User Reviews

I didnt like the Bollywood style, expected something more refined here since its a historical case. I really liked Junaid's acting at the court scene, somewhere in the middle of the movie he got totally absorbed by the character, and giving it a great finish.

I didn't like the Sharavari's character, was too 80s Bollywood flirty female. Loved the performance of the first actress.

Somehow Jaideep Ahlawat failed to impress me, this is the first time I must say.

Im glad though that this movie was made and really its required for people to understand how carried away they get by religion, customs and traditions.

Maharaj is a pretty decent movie fitting for OTT release. It is well made and brings a real story based on a infamous landmark court case of the 19th century to the screen. Like most period dramas based on stories from 150+ years ago, it represents some fiction and some facts but the movie captures the main essence of the main story. The topic is handled delicately by the director even though the ending seems a bit filmy.

The highlight of the movie is the talented Jaideep Ahlawat who looks divinely evil with a chilling and charismatic smile as the movie's titular antagonist. He truly raises the movie with a very subtle performance. Junaid does a decent job as the movie's protagonist in his debut feature. There are some similarities in acting style with his superstar father Aamir but Junaid lacks the screen and vocal presence of his father. He is decent and does a good job in the movie but at this stage doesnt really sparkle as one would hope. It is still a grounded and well performed role in a serious drama. Only time and mainstream movies will tell if he is a commercially viable actor or a good character actor.

The other actors are decent especially Shalini Pandey who does a good job. Sharvari looks good and is pretty energetic but her role doesnt help the storyline a lot. The sets, design and costumes are pretty good for a period drama. Some of the dialogs are exceptional. The songs are average and actually not required for a movie of such a genre. Overall a decent watch but nothing great. The only 2 reasons to watch the movie are Jaideep Ahlawat for his towering presence and Junaid Khan for the purpose of sheer curiosity. 7/10.

Based on the novel about Maharaj Libel case, the story narrates journalist and social reformer Karsandas Mulji's fight against a godman Jadunath Maharaj as the latter filed a defamation case against the former. Maharaj has been physically exploiting his female devotees in the name of Charan seva practice which was blindly followed by the devotees. Blinded by their faith, Maharaj empowers himself to control his followers. Karsandas shows the courage to fight back through his writing but Maharaj takes the fight to the court of law. How does Karsandas, against all odds, prove Maharaj's crimes and open the eyes of his followers, forms rest of the story.

Junaid Khan for his debut film has chosen a good story but the problem is in the writing. It is too preachy and dull, which is Junaid's role of Karsandas as well. Both the protagonist and antagonist were told to use their smiley face majorly, while Jaideep owns the screen with his presence, it is Junaid who comes out bit too timid. By no means it is a bad performance, it's just that the source material felt too much for the debut actor and eventually Junaid failed to create the right impact in those key scenes. The pace remained slow and there were few standout dialogues which ideally should've left stronger mark.

The powerful, fearless leaders are still unknown to many for our nation's freedom. It is beautifully depicted and performed, and new artists need platforms to exhibit their talents too. This movie might be explaied by many but the exact understanding of any movie you will get once you watch it by yourself. Mostly the translation part between the Sanskrit to other language was totally mind changing movement as how something was written and how people manuplates in their and others life .It gives us a clear insight on knowledge and wisdom .

Thanks to Netflix for giving us the option to see such movies.

After a court case and a string of controversies, the movie dropped on Netflix with minimal promotion. It is a story inspired by true incidents and a case that was widely discussed.

Based on the 2013 Gujarati novel by Saurabh Shah, Karan P. Malhotra's film presents a dramatized account of the landmark 1862 Maharaj libel case. Maharaj filed a defamation case against social reformer and journalist Karsandas Mulji, who exposed his sexual predations disguised as acts of faith.

The story could have been written better. Nevertheless, it keeps you engrossed throughout the narrative. It sets the premise, establishes the characters, and helps you understand the public's blind faith in a godman. The courtroom drama should have been exciting and nail-biting, but with excessive cinematic liberties, it feels highly unrealistic, and the climax takes away the punch it could have delivered.

Set in 1960, the production value is top-notch, making the story highly believable. However, the movie lacks the emotional depth it was supposed to create, failing to make you root for any character. The songs are average and forgettable.

