MUMBAI: An untold story of Kashmiri Pandits, Shikara is bound to take you down memory lane if you are a Kashmiri Pandit, who has either grown up listening to stories of the brutality against your clan or is been a victim of the brutality. 

The movie is showcases history with a flavour of romance and drama. Produced and directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, who has given us gems like 3 Idiots, P.K., and Munna Bhai M.B.B.S, the film has kept the Kashmiri flavour intact throughout. 

Set in striking valley of Kashmir, Shikara talks about the dreadful exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from their homeland in the 90s, thirty years after the actual events took place. 

The story revolves around Kashmiri couple Shiv Kumar Dhar aka Aadil Khan and Shanti Dhar aka Sadia, who fall in love, get married, and, just like any normal couple, plan a beautiful future together in their Shikara, that is, their home. But everything goes downhill when Shiv’s dear friend Laatif loses his father and turns into a terrorist. They have to leave their home and run to India, as house are being burned and Kashmiri Pandits are being killed. 

The historical drama will keep you glued to your seats, as it is well written by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Rahul Pandita, and Abhijat Joshi. The first half of the movie, which shows the struggles of Shiv and Shanti, is quite intense and well presented. The second half, which revolves around the duo struggling to get back to their homes in Kashmir, is a little slow.

That being said, the makers have managed to strike a balance between both parts, and the movie will not let you get bored.

Music plays an important part in the film. Composed by Sandesh Shandilya, Abhay Sopori, Rohit Kulkami, A.R. Rahman, and Qutub-E-Kripa, each song is beautifully written, and some have an authentic Kashmiri touch. 

The makers indeed have worked hard to get the perfect cast in place and have managed to train them in the short time they had. Adil and Sadia, despite being newcomers and non-actors, have done a decent job, but kudos to Sadia, who acted out her emotions skillfully. 

We would like to applaud team Vidhu Vinod Chopra and team Shikara for showcasing the event beautifully while keeping the authenticity of the culture and heritage intact.

TellyChakkar gives Shikara a rating of 3.5 on 5.