Bollywood’s latest release, Azaad, premiered on January 17, 2025, marking the much-anticipated debut of Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani. Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, the film promised an epic historical drama with a deep emotional core. But did it deliver on expectations? Let’s break it down.
Plot Overview of Azaad!
Set in British-ruled India, Azaad follows the journey of Govind (Aaman Devgan), a young stable boy who shares an unbreakable bond with a majestic black stallion named Azaad. As India’s struggle for independence unfolds, their relationship becomes symbolic of the nation’s fight for freedom.
Performances: Did Aman Devgan Shine?
-Aaman Devgan as Govind
Being the nephew of Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn, Aaman had immense pressure to impress. While his performance showcased sincerity and raw emotion, some critics felt his debut lacked the intensity needed for a film of this scale. However, his screen presence hints at potential for future projects.
-Rasha Thadani as Radha
Daughter of Raveena Tandon, Rasha brings charm to her role, but her character feels underdeveloped. She had moments of brilliance, but the screenplay didn’t give her enough space to shine.
-Ajay Devgn and Diana Penty in Supporting Roles
Ajay Devgn’s presence lent weight to the film, while Diana Penty delivered a composed performance. Their seasoned acting added depth to the narrative.
Direction and Screenplay: A Mixed Bag
Abhishek Kapoor’s direction attempted to craft an epic story, but pacing issues and a somewhat predictable narrative held the film back. While the emotional moments between Govind and Azaad were touching, the film struggled with consistency.
Cinematography and Visuals
Visually, Azaad is stunning. The period setting, elaborate costumes, and breathtaking landscapes transport the audience back in time. The cinematography, particularly the scenes featuring Azaad the stallion, is a visual treat.
Critical Reception: Mixed Reactions
- The Times of India: “While Azaad has moments of grandeur, it is overshadowed by a weak narrative and pacing issues.”
- NDTV: “The film’s disjointed screenplay hampers the performances of the debutants.”
- Hindustan Times: “Despite its strong visual appeal, Azaad is slow and predictable, failing to leave a lasting impact.”
Audience Response: Divided Opinions
Social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit saw a mixed response. While some viewers appreciated the emotional depth and visuals, others felt the story was clichéd and lacked novelty.
Box Office Performance of Azaad
Despite the hype, Azaad opened to a moderate ₹1.4 crore on its first day and grossed around ₹9.09-10 crore worldwide, falling short of industry expectations.
Is Azaad Worth Watching?
Azaad is a film with noble intentions, aiming to intertwine personal bonds with the broader theme of freedom. While it introduces promising talents like Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani, the execution leaves much to be desired. Whether Aaman Devgan emerges as Bollywood’s next big star remains to be seen, but his journey has certainly begun.
Azaad FAQs
For a visual glimpse into Azaad watch the official trailer here: Azaad Official Trailer