Junaid Khan, son of Aamir Khan, debuts with this movie and was the worst choice for such a strong character. He maintains a single expression throughout the film. On the other hand, Jaideep Ahlawat as Maharaj steals the show. His acting prowess and physical transformation are remarkable, and his calm demeanor makes him both menacing and evil. Shalini Pandey is decent, and surprisingly, Sharvari Wagh, a recent favorite of YRF, has done well, nailing the Gujarati accent.

The film had so much potential with a better screenplay and a stronger lead, but the opportunity is lost. Watch it to learn about the real-life heroes of our country; otherwise, it is just a half-baked work. #pranureviews #Maharaj #MaharajReview.

I thought it would be interesting, underrated coz of Jaideep. But the acting felt forced, I couldn't relate. I was disappointed big time it's not even one time watch. I'm a fan of period drama but this was disappointing. The story felt forced the acting wasn't that impactful. I respect cinema but this wasn't it, everything felt forced as if they are trying really hard to connect with audience or invoke that emotion, but it was utter fail. The acting of the leads wasn't up to the mark. I do wanted to like this but somehow it was disappointing, I mean touching this real situation but can't convey that emotion it's a fail.

"Maharaj," directed by Siddarth P. Anand, is a compelling historical drama that revisits the landmark Maharaj Libel Case of 1862. With an engrossing storyline, powerful performances, and meticulous attention to historical detail, the film offers a vivid portrayal of a pivotal moment in Indian legal history and society.

Plot Summary The film centers on the Maharaj Libel Case, a significant legal battle in Bombay during the British Raj. The case involves a young journalist, played by Junaid Khan, who exposes the immoral activities of a powerful religious leader from the Vaishnav sect, portrayed by Jaideep Ahlawat. The resulting defamation lawsuit becomes a landmark case, highlighting the clash between truth and power, and the fight for justice and moral integrity.

Acting Performances Junaid Khan delivers a breakout performance as the courageous journalist. His portrayal of a principled young man standing up against corruption and hypocrisy is both compelling and inspiring. Khan's nuanced acting captures the internal struggles and resilience of his character, making his journey profoundly relatable.

Jaideep Ahlawat is equally formidable as the antagonist. His depiction of the charismatic yet morally corrupt Maharaj is chilling. Ahlawat's ability to convey the complexities of a powerful figure facing public scrutiny adds significant depth to the narrative. His performance ensures that the character is not just a one-dimensional villain, but a person with his own vulnerabilities and manipulations.

Direction and Cinematography Siddarth P. Anand's direction is masterful, showcasing his talent for creating a rich, immersive historical setting. His eye for detail is evident in the meticulous recreation of 1860s Bombay, bringing to life the bustling streets, colonial architecture, and socio-political atmosphere of the era. Anand's ability to balance the dramatic courtroom scenes with the broader social context of the time is commendable, making the narrative both gripping and educational.

Historical and Cultural Context The film delves deep into the Vaishnav sect, exploring its beliefs, practices, and the influence of its leaders during the British Raj. Anand presents a balanced view of the sect, highlighting its spiritual significance while also critiquing the corruption that can arise within any institution. This contextual richness adds layers to the story, making it not just a legal drama, but a commentary on the complexities of faith and power.

Set Design and Production Values The set design in "Maharaj" is outstanding, capturing the essence of 19th-century Bombay with impressive authenticity. The attention to detail in the costumes, props, and settings creates a visually captivating experience. The production team's dedication to historical accuracy extends to every aspect of the film, from the grand courtrooms to the modest homes and bustling marketplaces. This meticulous craftsmanship immerses the audience in the period, enhancing the storytelling.

Conclusion "Maharaj" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that excels in both storytelling and historical representation. The performances of Junaid Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat are stellar, bringing depth and intensity to their characters. Siddarth P. Anand's direction ensures that the film is not only a compelling legal drama but also a rich historical tapestry that sheds light on an important chapter in Indian history.

With its engaging narrative, strong performances, and impeccable production values, "Maharaj" stands out as a significant contribution to contemporary Indian cinema. It is a film that challenges, inspires, and transports the audience to a crucial moment in time, reminding us of the enduring struggle for truth and justice.

The film was suddenly shown without any marketing for it, just some news about the participation of Junaid Khan, son of the star Aamir Khan, in the film, in addition to the battle between the film makers and the courts.

The film, from my point of view, is a Bollywood film with all the elements of enjoyable home viewing, but I was I hope that the film tends to narrate history and events in more depth, without songs, performances, and melodramatic dialogues.

The scenery and sets, the costumes and music, the cinematography and the direction, are all good factors in this film.

