Eighteen years after the devastating 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the tragedy continues to remain a painful chapter in India’s history. On November 26, 2008, members of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), with assistance from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, carried out a series of attacks that shook Mumbai and the entire nation.
Several films have explored the attacks from different perspectives, with the latest being Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam. Released in theatres on October 16, 2026, the film presents a courtroom drama based on the role of Special Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam in the case against the perpetrators. Directed by Avinash Arun, the film combines legal proceedings, personal sacrifices and emotional moments to revisit one of India’s most traumatic events.
Despite the numerous films made on the subject, including Kangana Ranaut’s Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata (2026), Prahaar offers a gripping account of the legal battle and serves as a tribute to the victims and the personnel who lost their lives while responding to the attacks.
‘Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam’ Plot
Although presented as a biographical film about prominent Indian lawyer Ujjwal Nikam, Prahaar focuses primarily on the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case rather than his other high-profile legal battles, including the 1993 Bombay bomb blasts case.
The story follows Nikam as he builds the prosecution’s case against Ajmal Kasab, the sole surviving terrorist involved in the attacks, played by Lalit Prabhakar. The film explores the legal challenges involved in securing justice while establishing the accused’s role and the wider involvement of Pakistan in the incident.
Nikam’s professional responsibilities also take a toll on his family life. His children struggle with his frequent absence and the important moments he misses, while his wife, Jyoti Nikam, played by Wamiqa Gabbi, continues to stand by him through difficult times.
The contrast between the two lawyers adds another layer to the narrative. While Nikam approaches the case with a broader national perspective and insists on following a fair legal process, Mohammed Ahfaz Qureshi, Kasab’s defence lawyer, played by Sikandar Kher, remains focused on defending his client and fulfilling his professional responsibilities.
The film also highlights Nikam’s efforts to ensure that Kasab receives a fair trial. He argues that the accused’s initial confession should not automatically be treated as his final statement, particularly when it may have been made in an attempt to save himself. As the proceedings unfold, Nikam works to establish Kasab’s involvement and the links to Pakistan.
Emotional Moments and Courtroom Drama
Director Avinash Arun balances the tension of the courtroom proceedings with the emotional consequences of the terror attacks. The film delivers the suspense expected from a real-life legal drama while giving considerable attention to the victims and their families.
One of its most moving sequences involves 10-year-old Komal Ahirwar, who testifies against Kasab in court. Played by child actor Dior Ranju Varghees, Komal is a survivor who witnessed her mother being shot by the terrorist. She also suffers injuries that leave her with lasting consequences. Her courtroom testimony becomes one of the film’s most emotionally powerful moments.
Another striking sequence depicts Kasab experiencing hallucinations inside his prison cell as he begins to confront the reality of his situation. The film explores how his handlers misled him about India and promised him heaven in return for killing innocent civilians and members of the security forces.
The family scenes involving Nikam add emotional depth to the story, showing the personal compromises that accompany his demanding career. These moments prevent the narrative from becoming solely focused on courtroom arguments and legal strategy.
Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi and Jaideep Ahlawat’s Performances
Rajkummar Rao delivers a compelling performance as Ujjwal Nikam, capturing the lawyer’s determination, seriousness and distinctive Marathi speech patterns. His portrayal anchors the film, bringing conviction to the courtroom sequences and the character’s commitment to the case.
Wamiqa Gabbi is equally impressive as Jyoti Nikam. She portrays a supportive wife who manages the family’s emotional challenges while standing firmly behind her husband’s professional responsibilities. Her performance captures the character’s sensitivity and the sacrifices she makes for her family.
Ritvik Sahore performs well as Aniket, Nikam’s lawyer son, who wants to make his father proud while ensuring that the family receives the attention it needs. Pranali Ghogare also delivers a convincing performance as Sharvari, Nikam’s daughter.
Jaideep Ahlawat makes a strong impression as Brigadier Muddasir Nazzar, a lawyer who travels from Pakistan to Mumbai to meet Nikam and his team. Initially defensive, his character gradually develops an unexpected friendship with Nikam. Their relationship gains further emotional significance as Nazzar shares his own family struggles.
Lalit Prabhakar is effective as Ajmal Kasab, particularly in scenes that portray the accused’s anguish. Although his appearance seems older and fitter than expected for the young terrorist depicted in the story, his acting remains convincing. His accent could have been more consistent in a few places, but his emotional performance stands out.
Sikandar Kher is another highlight as defence lawyer Mohammed Ahfaz Qureshi, delivering a strong portrayal of a professional navigating a difficult case. Veteran actor Ashish Vidyarthi brings authority to his role as Justice M L Tahaliyani, while Ajinkya Deo is effective as senior police officer Bipin Naria.
Sandeep Kulkarni, despite his screen presence, is underutilised, with no dialogues that allow him to make a greater impact. Meanwhile, Dior Ranju Varghees deserves special recognition for her portrayal of Komal Ahirwar. Tina Bhatiya Das also performs well as Komal’s mother. The supporting cast, including the actors portraying Mumbai Police personnel, contributes effectively to the narrative.
‘Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam’ Verdict
Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam is a compelling courtroom drama that combines the legal battle surrounding the 26/11 attacks with the personal struggles of the people involved. Rather than relying only on the horror of the incident, the film explores the pursuit of justice, the importance of a fair trial and the lasting emotional impact of the tragedy.
Avinash Arun, who also serves as the film’s cinematographer, delivers a focused account of the case, supported by strong performances from Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Jaideep Ahlawat and the rest of the cast.
Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam was released in theatres on October 16, 2026. The film stands out for its courtroom tension, emotional storytelling and portrayal of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice after one of India’s darkest days.