Emergency (2025)

Zee Studios’ Emergency is a compelling political drama that takes viewers through one of India’s most controversial periods—the 21-month Emergency declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. Directed, written, and headlined by Kangana Ranaut, the film offers an intense depiction of the political turmoil, personal sacrifices, and societal upheaval during this time.

The Story

The film explores the events leading up to the declaration of Emergency, the authoritarian rule under Indira Gandhi, and the aftermath that shaped India’s democratic narrative. Kangana Ranaut crafts a screenplay based on historical events but takes creative liberties for cinematic impact. While ambitious in its scope, the narrative sometimes feels rushed, attempting to cover a multitude of incidents within its 150-minute runtime.

That said, Emergency shines in its portrayal of the Emergency’s impact on the nation, with scenes depicting press censorship, mass arrests, forced sterilizations, and civil disobedience movements. The climactic moments, however, don’t quite deliver the emotional punch that the buildup promises.

Performances

Kangana Ranaut delivers an electrifying performance as Indira Gandhi, capturing her steely resolve, charisma, and vulnerability. This is easily one of the finest performances of her career. Her attention to detail, from her body language to her expressions, makes her portrayal unforgettable.

The ensemble cast also excels:

• Anupam Kher as Jayaprakash Narayan brings gravitas to the role of the opposition leader.
• Shreyas Talpade as a young Atal Bihari Vajpayee makes a strong impression.
• Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw adds a layer of stoic charm.
• Vishak Nair delivers a nuanced performance as Sanjay Gandhi, portraying both ambition and impulsiveness.
• Mahima Chaudhry as Pupul Jayakar and Satish Kaushik as Jagjivan Ram are equally remarkable.

Each supporting actor is well-cast, lending authenticity to their respective characters.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Kangana Ranaut’s direction is bold and assured. She crafts a gripping narrative while tackling a politically sensitive subject. The film’s production design (Wasiq Khan and Rakesh Yadav) is top-notch, recreating the 1970s with meticulous detail.

The cinematography by Tetsuo Nagata captures both the grandeur of political power and the grit of grassroots movements. The background score by Sanchit and Ankit Balhara enhances the drama, while the action sequences, choreographed by Nick Powell and Sunil Rodrigues, are impactful.

The film’s prosthetic work (David Malinowski) deserves special mention for transforming Kangana and others into their historical counterparts.

Box Office and Reception

Despite its critical acclaim and Kangana Ranaut’s powerhouse performance, Emergency has seen a mixed response at the box office. The film appeals more to niche audiences familiar with the history of the 1970s rather than the masses. Its opening weekend collections were modest, though strong word-of-mouth is expected to boost viewership in the coming weeks.

Controversies

The release of Emergency was not without challenges. The film faced backlash from Sikh organizations, who alleged historical inaccuracies and misrepresentation of their community. Kangana Ranaut addressed these controversies, asserting that her intent was to present a balanced narrative rather than a biased one.

Final Thoughts

Emergency is a bold and ambitious political drama anchored by Kangana Ranaut’s stellar performance. While it may not cater to mainstream tastes, it is a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts and history buffs. The film’s ability to stir conversations about one of India’s darkest chapters makes it a significant contribution to Indian cinema.