The acting is very good and a successful start for Junaid Khan, and I hope to see his upcoming works. The film is worth watching, but I expected it to be stronger than what I saw.

Any who crosses the dignity n sanctity of Vedic injunctions for ulterior selfish motives misusing n misguiding needs to be taught a lesson. That's the theme of the movie. Story revolves around a true historical court case of 1862 in Bombay portraying the fight between a self claimed saint n a social reformer. A socially highly relevant film with an amazing sets, cast n execution. Storytelling has been powerful. Definitely worth a watch. Available on Netflix. My ratings 7/10!

Any who crosses the dignity n sanctity of Vedic injunctions for ulterior selfish motives misusing n misguiding needs to be taught a lesson. That's the theme of the movie. Story revolves around a true historical court case of 1862 in Bombay portraying the fight between a self claimed saint n a social reformer. A socially highly relevant film with an amazing sets, cast n execution. Storytelling has been powerful. Definitely worth a watch. Available on Netflix. My ratings 7/10!

The film excels in storytelling, weaving a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. Each actor plays their part with remarkable skill, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. The direction is top-notch, seamlessly blending the script with stunning visuals and a captivating score. The cinematography enhances the story, capturing both the grandeur of the settings and the subtleties of the characters' emotions. The editing is sharp, ensuring perfect pacing. Overall, this film is a masterful blend of artistry and performance, making it a must-watch for any cinema enthusiast.

Junaid will take some time as an actor to make his place there but overall the subject on which film is being made is absolute thought provoking in itself jaideep aehlawat is usp of the film his looks acting everything was top notch, i don't know why 9 out of 10 articles are written against this film its a request to promote such cinema in our country instead of crap like pathaan and jawab we want our country to be educate enough to know the difference of right and wrong. If we will not promote such films that is why still such incidents are there in the society like asharam baapu and ram rahim.

Rating: (10/10)

Bollywood has truly outdone itself with "Maharaj," finally reaching the standards it is known for with revolutionary storytelling and a grand cinematic canvas. This film not only entertains but also educates, casting a critical eye on the myths and havoc created by religious goons in pre-independent India-a subject still relevant today.

The narrative, constructed around deep-rooted societal issues and the exploitation of religious beliefs, is both powerful and poignant. It sheds light on the rampant ignorance and blind faith that continue to plague many communities. Movies like "Maharaj" have the potential to spark social reforms by exposing these harsh realities and prompting viewers to question and reflect.

The casting is nothing short of phenomenal. Every actor delivers an extraordinary performance, bringing their characters to life with depth and authenticity. Their collective talent elevates the film, making it a memorable and impactful experience.

In summary, "Maharaj" is a fantastic film that stands out not only for its storytelling and visuals but also for its courageous exploration of societal issues. It is a must-watch, deserving of every accolade and praises.

I had high hopes for this film, thinking it would be interesting and underrated due to Jaideep's involvement. However, I was disappointed. The acting felt forced, and I couldn't relate to the characters. It's not even a one-time watch for me. As a fan of period dramas, I found this one particularly disappointing. The story seemed contrived, and the acting wasn't impactful. While I respect cinema, this film fell short; everything felt forced, as if the filmmakers were trying too hard to connect with the audience or evoke emotion. Unfortunately, it was an utter fail. The lead actors' performances were not up to the mark. I really wanted to like this film, but it couldn't convey the emotion of its real-life situation, making it a failure in my eyes.

A very well written and directed. The actors have done justice to their characters. It does say it's based on true events, which does sound and look like. But , it is a lesson for a devotee from any religion. This movie, doesn't encourage one to be atheist, but encourages one to question things done by men in the name of God. I really liked the message it send across all the religions, traditions and cultures. The movie helps one think and question the things they do in the name of tradition, culture or religion. The songs were beautiful, however not required. The best part was, there was no dragging. Every scene had a message to share.

When you watch the movie, you will realize that the issues it addresses are not just historical but continue to resonate in today's society. It's disconcerting to confront the fact that in the past, such exploitative practices were not only prevalent but sometimes even celebrated within families.

This film serves as a good reminder of the dangers of blind faith, whether rooted in religion or caste, and emphasizes the importance of rationality and critical thinking in societal norms.

While the direction and screenplay of the movie show room for improvement, they manage to convey the message effectively.

Regarding the acting, Jaideep and Junaid bring different levels of experience to their roles. Junaid, being new to the industry, has shown promise in his portrayal, and with more opportunities, he is likely to deepen his understanding and portrayal of characters over time.

