Baramulla Review: Tulips, Trauma, and Terror Unravel in Netflix Film

Netflix’s latest film, “Baramulla,” explores the complex interplay of tulips, trauma, and terror in Kashmir. Set against a backdrop of political unrest, this haunting narrative presents a chilling reflection on the struggles faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community.

Plot Overview

“Baramulla,” directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale and co-written by Jambhale and Aditya Dhar, delves into the pressing issues of militancy in the Valley. With a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes, the film balances elements of reality, psychology, and the supernatural. However, its attempt to intertwine these themes occasionally leads to a convoluted climax.

Character Dynamics

• DSP Ridwan Shafi Sayyed: Played by Manav Kaul, Ridwan is a police officer newly assigned to Baramulla.
• Family Struggles: Ridwan’s family, including his wife Gulnaar, daughter Noorie, and son Ayaan, adapts to their new home amidst ongoing tensions.
• Personal Trauma: Ridwan’s character grapples with PTSD, impacting his family dynamics and interactions.

The Sayyed family faces various internal conflicts, characterized by everyday bickering and misunderstandings. Gulnaar expresses her emotions through a poetry blog, while Ayaan, the caring younger brother, searches for companionship in a world that feels cold and uninviting. The family’s interactions reveal a nuanced portrayal of their experiences in a war-torn region.

Setting and Symbolism

The film often employs the white tulip as a significant symbol. Unlike the romanticized portrayal of tulips in Bollywood, the tulips in “Baramulla” evoke feelings of dread. This stark contrast invites viewers to reconsider the aesthetics of Kashmir, especially when enveloped in snow and void of color.

The Haunting Atmosphere

The Sayyed family’s new home, though superficially renovated, harbors lingering remnants of its past, exemplified by creaking floors and hidden trapdoors. These physical elements contribute to a haunting atmosphere that aligns with the emotional trauma experienced by the characters. As the story unfolds, supernatural elements gradually reveal themselves, adding another layer of complexity.

Conclusion

While “Baramulla” has its flaws, it offers a poignant exploration of family and identity amid Kashmir’s tumultuous history. The film serves as a sensitive narrative, accentuating the shared experiences of Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims, both living and departed. Viewers are left contemplating the haunting realities of the Valley, illustrating that the true horror lies not in supernatural entities, but in the scars of trauma.