Nishaanchi Review: Anurag Kashyap’s Colourful Potboiler Impresses but Overindulgence Weighs It Down

Anurag Kashyap’s Nishaanchi delivers a vibrant mix of drama, humour, romance, and action, anchored by strong performances. While entertaining, the film’s nearly three-hour runtime and indulgent storytelling may leave audiences divided. A planned sequel promises more twists, continuing the saga.

Set in Kanpur, 2006, the story introduces twin brothers Babloo and Dabloo, both portrayed convincingly by debutant Aaishvary Thackeray. Alongside accomplice Rinku (Vedika Pinto), they attempt a bank heist, only for Babloo to be apprehended. The narrative then traces the twins’ family history and their entanglement with Ambika Prasad (Kumud Mishra), a man whose actions repeatedly shape their lives.

A standout sequence is the flashback featuring Viineet Kumar Siingh and Monika Panwar. Their chemistry and performances bring a heartfelt dimension to the story, with Siingh portraying the frustrated wrestler Jabardast, and Monika playing the strong-willed Manjari, who balances family responsibilities with independence.

In the second half, Thackeray shines in dual roles: Babloo, inspired by Scarface, embraces a flashy criminal persona, while Dabloo remains soft-spoken, kind, and devoted to their mother. The love interest creates tension that sets the stage for the sequel.

While the plot follows familiar Bollywood tropes—good versus evil twins, family betrayal, and moral dilemmas—the film’s humour and local UP dialect inject freshness. Quirky lines and culturally rooted dialogues, such as the widow’s reflection that “mard aurat ko devi sirf apne faide ke liye banata hai”, add both levity and poignancy.

Kashyap’s attempt to move away from the dark grit of Gangs of Wasseypur results in a colourful, indulgent potboiler, with meta references to Bollywood classics and playful nods to previous works. Vedika Pinto’s Rinku impresses with a bold, captivating presence, complementing the strong female characterization Kashyap has become known for.

Ultimately, Nishaanchi entertains with its humour, layered performances, and vibrant storytelling, but tighter editing may be essential for the next installment.