Raajneeti (2010)
A sweeping Indian political epic where power, betrayal, and moral compromise collide in the ruthless arena of electoral democracy.
Raajneeti - Movie Information
- Original Title: Raajneeti
- Release Year: 2010
- Directed by: Prakash Jha
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Thriller
- Runtime: 2h 47m
- Original Language: Hindi
- Spoken Languages: Hindi
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 4, 2010 (United Kingdom - 12A), June 4, 2010 (India - UA)
- Alternative Titles: มายาการเมือง (TH)
- Production Companies: UTV Motion Pictures, Walkwater Media, Prakash Jha Productions
- Production Countries: India
Raajneeti - Plot
It is the story of a fiercely fought election campaign, where money power and corruption are the accepted norms, and where treachery and manipulation are routinely used weapons. As the personal drama of these conflict-ridden characters unfolds against this gritty backdrop, love and friendship become mere baits, and relationships get sacrificed at the altar of political alignments. The darkness that rises from their souls threatens to envelope all that they hold precious. Until eventually, in the crescendo of increasing violence, the line between good and evil blurs, making it impossible to distinguish heroes from villains. Raajneeti is the story of Indian democracy. And its ugly underside. It is about politics. And beyond.
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Raajneeti - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Prakash Jha
Main Cast
- Ajay Devgn
- Ranbir Kapoor
- Manoj Bajpayee
- Katrina Kaif
- Arjun Rampal
- Nana Patekar
- Naseeruddin Shah
- Sarah Thompson
- Darshan Jariwala
- Shruti Seth
Writers
- Prakash Jha
- Anjum Rajabali
Producers
- Prakash Jha
Raajneeti - FAQs
Where can you watch Raajneeti online?
Raajneeti is available to stream on several platforms in the US. You can check JustWatch for the most up-to-date streaming, rental, and purchase options available in your region, as platform availability may change over time.
Is Raajneeti based on the Mahabharata?
Yes, Raajneeti draws heavily from the Mahabharata. Director Prakash Jha transposed the epic's power struggles, fraternal rivalries, and moral ambiguities into the world of contemporary Indian electoral politics, creating clear parallels between the film's characters and the ancient epic's central figures.
Who are the main actors in Raajneeti?
Raajneeti features an ensemble cast led by Ranbir Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Manoj Bajpayee, Katrina Kaif, Arjun Rampal, Nana Patekar, and Naseeruddin Shah. The film also stars Sarah Thompson, Darshan Jariwala, and Shruti Seth in supporting roles.
What is Raajneeti about?
Raajneeti follows a brutal election campaign in India where corruption, treachery, and manipulation are standard tools. As rival factions within a political family clash, love and loyalty are sacrificed for power, and the boundary between heroes and villains dissolves in escalating violence.
Who directed Raajneeti?
Raajneeti was directed by Prakash Jha, a filmmaker renowned for politically charged Indian cinema. Jha also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Anjum Rajabali and served as the film's producer through his production banner, Prakash Jha Productions.
When was Raajneeti released?
Raajneeti was released on June 4, 2010, simultaneously in India (rated UA) and the United Kingdom (rated 12A). The film became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood productions of that year, earning widespread attention for its political drama and star-studded cast.
How long is the film Raajneeti?
Raajneeti has a runtime of 2 hours and 47 minutes (167 minutes). The film's extended length allows director Prakash Jha to develop its large ensemble cast and intricately layered political narrative across multiple competing factions and storylines.
Did Raajneeti receive positive reviews from critics?
Raajneeti was largely well-received by critics, who praised its ambitious scope, strong performances — particularly from Manoj Bajpayee and Nana Patekar — and Prakash Jha's confident direction. The film was commended for its unflinching portrayal of Indian political culture and its Mahabharata-inspired narrative structure.
More About Raajneeti
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