Aranyakanda (film)

Aranyakanda is a 2012 Indian neo-noir action thriller film written and directed by Sriram Raghavan. It is considered a significant film in contemporary Indian cinema, noted for its innovative narrative style, realistic violence, and strong performances.

Set in the underworld of Mumbai, the film revolves around a day in the lives of six characters connected through a kidnapping gone wrong. They include a corrupt cop, a ruthless gangster, his ambitious mistress, and a young boy caught in the crossfire. The film's title, "Aranyakanda," is taken from a section of the epic Ramayana, referring to the forest dwelling of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, and alluding to the primal and untamed nature of the events and characters depicted.

Aranyakanda received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, cinematography, and soundtrack. It won two National Film Awards, including the Indira Gandhi Award for Best First Film of a Director and the Best Editing award. While it wasn't a major commercial success upon its initial release, it has gained a cult following over the years and is now recognized as a modern classic of Hindi cinema. The film is known for its realistic portrayal of violence, complex characters, and unpredictable plot twists, contributing to its unique and impactful cinematic experience.