Mulk (2018), directed by Anubhav Sinha, is an Indian courtroom drama that confronts one of the most pressing issues in modern India — religious prejudice and communal bias. Through a gripping legal battle, the film exposes how fear and stereotyping can tear families and societies apart.
Detailed Summary
The Story Begins: A Family in Varanasi
The film opens in Varanasi, where Murad Ali Mohammed (played by Rishi Kapoor) lives peacefully with his extended Muslim family. Murad is a respected lawyer, known for his fairness and integrity, and his family shares a close bond with their Hindu neighbors.
However, things take a dark turn when Murad’s nephew, Shahid Mohammed (Prateik Babbar), becomes involved with a terrorist group and participates in a bomb blast that kills innocent people. The revelation sends shockwaves through the community and ignites suspicion against the entire Mohammed family.
The Arrest and the Accusations
When Shahid is killed in an encounter with the police, the family’s nightmare worsens. Murad’s younger brother, Bilal Mohammed, is accused of supporting his son’s terrorist activities. The local police and media quickly label the family as “terror sympathizers,” reflecting the growing Islamophobia that the film boldly critiques.
Murad, once respected, suddenly becomes an outcast. Even his long-time friends begin to question his loyalty.
Enter Aarti Mohammed – The Lawyer Daughter-in-Law
Aarti Mohammed (played by Taapsee Pannu), a Hindu woman who married Murad’s nephew, comes to the family’s defense. She decides to represent Bilal in court, believing that her in-laws deserve justice and that one person’s crime should not define an entire family or community.
The Courtroom Battle
The heart of Mulk lies in its courtroom sequences, filled with fiery exchanges and emotional depth. The prosecution, led by Santosh Anand (Ashutosh Rana), argues that Bilal must have known about his son’s extremist actions. He generalizes the crime, subtly implying that Muslim families often “protect their own.”
Aarti counters these claims with calm logic and passion. She dismantles the argument of collective blame, making a strong case for individuality and constitutional equality. Her closing argument — that a terrorist has no religion — becomes the film’s defining moment.
Unmasking the Real Conflict
Throughout the trial, the film peels back layers of social bias, showing how the media and public opinion can demonize a community. The courtroom becomes a metaphorical battleground between prejudice and truth.
As witnesses testify, flashbacks reveal that Murad had repeatedly opposed Shahid’s radicalization. He had even tried to report his nephew to the authorities, but no one took his concerns seriously.
Movie Ending
In the final act, Aarti’s defense exposes the hypocrisy of those who judge entire communities for the crimes of individuals. Evidence surfaces proving that Bilal had no knowledge of his son’s extremist activities. The judge acquits him, declaring that the law must not discriminate between citizens based on faith.
The verdict scene is one of the most powerful moments in Indian courtroom cinema. Murad, relieved but heartbroken, reminds everyone that the fight is not against individuals but against the mentality that divides society.
In a symbolic closing speech, he addresses the public: “This is our country too. We don’t have to prove our patriotism every day.” The film ends with Murad lighting a diya (lamp) at his home, a traditional act of peace — subtly signifying harmony between communities.
The ending is bittersweet: justice is served, but the emotional scars of suspicion and hatred linger.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, Mulk does not have any post-credits scenes. The film concludes with Murad’s final speech and fades out after the symbolic lamp-lighting moment, leaving the audience in reflection rather than setting up any sequel.
Type of Movie
Mulk is a courtroom drama and social commentary film that blends elements of family drama and legal thriller. It focuses more on moral and ideological conflict than on action or suspense.
Cast
- Rishi Kapoor as Murad Ali Mohammed
- Taapsee Pannu as Aarti Mohammed
- Ashutosh Rana as Santosh Anand (Public Prosecutor)
- Prateik Babbar as Shahid Mohammed
- Rajat Kapoor as Danish Javed (Police Officer)
- Neena Gupta as Tabassum Mohammed
- Manoj Pahwa as Bilal Mohammed
Film Music and Composer
The film’s music was composed by Anurag Saikia, with lyrics by Shakeel Azmi. The songs are subtle, reflective, and minimal — mostly used to enhance the emotional weight rather than to entertain. The background score is intense and grounded, heightening the courtroom drama’s tension.
Filming Locations
Mulk was primarily shot in Varanasi and Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. These locations are central to the story’s authenticity. Varanasi’s mixed-religion neighborhoods mirror the movie’s central theme — coexistence amidst difference. The courtroom scenes were shot on specially constructed sets in Lucknow.
Awards and Nominations
Mulk received widespread critical acclaim and several awards, including:
- Filmfare Critics Award for Best Film (2019) – Won
- Best Actor (Rishi Kapoor) – Nominated
- Best Actress (Taapsee Pannu) – Nominated
- Best Dialogue (Anubhav Sinha & Mushtaq Shiekh) – Won
It was also showcased at various international film festivals for its bold take on communal politics.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Anubhav Sinha decided to make Mulk after real-life incidents of religious intolerance in India moved him deeply.
- Rishi Kapoor called Mulk one of the most important films of his career, stating that it changed his outlook on social issues.
- Taapsee Pannu prepared for her courtroom role by observing real court sessions in Mumbai.
- The entire courtroom sequence was shot in about 17 days, requiring long dialogue-heavy takes.
Inspirations and References
Mulk is not based on a specific book but was inspired by real events and societal debates surrounding terrorism, nationalism, and religious identity in India. The film indirectly references the 2008 Batla House encounter case and similar media trials where Muslim families were unfairly branded as traitors.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
No alternate ending has been publicly released, but there were reports of deleted courtroom scenes that offered more dialogue between Murad and Aarti about faith and patriotism. These were cut to maintain pacing and focus.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The movie is not adapted from a book, but it aligns with the spirit of Indian constitutional values and freedom of religion as explored in social literature like We, The People of India by Nani Palkhivala.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Shahid’s radicalization and bomb sequence that changes everything.
- Murad’s arrest and public humiliation.
- Aarti’s impassioned courtroom defense.
- The judge’s verdict scene.
- Murad lighting the diya at the end.
Iconic Quotes
- Murad Ali Mohammed: “This is also our country. We don’t need a certificate to prove our loyalty.”
- Aarti Mohammed: “A terrorist doesn’t have a religion. If he does, then the entire humanity is guilty.”
- Santosh Anand: “The law must protect the innocent before it punishes the guilty.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film’s opening scene features children from both religions playing together — foreshadowing the idea that prejudice is learned, not innate.
- The newspaper headlines shown throughout the movie subtly mirror real headlines from past terror incidents.
- The diya-lighting scene mirrors an earlier scene where Hindu neighbors perform a similar act — symbolizing reconciliation.
Trivia
- Mulk was banned in Pakistan due to its political content.
- Rishi Kapoor reportedly cried during the filming of Murad’s courtroom speech.
- The director Anubhav Sinha said he received hate mail and praise in equal measure after the film’s release.
- The courtroom set was so realistic that real lawyers who visited thought it was a functioning court.
Why Watch?
Watch Mulk for its brave storytelling, powerful performances, and timely message about unity and justice. It’s a film that challenges prejudices and reminds viewers that identity should never be judged by faith.
Director’s Other Movies
- Article 15 (2019)
- Thappad (2020)
- Anek (2022)
- Tum Bin (2001)
- Ra.One (2011)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Article 15 (2019)
- Pink (2016)
- Court (2014)
- Section 375 (2019)
- Shahid (2013)
- No One Killed Jessica (2011)
