Film Review: Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti – A Riveting Tribute to NSG Bravery and National Resilience

Rating: ★★★★½

Duration: 110 mins

Director: Ken Ghosh | Writers: William Borthwick, Simon Fantauzzo

Cast: Akshaye Khanna, Manjari Fadnnis, Gautam Rode, Kallirroi Tziafeta, Parvin Dabas, Vivek Dahiya

From battlefield heroics to shadowy counter-terror operations, Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti immerses us in the world of India’s elite National Security Guard (NSG) commandos — a world of grit, sacrifice, and unfaltering courage. This gripping action-drama by Zee Studios is based on the real-life 2002 Akshardham Temple terror attack that left the nation shaken and forever changed.

Story & Screenplay

Set against the backdrop of one of India’s deadliest terror strikes, the film reconstructs the horrific September 2002 attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat, where over 30 innocent lives were lost and more than 80 were injured. As panic and chaos engulf the temple, a battalion of NSG commandos steps in to reclaim control, rescue hostages, and neutralize the threat — all while risking their own lives.

But the film doesn’t stop at the rescue operation. Running parallel is a shadowy subplot detailing the arrest of a key terrorist leader, an event that allegedly triggered the brutal retaliation. The narrative is layered with clever twists and edge-of-the-seat turns that keep the tension alive throughout. With intermittent lighter moments to balance the intensity, the story delves into the psyche of both the saviours and the perpetrators.

The screenplay is tight and pacy, providing a comprehensive view of the NSG’s strategic brilliance. Dialogues are impactful, especially in scenes showcasing the commandos’ mental and physical resilience.

Performances

Akshaye Khanna makes a powerful return to uniformed roles as the lead NSG officer. While his performance could have benefited from more emotional depth in certain scenes, his overall portrayal is commanding and earnest. Gautam Rode stands out with a measured and intense performance, while Manjari Fadnnis and Parvin Dabas offer competent support, albeit with limited screen time. Abhimanyu Singh, a familiar face in the State of Siege series, portrays the antagonist with menacing calm, though his terror-inducing presence could’ve been dialed up.

Direction & Cinematography

Director Ken Ghosh delivers a commendable job in recreating a real-life terror scenario with sensitivity and precision. His creative use of camera angles — reminiscent at times of first-person shooter games — adds a unique visual flair to the combat sequences. The action scenes, while not overly abundant, are executed with finesse. The clever integration of green screens and Chroma Key effects enhances the tension, giving certain scenes a near-documentary realism.

Final Verdict

Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti is more than just a film — it's a homage to the unsung heroes of the NSG, whose valor in the face of terror safeguarded countless lives. Based on true events that shook the entire nation, the film manages to be both thrilling and emotionally resonant. It honors the spirit of duty, sacrifice, and the indomitable courage of India's commandos.

While some might wish the real names of the temple and characters were retained to heighten authenticity, the essence of the narrative remains faithful to the tragic and heroic events of 2002. And just when the dust settles, a subtle hint at the end teases the possibility of a sequel — suggesting that this mission may have only just begun.

If you were captivated by URI, then Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti deserves a spot on your must-watch list. With its intense storytelling, emotional depth, and a reminder of real-life heroism, this film earns a solid 4.5 stars.