The much-awaited film Udaipur Files, starring Vijay Raaz, has finally reached cinemas across India after months of delays. The movie was released in more than 4,500 theatres nationwide on Friday following approval from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
The film is based on the shocking murder of Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal, who was killed on June 28, 2022. The incident took place after he allegedly shared a social media post in support of BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. Her earlier remarks on Prophet Muhammad had sparked a nationwide controversy in 2022, leading to heated debates, protests, and violence in some areas.
A Story Rooted in a Real-Life Tragedy
The murder of Kanhaiya Lal shook the entire country. Two assailants brutally attacked him in his shop, and later, a video of the killing went viral online. The attackers claimed the act was in retaliation for the social media post.
Udaipur Files brings this tragic event to the big screen, aiming to show the details of the conspiracy behind the murder. According to Kanhaiya Lal’s son, Yash Sahu, the film closely follows the events documented in the National Investigation Agency (NIA) charge sheet.
“This movie shows exactly what happened to my father,” Yash said during the film’s release. “It also gives a message to the people that incidents like this must come to light so the country is aware. We are still fighting for justice, and I hope this movie will make more people stand with us.”
Family Still Awaits Justice
Three years have passed since the killing, but the family says justice has not yet been served. The accused remain in jail, and the trial is still ongoing.
“I have attended many court hearings, but there has been no punishment for the killers so far,” Yash said. “We want the culprits to get the death penalty as soon as possible. Our fight will continue until that happens.”
Kanhaiya Lal’s wife, Jasoda Sahu, also spoke about the emotional weight of the film. She revealed that when the movie’s release was stopped earlier, she personally wrote to the Prime Minister to seek approval.
“This film shows the pain and struggle our family has gone through,” Jasoda said. “The country needs to see what happened, so such tragedies never happen again.”
A Long Legal Battle Before Release
The road to release for Udaipur Files was not easy. The film was originally scheduled to premiere on July 11, 2025. However, a day before the release, the Delhi High Court issued a stay order after a petition challenged the movie.
One of the accused in the case, Javed, had moved the Supreme Court to stop the release. Several legal hurdles followed, with multiple attempts to block the screening.
“The movie faced several challenges,” Yash explained. “First, the High Court put a stay on it. Then, even after efforts to release it, more stays were imposed. Finally, the matter reached the Supreme Court.”
The Supreme Court, however, allowed the film’s release, saying that since the CBFC had already certified the film, it could be shown to the public. The decision was then left to the Central Government, which gave a positive green signal.
Only a day before its release, the final order came, and the film was officially cleared for screening.
Why This Film Matters
Udaipur Files is not just a movie-it is a reminder of the dangers of hate, violence, and extremism. It also shows the challenges faced by families seeking justice after such brutal crimes.
The film’s release has sparked discussions about freedom of expression in cinema, the role of the censor board, and the power of films to highlight real-life events.
The story is also a call for unity and peace. It reminds viewers that differences in opinion should never lead to violence, and that justice must be swift for victims’ families to heal.
Audience Reaction and Expectations
With Vijay Raaz in the lead role, the film has already caught the public’s attention. Many expect powerful performances and an emotional storyline that stays true to the real events.
Cinemas across India have reported strong advance bookings, especially in Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and other northern states. Social media is buzzing with posts from people saying they plan to watch the film to support the victim’s family and learn the full truth behind the incident.
Film analysts believe Udaipur Files may also perform well at the box office due to its sensitive subject and emotional appeal. The mix of fact-based storytelling and gripping drama could connect deeply with audiences.
A Message of Strength and Awareness
At its core, Udaipur Files is about truth, justice, and resilience. It portrays the deep pain of a family and their long fight against a slow legal system. It also warns against the spread of extremist ideas that can turn disagreements into tragedies.
By releasing the film, the makers hope to spark conversations, create awareness, and encourage people to stand up against hate crimes.
Conclusion
As the lights go down in theatres and the first frame of Udaipur Files appears, audiences are not just watching a film-they are witnessing a real family’s pain, courage, and fight for justice. This is not only Kanhaiya Lal’s story; it is a story of every Indian who believes that truth must shine, no matter how many obstacles stand in its way.
Udaipur Files is more than cinema-it’s a wake-up call. When the credits roll, one question will stay with you: Will you be just a viewer, or will you stand for justice?
