Prahaar Movie: Ujjwal Nikam Opens Up On Rajkummar Rao Film And The 26/11 Trial

The film 'Prahaar: The Untold Story Of Ujjwal Nikam' is trending in India on 16 October 2026 after its release drew reviews and fresh comments from the real-life prosecutor it is named after, Ujjwal Nikam. The film, which stars Rajkummar Rao, has put the spotlight back on Nikam's role in India's most high-profile terror trial.

What is Prahaar about?

According to The Times of India, 'Prahaar: The Untold Story Of Ujjwal Nikam' is being reviewed as a powerful courtroom drama that tries to explore the idea of justice. The Times of India's review notes that the film attempts to humanise a convicted criminal on screen without ever excusing his crimes, suggesting the story is built around a major criminal trial rather than being a simple celebration of the prosecutor's career.

What does Ujjwal Nikam say about the film?

In an interview with ThePrint, Ujjwal Nikam looked back at his experience of leading the 26/11 Mumbai attack trial, the case that made him a household name. He recalled that Ajmal Kasab, the gunman convicted in the attack, used to address him as 'badshah' during proceedings. Nikam also described himself using the word 'gunehgaar', or sinner, reflecting on the emotional and professional weight of prosecuting one of the most significant terror cases in India's history. These comments, as reported by ThePrint, have added a personal dimension to the conversation around the film's release.

Is Prahaar a biopic of Ujjwal Nikam?

No, according to Nikam himself. Speaking to Rediff about the Rajkummar Rao film, he clarified that 'Prahaar' should not be seen as his official biopic, even though the title directly references his name and his work. This suggests the film draws on real events and his career for inspiration while taking creative liberties typical of a dramatised feature rather than a strict life story.

What are critics saying?

Early reaction, as captured in The Times of India's review, points to the film being appreciated for its attempt at nuance — presenting the justice system and the people within it, including the accused, in a layered way instead of a one-sided narrative. The review frames this balance as the film's central achievement: delivering a courtroom story that does not shy away from complexity while still holding the convicted guilty for their actions.

Why this matters today

The 26/11 Mumbai terror attack trial remains one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in India's recent history, and Ujjwal Nikam's role as special public prosecutor made him a prominent public figure. With 'Prahaar' now in cinemas and its lead actor Rajkummar Rao drawing attention, renewed interest in Nikam's own recollections — as shared with ThePrint and Rediff — is driving searches for both the film and the real story behind it. Audiences curious about the trial's background, Nikam's clarification on the biopic question, and the critical reception are together fuelling the trend.