Review : Vedaa: A Riveting Tale of Drama, Thrills, and Explosive Action!

Even after 78 years of independence, India remains shackled by the chains of caste division. The oppression of Dalits in the country’s rural heartlands is a stark reality, a wound that continues to fester despite the promises of progress. Against this backdrop, #JohnAbraham’s Vedaa confronts the grim plight of Dalits, exposing the manipulation and abuse they endure at the hands of the so-called upper caste. Director Nikhil Advani sets out to spotlight this pressing issue, but the message occasionally drowns in a sea of violence that overshadows the film’s social commentary.

Major Abhimanyu Kanwar (John Abraham) is a soldier on a mission in Pakistan, defying orders to take down a most-wanted terrorist. His insubordination earns him a court-martial, and he retreats to a remote village in Rajasthan, the homeland of his late wife, Raashi (Tamannah Bhatia), who was brutally murdered by terrorists. There, his father-in-law secures him a position as an assistant boxing coach. In this male-dominated society, a determined young law student, Vedaa Bairwa (Sharvari), dreams of pursuing boxing, despite the fierce opposition from the male members of the academy. Abhimanyu becomes her secret mentor, teaching her the art of boxing. But their lives are thrown into chaos when Vedaa’s brother is caught in a forbidden romance with a girl from the upper caste, triggering a wave of honour killings. As Vedaa flees for her life, Abhimanyu joins her in the fight for Dalit rights, setting the stage for a gripping battle against oppression.

The plight of Dalits is a burning issue, one that resonates deeply with those from the smaller villages and towns where these atrocities often occur. Nikhil Advani had a potent narrative at his disposal, but the story’s impact is somewhat diluted by the relentless violence. The screenplay, while predictable, is well-paced, though the film could have benefitted from tighter editing to heighten its impact. The climax, pivotal as it is, arrives too late, losing some of its intended punch. Technically, the film impresses, with solid production values and a compelling score. The first half brims with promise, yet the momentum wanes as the film drags in the second half.

John Abraham, in his element, delivers powerful action sequences, justifying the film’s intricate choreography. His performance, marked by minimal dialogue, is both stoic and impactful. Sharvari shines brilliantly, bringing depth and nuance to her character, her portrayal marked by a sensitivity that underscores her talent. Her action scenes are equally convincing. Abhishek Banerjee excels as the menacing antagonist, while the supporting cast provides strong performances that bolster the narrative.

Vedaa is a film worth watching, especially for John Abraham’s muscular action and Sharvari’s outstanding performance, making it a compelling experience that resonates with both drama and intensity.