Junaid, your performance in your debut movie was incredibly natural and impressive, capturing our attention from start to finish. I eagerly anticipate witnessing your versatility in future roles! Jaideep Ahlawat, you delivered yet another outstanding performance, showcasing your talent once more. Sharvari and Shalini also shone brightly, perfectly embodying their respective characters. It's clear the casting director excelled in assembling such a talented ensemble!

The request is for more true stories that expose the exploitation of influence by religious leaders, highlighting how a significant portion of society perpetuates and supports this issue.

When you watch this you will feel the content at its best. Make a list of goods and bads about this movie you will hardly get any bad but when you take a look ok the goods you will think how it's possible this movie needs justice for itself. It's too good too much it's a drama thriller everyone should watch. From Jaideep Ahlawat to Sharawari all have performed very well. As a debutante in main lead Junaid Aamir Khan is amazing. He has potential to be The Aamir Khan of New Generation. Overall the movie is amazing and deserves proper marketing which is unfortunately not done in a proper way because of the restrictions. AMUST WATCH.

The fact that this movie is being rated negatively tells us people get wrongly motivated. There is nothing in this movie that tarnishes our great Hindu dharma or the Vaishnavas. It in fact glorifies the true values on which our religion is built. It is a battle of one mans karma against the Dushkarma of another man. It is people like Karsan das who has freed the society of wrongful acts and belief. About the movie, it is such a well made masterclass of film making. Brilliant acting and storytelling makes it an engaging watch throughout. The directors have been very watchful not to hurt any religious sentiments. One of the best movies of this decade for sure. Must Watch !

Very well made movie that shines light on the sacrifices made by our Ancestors to stand up againt the social evil in desguise of religion.

This is by far the best movie made on the subject, very similar to dev dasiyaan. Based on true events, the movie portrays the self declared God like cult leader using religious brainwashing to exploit young women for his own desires. I am surprised by the controversy around the film because it simply shows that Sanatam Dharma is beautiful and rich and such tainted leaders twist the teachings to benefit their own good and not the masses.

The cast remains true to their character. Strong performance by Jaideep Ahlawat and debutant Junaid Khan. The direction could have been bit tighter and I believe the addition of Sarvari Wagh was unnecessary and just done to add another female lead for the audience.

Overall, a great watch and highly recommended!!

Quite surprised to see some of the negative ratings here. I think for someone who has just started out Junaid Khan's acting was impeccable, and so were the other actors. The dialogue deliveries were good and quite effective. I read somewhere and it's not worth the watch, and they had to stop midway. Just want to say only those who understand the value of what KarsanBhai Das did for his community would understand the value of this film and would want to watch it. It's these kind of Landmark orders from Courts that have given justice to oppressed people. Apart from that I thought the set was pretty well done.

Please don't go by negative reviews here. Watch the film and judge for yourself.

The movie truly sparks the feeling of courage in you. It's a beautiful watch and wonderfully written. The dialogues are excellent, the acting of everyone except the lead cast is to the point. The male lead could've done better. Nevertheless the story is brilliant and worth a watch. It's a period drama and the fact that it's inspired by true events makes it even more interesting. The ban on the release now seems totally unnecessary because this does not aim to degrade or hurt religious sentiments but rather show how social reformers made a difference and because of them we live in better conditions.

Loved the film in and out. Jaideep as usual was suoer. Ammir son made it with a meaningful film. History and facts and was so nice to see the people who really stood up for people. Made the lives of women better. It's a must watch for everyone and then you can decide if tou like or not. Raises good questions on practices which are careied out in the name kf relgion. This film is an art piece and am glad it's gone down in history. I wish it was in theaters. The production acting characterization was fabulous & the narrative sure is far stronger snd the message to tale back.

Its a film to be prpud of and i am in indian cinema.

Very well scripted and the set is just mind blowing. It just work like a time machine and take you 150 years back era .

Junaid khan has acted superb his expression and emotion and jaideep Ahlawat is also played very well his expression is just the way character needed.

Priyal gor bubbly character was also very fun to watch.

Those Gujrati's language in between adds the real ingredient and make the movie feel realistic.

If you don't like any nonsense and to the point simple movie with message and if you like classic setup then this movie is gem for you.

In the end of movie those references are superb.

This movie remind the series Aashram in the era of pre independence.

Karsan Das, salute.