Review : Accident or Conspiracy: Godhra: A Riveting Exposé!

In 2002, the state of Gujarat was scarred by the unforgettable Godhra train burning incident. This horrific event ignited communal riots that engulfed the state, leaving a lasting imprint on its collective memory. Political battles have since been waged with this tragedy at their core. Now, the gripping film “#AccidentorConspiracyGodhra” seeks to unravel the myriad questions that linger in the minds of Indians. This bold venture aims to reveal the unvarnished truth, even at the risk of courting controversy from certain quarters. Grounded in the findings of the #NanavatiShahMehtaCommission, the film’s narrative is both compelling and courageous.

Mr. Deshpande (Hitu Kanodia), is a railway master at Godhra station. His wife Devki (Denisha Ghumra) embarks on a pilgrimage to Ayodhya with their son and neighbors. As they journey back, the ill-fated train’s S6 and S7 carriages, filled with KarSevaks, come under attack by a mob exceeding 1,000 people. The carriages are set ablaze, resulting in the horrific death of 59 individuals. This atrocity, perpetrated by a single community, sparks widespread riots across Gujarat. To ascertain whether the Godhra train burning was a tragic accident or a sinister conspiracy, the government commissions an inquiry led by Nanavati Shah Mehta. The film deftly navigates between the commission’s investigation and the harrowing events before and after the train inferno, offering a powerful and poignant cinematic experience.

Through an in-depth exploration of the commission’s investigation, the film endeavors to uncover the underlying realities and mindsets driving the violence. Its goal is to highlight the anguish and loss experienced by the 59 victims of the incident, a tragedy that has mostly stayed obscured from public awareness.

Director M.K. Shivaaksh masterfully navigates the complexities of the narrative, presenting an unbiased portrayal of the events. He skillfully interweaves the commission’s proceedings with the dramatic recounting of the train burning incident, ensuring the narrative remains dynamic and engaging. The music elevates the drama, perfectly complementing the intense situations. The editor deserves commendation for thoughtfully crafting the film, seamlessly transitioning between scenes to maintain a steady rhythm. Ranveer Shorey and Manoj Joshi deliver standout performances as opposing lawyers, imbuing their roles with authenticity and gravitas that enhance the on-screen proceedings. Hitu Kanodia is commendable, though his performance occasionally borders on the theatrical. Despite her limited screen time, Denisha Ghumra leaves a lasting impression. The supporting cast also contributes effectively, adding depth to the film.

Rating : ***1/2

By Keerti Kadam