Years after its release, Atul Sabharwal’s Aurangzeb continues to evoke discussions, particularly concerning Rishi Kapoor’s compelling performance as a morally ambiguous police officer. The film, a modern crime thriller set against the backdrop of Gurgaon’s burgeoning real estate sector, delves into themes of power, familial loyalty, and corruption.
A Tale of Dualities and Deceit
Released on 17 May 2013 under the Yash Raj Films banner, Aurangzeb features Arjun Kapoor in a dual role as twin brothers Ajay and Vishal, separated at birth and raised on opposing sides of the law. The narrative unfolds as Vishal is coerced by law enforcement to impersonate his gangster twin, Ajay, infiltrating the criminal empire of their estranged father, Yashvardhan Singh (portrayed by Jackie Shroff).
The film’s title draws inspiration from the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, known for prioritising power over familial bonds. This thematic parallel underscores the characters’ internal conflicts and the overarching narrative of ambition superseding kinship.
Rishi Kapoor’s Complex Antagonist
Rishi Kapoor’s portrayal of DCP Ravikant Phogat stands out as a masterclass in embodying a character steeped in moral ambiguity. As a high-ranking officer entangled in corruption, Kapoor eschews overt villainy, opting instead for a performance that reveals the character’s nefarious intentions through subtlety and restraint.
In a candid reflection on his role, Kapoor remarked:
“I am not trying to act evil. My character’s thinking is evil. He is willing to go to any lengths to achieve his ambitions. I try to enter the thought processes of my grey characters.”
— Rishi Kapoor
His nuanced performance earned him the IIFA Award for Best Performance in a Negative Role in 2014.
Ensemble Cast and Performances
The film boasts a robust ensemble cast:
- Arjun Kapoor adeptly differentiates between the assertive Ajay and the contemplative Vishal, showcasing his versatility early in his career.
- Prithviraj Sukumaran, as ACP Arya Phogat, delivers a restrained yet impactful performance, serving as the narrative’s moral compass.
- Jackie Shroff portrays Yashvardhan Singh with gravitas, embodying a patriarch whose empire is built on illicit dealings.
- Supporting roles by Amrita Singh, Tanvi Azmi, Swara Bhaskar, and Sasheh Agha add depth to the intricate storyline.
Critical Reception
Upon release, Aurangzeb received a spectrum of reviews:
- The Times of India awarded it 3.5/5 stars, praising its exploration of complex familial and moral dynamics.
- Filmfare highlighted the film’s ambitious narrative but noted inconsistencies in pacing and character development.
- Koimoi commended the performances, particularly Kapoor’s, but critiqued the film’s editing and length.
Box Office Performance
Despite its star-studded cast and production backing, Aurangzeb underperformed commercially:
Domestic Box Office Collection
| Period | Collection (₹ Crore) |
| Opening Day | 3.92 |
| Opening Weekend | 12.86 |
| End of Week 1 | 19.6 |
| Lifetime Collection | 22.35 |
Worldwide Gross
| Region | Gross Collection (₹ Crore) |
| India (Gross) | 31.04 |
| Overseas | 4.37 |
| Total | 35.41 |
Source: Bollywood Hungama
The film’s performance was deemed below expectations, with trade analysts categorising it as a box office disappointment.
Legacy and Reflection
While Aurangzeb may not have achieved commercial success, its exploration of ethical dilemmas within familial and institutional structures offers a thought-provoking cinematic experience. Rishi Kapoor’s portrayal of DCP Phogat remains a testament to his ability to infuse complexity into characters that defy conventional moral categorisations.
As audiences revisit the film, its themes of ambition, identity, and the cost of power continue to resonate, solidifying Aurangzeb‘s place in discussions of nuanced storytelling in Indian cinema.