In a thrilling announcement that has set cinephiles abuzz, director Anurag Kashyap revealed that his modern classic, Gangs of Wasseypur, is set to re-release in theatres on August 30. This iconic two-part saga, originally released in 2012, was a groundbreaking film that delved into the intergenerational enmity ensnaring the coal mafia of Wasseypur, a small town near Dhanbad in Jharkhand.
When it first graced the screens, Gangs of Wasseypur not only garnered critical acclaim but also achieved commercial success. Led by the seasoned Manoj Bajpayee, the film also featured budding talents who would go on to become some of Bollywood’s most respected actors – including Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadha, Huma Qureshi, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, and Jaideep Ahlawat.
The update about the much-anticipated re-release was shared by Kashyap on his official Instagram page. The film will be available for theatrical viewing from August 30 to September 5, offering audiences a rare chance to experience the grandeur of this cinematic masterpiece on the big screen once more.
The Gangs of Wasseypur series tells the intense and convoluted story of a family embroiled in crime, extortion, and murder, spanning three generations. The extensive narrative arc takes the audience through an enthralling journey filled with richly developed characters and intricate plotlines centered around revenge and power struggles within the notorious coal mafia.
Initially co-written by Kashyap and Zeishan Quadri, the film first hit the screens on June 22, 2012, with the second part following closely on August 8 of the same year. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Sneha Khanwalkar and Piyush Mishra, with lyrics penned by Mishra and Varun Grover, became an instant hit and added significant depth to the storytelling, further establishing it as a cultural phenomenon.
Gangs of Wasseypur’s prestige isn’t just confined to Indian shores. The film was screened in its entirety at the 2012 Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and received overwhelming responses at numerous international film festivals. This feat further cemented its status as a modern classic and one of the very few Hindi-language films to achieve such global recognition.
This film’s re-release not only provides an opportunity for longtime fans to relive the drama and intensity but also allows a new generation of viewers to experience it for the first time.
. Film critics and fans alike have praised it for its raw portrayal of the Indian hinterland, realistic character arcs, and poignant social commentary, making it a must-watch.
Gangs of Wasseypur is lauded for its intricate storytelling and the way it seamlessly blends individual character arcs with the overarching narrative. Manoj Bajpayee’s performance as Sardar Khan is often heralded as one of his finest, with the actor bringing a complex blend of ruthlessness and vulnerability to his role. Nawazuddin Siddiqui, in particular, received widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Faisal Khan, a character that marked his ascent in Bollywood.
Pankaj Tripathi, now considered one of India’s finest actors, credited the movie for bringing him the recognition he long deserved. His menacing portrayal in the film continues to be a benchmark for villainous roles in Indian cinema. Meanwhile, Richa Chadha’s performance as Nagma Khatoon established her as one of the most versatile actresses in the industry.
Even as the film takes us through the brutal and harsh realities of crime and retribution, its humor and eloquence in dialogues bring a balanced narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The cultural and social fabric of Wasseypur is depicted with striking authenticity, making it a valuable piece of cinema that delves deep into the roots of revenge and power dynamics.
The soundtrack, particularly memorable for its innovative composition, played a significant role in the film’s storytelling. Songs like ‘Jiya Ho Bihar Ke Lala’ and ‘Hunter’ not only became chartbusters but also contributed to character development, enhancing the narrative experience significantly.
Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur is more than just a film; it’s an experience, a raw and unfiltered look into the dark underbelly of Indian society, marinated with exceptional performances and a powerful storyline. As the film makes its grand re-entry into theatres, it is poised to captivate audiences just as it did over a decade ago, reaffirming its status as a timeless classic in the annals of Indian cinema.
