When a show leaves you shaken to your core, you know it’s done something right. Or perhaps, something profoundly unsettling. That’s exactly what Raakh, Ali Fazal’s latest series, has achieved, and it’s sparked a conversation that goes far beyond its gripping narrative. Inspired by the chilling 1978 Ranga-Billa case, the show isn’t just a retelling of a horrific crime—it’s a mirror held up to society’s darkest corners. Personally, I think what makes Raakh so compelling is its refusal to shy away from the ugliness of humanity. It doesn’t sugarcoat, it doesn’t romanticize, and it certainly doesn’t offer easy answers. And that’s precisely why Karan Johar’s review of the series feels so poignant.
One thing that immediately stands out is Karan’s raw, unfiltered reaction. He calls it ‘deeply disturbing,’ and I couldn’t agree more. But what’s fascinating is how he, as a filmmaker and a parent, grapples with the show’s themes. As a father to twins, he’s not just watching a crime drama—he’s confronting every parent’s worst nightmare. The kidnapping and murder of Geeta and Sanjay Chopra, the real-life tragedy that inspired Raakh, isn’t just a story; it’s a haunting reminder of the fragility of innocence. What many people don’t realize is how such cases reshape societal norms. After the Ranga-Billa incident, child safety became a national conversation. Raakh doesn’t just revisit the crime; it reignites that dialogue, forcing us to ask uncomfortable questions about morality, justice, and the human psyche.
From my perspective, the show’s brilliance lies in its storytelling. Prosit Roy’s direction is impeccable, but it’s the performances that truly elevate Raakh to another level. Sonali Bendre and Aamir Bashir, as the grieving parents, deliver what I can only describe as career-defining roles. Their portrayal of unimaginable pain is so raw, so authentic, that it’s impossible not to be moved. What this really suggests is that great acting isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about capturing the quiet, devastating moments of grief. Karan Johar’s praise for their performances isn’t just a compliment; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling when it’s done right.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Raakh isn’t just about the victims or their families. It’s about the perpetrators, too. The show delves into the minds of the criminals, exploring the trauma and circumstances that might drive someone to commit such heinous acts. This raises a deeper question: Can we ever truly understand evil? Or should we even try? Personally, I think the show’s attempt to humanize the villains, without justifying their actions, is both bold and necessary. It challenges us to confront the complexity of human nature, rather than simply labeling someone as ‘monstrous.’
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Raakh manages to be both devastating and thought-provoking. It’s not a comfortable watch, and it’s not meant to be. But that’s the point. If you take a step back and think about it, the best art often forces us to confront truths we’d rather ignore. Raakh doesn’t just tell a story—it demands that we reflect on our own society, our own failings, and our own capacity for both good and evil.
In my opinion, the show’s impact extends beyond its narrative. It’s a reminder of the power of true-crime storytelling when it’s handled with sensitivity and respect. Too often, these stories are sensationalized, reducing victims to mere plot points. Raakh avoids that trap, instead focusing on the human cost of tragedy. A detail that I find especially interesting is how the show manages to be immersive without being exploitative. It’s a fine line, but one that the creators navigate with remarkable skill.
Looking ahead, I can’t help but wonder what Raakh’s legacy will be. Will it be remembered as just another crime series, or will it spark a broader conversation about justice, accountability, and the fragility of human life? Personally, I think it’s the latter. Shows like this don’t come around often, and when they do, they leave an indelible mark. Raakh isn’t just a series—it’s a wake-up call. And if it leaves you disturbed, as it did Karan Johar, then it’s done its job. Because sometimes, the most important stories are the ones that force us to look into the abyss and ask: What does it mean to be human?
