Shikara Full Movie download and Review

Story: The story of the film is centred around the mass evacuation of Kashmiri Pandits in 1990, the story traces the life of young newlyweds, Shiv Kumar Dhar (Aadil Khan) and Shanti Dhar (Sadia), who flee their homeland and take refuge at a camp in Jammu, with the promise that they will return home some day.

Release date: 7 February 2020
Director and Producer: Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Star Cast: Sadia, Aadil Khan
Music director: A. R. Rahman, Qutub-E-Kripa, Abhay Sopori, Sandesh Shandilya

The setting is late 80s and the communal tension in the picturesque valley of Kashmir is increasing at an alarming rate with every passing day. The literature enthusiast Shiv and his docile wife Shanti are convinced that they are safe in the neighbourhood they have called home for decades now. But, as years pass by, the intensity of widespread religious violence surpasses the supposition of the couple and that of thousands of other Kashmiri Pandits. They are struck with the horrific exodus of January 19, 1990. Standing at the threshold of losing everything they ever had, Shiva and Shanti are now torn between two equally tough choices – save their lives and leave behind their beloved birthplace or stay back and face the aftermath of a battle against their community.
Review:  ‘Shikara’ is an attempt to bring to light the plight of Kashmiri Pandits and their insurmountable strength and courage in the face of adversity. Staying true to the 90s era and the hostility prevalent during that period rolls out his historical romantic drama through an innocent love story between two perpetual optimists. Then, blends it with the real-life story of constant conflict between the Muslim extremists and the Kashmiri Pandits in the valley.
Considering it’s a historical drama, it is rather disappointing to witness that the film does not go beyond a few fleeting mentions of the ordeal of the people from the other side of the incident; a one sided approach. Some parts of the screenplay of ‘Shikara’ seem all too convenient; almost like it was written in haste to rush back to the theme of romance. \
Sadia and Aadil Khan make an attractive pair to watch on screen. Sadia, with her infectious smile, is a natural in portions where she is playing the younger part. Aadil’s depiction of an amateur poet does not resonate half as much as his portrayal of an older man.

The music and background score (A.R Rahman and Sandesh Shandilya) of ‘Shikara’ is like balm for the soul, with able support from lyricist Irshad Kamil.  As a love story, it works at some level, but in the bigger picture, this old-school romance doesn't really grip you and keep you engaged for too long.