The Waking Of A Nation REVIEW: Taaruk Raina’s Zeal To Prove The British Conspiracy Behind Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Is Intriguing From Start To End

Film:
The Waking of a Nation

Directors: Ram Madhvani

Writers: Shantanu Srivastava and Shatrujeet Nath

Cast: Sahil Mehta, Man Singh Karamati, Ananyabrata Chakravorty, Raj Jadon, Taaruk Raina, Dev Raaz, Nikita Dutta, Carl Wharton, Paul McEwan, Bhawsheel Singh Sahni

Runtime: 6 episodes with 45- 60 mins each

Platform: SonyLIV

The Waking of a Nation REVIEW

The Waking of a Nation is a gripping historical drama series. It has garnered acclaim for its innovative take on the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. With a captivating narrative centred on the pursuit of truth, the series is set during the court trial of 1919’s Hunter Commission inquiry. The show features cast members like Taaruk Raina as Kantilal Sahni, Nikita Dutta as Poonam Aulak, Bhawsheel Singh Sahni playing the role of Harjeet Singh Aulak and Sahil Mehta as Allahbaksh.

Directed by Ram Madhvani, the series employs a style that prioritizes realism and emotional resonance. This has resulted in a thought-provoking examination of a crucial episode in India’s struggle for independence. The series has its distinctive approach to reimagining history through a courtroom drama lens, delving into themes of bravery and the relentless quest for justice against formidable obstacles.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

Does Kantilal have a secret? What are the undercurrents between him and Allahbaksh? Will Sahni be able to unravel who was behind this massacre? Will he be able to prove that the incident was a British Conspiracy? To know all the answers to these questions, you will have to watch The Waking of a Nation; and here’s our review of it.

What Works

The series boasts an impressive cast, including Taaruk Raina, Nikita Dutta, Sahil Mehta, and Bhawsheel Singh Sahni. These talented actors immerse themselves fully into their roles, embodying period-specific looks, dialects, and behaviours. All these aspects created a truly engaging experience that transports the audience back to early 20th-century India. Appreciate the reality being shown of how our ancestors fought back.

What Doesn’t Work

As a viewer, too many flashbacks to what might have happened may be interesting. However, there is a high chance that one might forget what they were captivated towards. Dialogues were no doubt powerful and left an impact, but repetitive usage will make you question if the actor was exaggerating. Certain scenes of the series were very slow, requiring the makers to focus on impact and quality content.

Technical Analysis

Story

The story begins when Kantilal Sahni (Taaruk Raina) returns from London after becoming an Advocate. He goes to meet his childhood friends Harjeet (Bhawsheel Singh Sahni) and Allahbaksh (Sahil Mehta). The British government imposed the Rowlatt Act of 1919 and Section 144 causing natives to turn rebellious. On 13th April 1919, the unfortunate Jallianwala Bagh Massacre takes place where more than 400 Indians are killed. This is when Kantilal Sahni vows to take a stand for his people.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

Direction

One of the standout features of The Waking of a Nation is Ram Madhvani’s 360-degree filming technique. He is known for capturing authentic performances and heightening the realism of each scene. Be it intense courtroom exchanges or emotionally charged confrontations, this style makes every moment feel visceral and deeply engaging.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

Meticulous attention to detail shines through in the show’s production design, which includes authentic period costumes and intricately crafted sets. The props, locations, and visual elements are carefully curated, effectively recreating the historical atmosphere of early 20th-century India, making it a visually striking historical drama. While the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is well-known, this series delves deeper, unveiling the complex conspiracies and events that led to the tragedy. By illuminating less recognized aspects of this historical episode, it offers viewers a richer and more nuanced perspective on the past.

Star Cast

The review of The Waking of a Nation would be incomplete if the performances of the lead actors were not mentioned. Taaruk Raina proves himself to be the right fit for the character. He serves justice in his role as an advocate who fights racism and unravels a major truth. Nikita Dutta shines as Poonam Aulak. Despite all the difficulties in her life, Nikita sets the bar high for this role. The other supporting cast also fulfilled the characters with finesse.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

Conclusion

Overall, The Waking of a Nation is a gripping crime thriller exploring investigative journalism’s complex and high-stakes world. With a talented cast, an engaging narrative, and a thought-provoking exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, this series is sure to captivate fans of the genre. At its heart, the series is a legal drama that explores the Hunter Commission’s investigation into the massacre.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

Building suspense with each revelation, the series keeps viewers riveted as the truth gradually unfolds. Anticipate high-stakes courtroom confrontations, hidden conspiracies, and astonishing discoveries as it navigates one of history’s most contentious trials. Focusing on the Hunter Commission, the inquiry body established to investigate the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the series follows Kantilal Sahni’s relentless pursuit to uncover the true forces behind General Reginald Dyer’s orders.

We hope our review of The Waking of a Nation will help you decide if you should watch it.

Watch the trailer of The Waking Of A Nation here:

Also Read: Crime Beat REVIEW: Saqib Saleem, Saba Azad & Sai Tamhankar led investigative crime thriller exposes truths, lies & betrayals with finish

Akankshya Mukherjee

Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.