Meghna Gulzar’s upcoming film Daayra is set to hit theaters in less than 24 hours. Following preview screenings held in Delhi and Mumbai, the movie has drawn enthusiastic early reactions. This marks the first time Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran have appeared together on screen, with audiences praising their collaborative pairing.
Daayra is an intense investigative thriller drawn from true incidents. The narrative explores a complex criminal case through dual lenses, examining emotions, varied perceptions, and the multiple facets of truth.
Daayra Early Response
For anyone undecided about purchasing tickets, early viewer feedback offers clear guidance. Critics reviewing the movie have lauded it as thought-provoking while praising the lead performances, with some observers categorizing them among the strongest female characters seen recently.
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One review stated, “Meghna Gulzar- The Director is back with yet another film that will leave you shocked & numb for sure after the climax. This is peak writing- peak direction and Peak Class Cinema.
The 1st half is layered and starts on a SLOW note, but that is the whole point because it serves the PLOT and builds the momentum that just explodes in the 2nd HALF. The Pre-Climax Sequence and the entire block of the 2nd half where she exposes the ENTIRE SYSTEM is WHAT CINEMA is for me. You will see, you will witness, you want to say.”
Another reviewer noted, “Right vs wrong is easy. But when two different ideas of what is “right” collide, certainty becomes a little harder – two people standing on opposite sides, both convinced they are doing the right thing.
That uncomfortable space is where Daayra sits. The first half is slow-paced, yes, but the film finds its momentum in the second. Perhaps this is also a film that wants you to sit with its questions rather than rush towards its answers.
And that question stays with you – When everyone believes they’re on the right side, where exactly is the #Daayra?”
A further review shared, “OG #Prithviraj is back. After a Long phase of disapointments, he is back with a bang. This time he doesn’t flex his muscles but exhibits a colossal acting with emotional and expressiveness. #KareenaKapoor takes a cakewalk with her neat performance.
The film starts on a slightly slow pace but gradually gains momentum. Well this isn’t a mere thriller, but keeps hitting you emotionally in many places, especially in climax and the last shot in particular.”
Daayra’s X Factor
Kareena Kapoor Khan, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Meghna Gulzar have led the promotional campaign, speaking passionately about the project and the reasons they united for it. Their statements reflect strong confidence in the narrative and in Meghna’s directorial perspective. The director has built a reputation for handling sensitive real-life subjects through earlier works such as Raazi, Talvar, and Sam Bahadur, and she consistently draws memorable, career-defining performances from actors like Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal.
Prithviraj Sukumaran, recognized as both a talented filmmaker and a leading national actor, portrays a police officer who chooses to enforce justice on his own terms. In contrast, Kareena plays a composed officer dedicated to adhering to official protocols. Their dynamics formed an intriguing casting choice from the promotional trailers onward. Initial responses also highlight strong contributions from the supporting cast, particularly Kshitee Jog during emotionally demanding sequences.
Presented by Junglee Music, an imprint of Times Music, Daayra is produced by Junglee Pictures alongside Dr. Jayantilal Gada of Pen Studios, with distribution handled by Pen Marudhar.
Daayra arrives in cinemas on 18th September 2026.
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