GANGAAJAL

An exploration of the relationship between society and the police through the dilemma of a police officer caught between social good and moral right.

Presented by: Entertainment One

Produced by: Prakash Jha Productions

Directed: Prakash Jha

Year of Realease: 2003

Cast: Ajay Devgan, Gracy Singh, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Mohan Agashe, Ayub Khan, Akhilendra Mishra, Mohan Joshi

Synopsis: By the river Ganga lies the imaginary district town of Tejpur in Bihar. Amit Kumar, played by Ajay Devgan, is the new Superintendent of Police.

In Tejpur Amit encounters an ensemble of colourful characters. The uncrowned emperor - Sadhu Yadav, his debauched son Sundar, the self-righteous journalist Rabidas, the policemen who close their eyes to everything around... The beedi-smoking corrupt DSP Bhurelal and Bachcha Yadav, the policeman who inspired by Amit makes life-transforming choices.

Amit tries to breathe life into the decaying police force and some of his officers begin to trust him and respond. But the shackles of the corrupt system are too strong to break. The cynicism of the disillusioned townsmen doesn't help either. They are blocked at every juncture and often humiliated. Inspiration gives way to frustration. This leads them to seek reckless solutions. And a weapon of revenge is accidentally discovered. This weapon of revenge becomes a symbol of purification in the hands of the common people. Suddenly a spineless society transforms into a mob on a crusade for justice and revenge.

The ordinary citizen is suddenly empowered, but dangerously. Soon the lines become blurred - what is right? What is just? Amit finds himself in a dilemma. His wife, Anuradha (Gracy Singh), acts as his conscience keeper. She is deeply pained by what is happening around her and questions him every step of the way. Amit, disturbed and frustrated, withdraws from her.

Awards:

Silver Lotus - Best Feature Film on Other Social Issue - 2004 (National Award)