“Bheed” is a movie that tells a powerful story about the struggles of migrant workers during the 2020 lockdown in India. Inspired by Satyajit Ray’s classic film “Pather Panchali,” director Anubhav Sinha chose to film “Bheed” in black and white to highlight the harsh realities faced by these workers. The movie shows how they were forced to walk back to their villages when the government imposed a lockdown to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The film not only highlights the suffering of these workers but also addresses the deep divides based on religion, race, and caste that still exist in India. Anubhav Sinha presents the story without exaggeration or melodrama, showing events as they truly happen in real life. This approach encourages viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society that we often ignore.
Set in a rural area on the border of two states in North India, the film depicts a police officer named Surya, played by Rajkummar Rao. He is given the task of managing a roadblock but struggles with feelings of inferiority due to his low caste background. Surya is in love with a doctor, played by Bhumi Pednekar, but fears the consequences of marrying her because she belongs to a higher caste. As the roadblock becomes a gathering point for many people trying to travel, the film captures the chaos and challenges they face during this difficult time.
