Name: Nishaanchi
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Interpreters: Aaishvary Thackeray, Monika Panwar, Vedika Pinto, Kumud Mishra, Vineet Kumar Singh
Writer: Anurag Kashyap, Ranjan Chandel and Prasoon Mishra
Note: 2.5 / 5
Plot
Nishaanchi by Anurag Kashyap follows a path that we have traveled several times before. Echoes of classics like Mother India and Karan Arjun are obvious, where the brothers get up against all odds to protect their relatives from a threatening antagonist, Ambika Prasad (Kumud Mishra).
In this film, the beginner Aaisishvary Thackeray tries a double role of Babloo and Dabloo, two brothers with very contrasting personalities. While Dabloo marries the burden of Babloo’s carelessness, Babloo spends a large part of his life behind bars. The story takes place around the reason why Bablo landed in prison, his descent to become a dreaded goon, his sweet-amer link with his mother (Monika Panwar) and his romance with Rinku (Vedika Pinto). This emotional rope shot forms the intrigue of Nishaanchi. But that’s not it, there is more in this film.
What works
The cast of Nishaanchi is its greatest triumph. Each actor feels made to measure for his part, bringing depth to an otherwise familiar story. Credit also goes to the background score, which amplifies key moments and leaves a lasting impact.
The dialogues are worthy of whistling, which gives the public memorable lines to bring home. Another refreshing change is music; Instead of shocking object numbers, the songs here tell the story, their words resonating with pain, love and rebellion. Kashyap also weaves a symbolism that subtly puts societal norms to the question, encouraging you to think long after the credits.
What doesn’t work
The second half of Nishaanchi drags considerably. Beyond two well-executed scenes which are attached to the first half, the rest feels stretched and useless. A net assembly could easily have sank 30 to 35 minutes without losing gas.
The post-key sequence, which teases Nishaanchi 2, ends up giving too much. Kashyap’s attempt to recreate the Wasseypur formula gangs works against the film, making certain sequences predictable and reducing their impact.
A Still of the film, Nishaanchi:
Performance
Aaishvary Thackeray makes a striking start. His representation of Babloo, with a convincing Kanpuriya accent, is raw but charming. With the presence on the screen, versatility and confidence, it is firmly established as a new talent to look at.
Monika Panwar like Manjiri is the soul of Nishaanchi. With each framework, it offers a powerful performance that cements its place among the most beautiful female actors of its generation. Its intensity recalls Richa Chadha in Gangs of Wasseypur.
Vineet Kumar Singh as a jabardast wrestler is heartbreaking. His pain and helplessness infiltrate through the screen and stay with you.
Vedika Pinto as Rinku takes the best party from its limited role, leaving a brand with its charm and conviction.
Kumud Mishra as Ambika Prasad plays the villain so effectively that you cannot help but despise him.
Zeeshan Ayub, as an inspector, offers capable support.
Final verdict
Nishaanchi can trip in his narration and his runtime, but he rises on the strength of his distribution. Aaishvary Thackeray appears as a star in the country, while Monika Panwar still proves the reason why she is one of the most convincing actors of her generation.
You can enter the theater as a fan of Anurag Kashyap, but you will be released as a cheerleader for Aaishvary Thackeray and Monika Panwar. Just be prepared, the duration of the film, 177 minutes, seems much longer than it should. Nishaanchi arrived in theaters on September 19, 2025.
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