prison life.

The film goes beyond a typical prison drama by weaving in themes of redemption, hope, and the transformative power of music. The ensemble cast includes Ronit Roy as Rajesh, the strict yet empathetic jail superintendent; Deepak Dobriyal playing the role of Papa Babu, a veteran inmate; Gippy Grewal portraying Omkar Singh, a fellow inmate with an effervescent personality; and Inaamulhaq who plays Randhir, contributing to the colorful and diverse prison community. Rajesh Sharma also features in a notable role adding depth to the narrative.

Ranjit Tiwari’s directorial finesse is evident in how he balances the tension of prison life with moments of warmth, humor, and camaraderie among the inmates, especially through music. Farhan Akhtar, known for his versatility in Bollywood both as an actor and filmmaker, delivers a nuanced and heartfelt performance, capturing the anguish and hope within his character. The chemistry among the inmates forms the emotional core of the film.

One of the most evocative elements of Lucknow Central is its vibrant music, which plays a critical role in the narrative. The soundtrack is composed by Arjuna Harjai, with lyrics penned by Siddharth–Garima, Shree D, and Anurag Bhomia. The songs beautifully encapsulate the folk traditions of India, especially from the region of Lucknow, while also carrying the emotional weight of the characters’ journeys.

Some notable tracks include "Kaavaan Kaavaan" sung by Neeti Mohan, which showcases the folk essence with a soulful melody; "Teen Kabootar" performed by Shalmali Kholgade, a lively number capturing the spirit of resilience; and "Lucknow Central" featuring vocals by Divya Kumar, which is an upbeat and catchy song reflecting the band's aspirations. Each song interlaces seamlessly with the story, enhancing the emotional narrative rather than serving as mere musical interludes.

The film offers not just entertainment but also an insightful look into the prison system in India, the struggles of incarcerated people, and their hope for a better future. It explores themes of justice, friendship, and the power of optimism through adversity. The cinematic portrayal of the band’s formation and their rehearsals inside the prison walls is inspiring and showcases the unifying power of music in the face of hardship.

Lucknow Central also prompted audiences to reflect on social issues related to wrongful convictions and the quest for dignity even in the harshest conditions. Farhan Akhtar’s dedication to the role was evident as he underwent rigorous preparation to authentically represent a man whose life is trapped behind bars, yet whose soul remains unshackled through music.

The cinematography by Arvind Kannabiran captures the contrasting moods of prison life – the starkness and severity, as well as moments of warmth during group rehearsals and the final competition sequences. The film’s editing by Manan Mehta ensures a tight narrative flow, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.

Overall, Lucknow Central stands out as a meaningful and entertaining film in Bollywood's landscape of musical crime dramas. It highlights the strength of human spirit against all odds and shows how art—in this case, music—can be a powerful tool for transformation and hope.

For anyone interested in a movie that combines gripping drama, heartfelt performances, and stirring music within a unique prison backdrop, Lucknow Central is a must-watch. Its blend of emotions, social commentary, and foot-tapping folk tunes makes it a memorable cinematic experience.

Subscribe to our mailing list to receive updates for latest hindi movies. Stay Connected!