In 2022, a low-budget film unexpectedly turned into a box office sensation, earning over Rs 340 crore while tackling one of India’s darkest and most painful chapters.
Published: October 5, 2025 11:02 AM IST
In 2022, a film shook the nation, forcing people to confront the brutal realities of a dark chapter in India’s history. Made on a modest budget of ₹25 crore, this movie went on to collect a staggering Rs 340 crore at the box office. The film’s success can be attributed to its gripping narrative, powerful performances, and its ability to spark a national conversation about the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus.
The horrors of exodus
“The Kashmir Files” is a film that tells the story of the 1990 exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from the Kashmir Valley. The movie follows the journey of a young Kashmiri Pandit, Krishna, who discovers the truth about his family’s past and the circumstances that led to their displacement. Through a series of flashbacks, the film reveals the brutalities faced by the Kashmiri Pandits at the hands of Islamic militants, including killings, rapes, and forced conversions. The film’s narrative is woven around the real-life testimonies of Kashmiri Pandits who were forced to flee their homes. The film features a talented cast, including Anupam Kher, Darshan Saurav, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Chinmay Mandlekar, Pooja Chopra, and Prakash Belawadi.
Controversies and criticism related to it
While the film has been praised for its bold portrayal of a sensitive topic, it has also faced criticism for its perceived bias and selective narrative. Some critics have accused the film of promoting Islamophobia and Hindu nationalism, while others have questioned the film’s historical accuracy. The film’s director, Vivek Agnihotri, has been accused of exploiting the suffering of Kashmiri Pandits to further his own political agenda.
More about The Kashmir Files
“The Kashmir Files” has been a game-changer in terms of its impact on the national discourse. The film’s success has shown that there is a hunger for stories that need to be told, and that cinema can be a powerful tool for social change. The film’s OTT release on platforms like ZEE5 has made it accessible to a wider audience, sparking heated debates and discussions about the film’s themes and messages.
Story Highlights
- The Kashmir Files (2022) became a surprise blockbuster, earning over Rs 340 crore on a modest Rs 25 crore budget.
- The film explores the 1990 exodus of Kashmiri Hindus through the emotional journey of a young man uncovering his family’s past.
- Based on real-life testimonies, the movie highlights the atrocities faced by Kashmiri Pandits, killings, rapes, and forced displacement.
- Despite its success, it faced criticism for alleged political bias, historical distortion, and promoting communal division.
The Kashmir Files sparked national conversation with its raw portrayal of a tragic chapter in Indian history. While praised for giving voice to Kashmiri Pandits, the film also ignited debate over its narrative and intent.
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