Rajkummar Rao Stars as Ujjwal Nikam in Hard-Hitting 'Prahaar' Teaser

Maddock Films has released the teaser for its upcoming courtroom drama Prahaar – The Ujjwal Nikam Story, setting a tense and emotionally charged tone for a film rooted in real-life events.

The movie draws inspiration from the professional journey of Ujjwal Nikam, played by Rajkummar Rao. Nikam is one of India’s most prominent special public prosecutors and has been associated with several landmark criminal cases.

Inside the Kasab Trial

The teaser indicates that the narrative will primarily focus on a defining phase of Nikam's career: the high-stakes trial connected to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and the case involving terrorist Ajmal Kasab. It positions the courtroom as a space of intense legal and moral battles where arguments carry national weight.

The footage opens with a powerful dialogue from Rao:

“In the past year and a half, because of this case, many people have repeatedly asked me—when photos and videos clearly show what happened, why are we not hanging Kasab?”

The courtroom drama then shows glimpses of the Ajmal Kasab trial alongside scenes from the attacks. Rao’s character asks the court to consider the night of the attacks through a specific lens:

“For a moment, put yourself in Inspector Govilkar’s place on the night of 26/11, the officer who was shot by Kasab. Obviously, he would have been filled with anger. And when Kasab was finally caught alive, Inspector Govilkar did not say, ‘Shoot him, finish him off quickly.’ Instead, he said, ‘Yala maru naka’ (Don’t kill him). Why did he say this? The answer is very simple: India.”

The teaser closes with Nikam demanding ultimate justice: “That is why, for the crime of waging war against India, I, Ujjwal Nikam, demand that Ajmal Amir Kasab should be hanged till death.”

Rajkummar Rao's Transformation

Rajkummar Rao steps into another deeply immersive role, with the teaser highlighting a distinct physical and emotional transformation. From his body language to his facial expressions and dialogue delivery, the actor appears fully committed to capturing the discipline and intensity of a seasoned prosecutor.

A key highlight of the performance is Rao's attempt at Marathi diction, adding a layer of authenticity to the portrayal. The film leans heavily on sharp, impactful dialogue, hinting at a performance-driven narrative where courtroom exchanges form the emotional backbone of the story.

Production and Release Details

Prahaar is directed by Avinash Arun, known for his acclaimed work on Paatal Lok and Three of Us. The teaser suggests his directorial focus remains on realism, tension, and the emotional weight carried by those involved in high-profile legal battles.

The film features a strong supporting cast, including:

• Wamiqa Gabbi

• Jaideep Ahlawat

• Sikandar Kher

• Tarun Sharma

Prahaar – The Ujjwal Nikam Story is scheduled to release in cinemas on 7 August 2026.