Nukkad Naatak Review: A Heartfelt Ode To Street Theatre And Social Justice

Directed by Tanmaya Shekhar, Nukkad Naatak has fought its way from street promotions to a limited theatrical release and finally to Netflix. The film, starring Molshri Singh and Shivang Rajpal, captures the essence of street theatre while addressing themes of social justice and identity.

Storyline And Themes

The plot follows Molshri, who runs a college street theatre group, and Shivang, a closeted gay student. After being expelled for helping a poor canteen worker, they are tasked with enrolling five slum children into school to regain admission. The narrative explores education rights, slum life, LGBTQ struggles, and inequality, weaving them into a grassroots performance style.

Performances And Direction

Molshri Singh and Shivang Rajpal deliver natural, theatre-inspired performances that critics say feel authentic and unpolished in the best way. Nirmala Hazra shines as Chhoti, a slum child clutching her textbooks like a lifeline. Director Tanmaya Shekhar’s sincerity and passion elevate the film, even when the narrative occasionally falters.

Critical Reception

Reviews highlight the film’s raw honesty, sincerity, and socially driven storytelling. While some critics note uneven pacing and underdeveloped subplots, most agree that its heartfelt approach and grassroots energy make it a memorable watch. The climax, which fully embraces the power of street theatre, leaves a lasting impression.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Directed by Tanmaya Shekhar, starring Molshri Singh and Shivang Rajpal

•⁠  ⁠Focuses on education inequality, LGBTQ identity, and grassroots activism

•⁠  ⁠Authentic performances rooted in theatre backgrounds

•⁠  ⁠Nirmala Hazra praised for her role as Chhoti

•⁠  ⁠Streaming now on Netflix after limited theatrical release

Sources: India Today NE, Scroll.in, Hindustan Times