Bollywood’s affinity for police dramas is nothing new, with a plethora of titles ranging from high-octane action blockbusters to intense mysteries on streaming platforms. However, amidst this saturated genre, an upcoming film is set to stand out with its unique and authentic narrative—’The Narmada Story’, featuring a real-life Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, Simala Prasad, in a noteworthy on-screen appearance after a considerable hiatus.
Currently serving as the Superintendent of Police in Jabalpur, Simala Prasad wrapped up the shooting of ‘The Narmada Story’, a project boasting an ensemble of established Bollywood talents including Raghubir Yadav, Mukesh Tiwari, Anjali Patil, and Ishtiyak Khan. The helm of the film is managed by Zaigham Imam, with whom Simala has previously worked in critically acclaimed films like ‘Alif’ and ‘Nakkash’.
The creative team behind ‘The Narmada Story’ is committed to delivering a suspenseful and gripping thriller that stays true to the real-life scenarios faced by the police force—challenging the conventional depiction commonly portrayed in mainstream Bollywood productions. Director Zaigham Imam emphasizes the film’s dedication to realism, especially in illustrating the roles and struggles of women in law enforcement. The narrative promises to offer a close look at the police department’s daily challenges and eschews the typical trope of exaggerated heroics for a portrait of genuine, relatable struggles.
Simala Prasad, who anchors the film with her acumen as an IPS officer, embraces this opportunity to contribute to the broader conversation around policing. She regards her work in ‘The Narmada Story’ as an extension of her commitment to evolve the police department through unconventional and creative methods. Reuniting with fellow artists from her birth state of Madhya Pradesh, she expresses her pride in working alongside such notable figures. Her belief in the film’s capacity to serve as an eye-opener is a testament to its expected impact.
Tracing back to her roots, Simala Prasad belongs to the 2010 batch of the IPS. Her lineage includes a civil servant father, Dr. Bhagirath Prasad, a 1975 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. Born in 1980 in Madhya Pradesh, Simala’s educational journey commenced at St. Joseph Co-ed School in Bhopal and proceeded to a degree in commerce followed by a master’s in sociology from Barkatullah University in the same city.
The civil services were not part of Simala’s initial career vision, yet a spontaneous decision led her to pursue and successfully clear the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MP PSC) examination, securing her position as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). Not one to rest on her laurels, Simala aimed higher, tackling the formidable Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Exam (CSE)—a feat she achieved in her first attempt and notably without the aid of any formal coaching.
‘The Narmada Story’ is poised not just as a film but as an emblem of Simala Prasad’s multifaceted career and dedication to public service. It is a narrative that aspires to turn the lens on the police force in a manner that fosters respect and understanding, likely resonating with audiences who seek substance along with suspense in their cinematic experiences.
On a final note, the article invites readers to engage with content beyond the screen by prompting the download of the DNA app from the Google Play Store, thereby fostering a community of feedback and discussion around narratives such as ‘The Narmada Story’ and the figures like Simala Prasad who bridge the worlds of civil service and celluloid.
