Introduction

The world of showbiz has witnessed its fair share of biopics featuring celebrities’ remarkable life stories. However, the latest addition to this genre, “UT 69,” has taken a rather unconventional turn. Businessman Raj Kundra, more famous as the spouse of actress Shilpa Shetty, steps into the spotlight as he plays himself in this dramatic retelling of his time as an undertrial in prison. Directed by Shahnawaz Ali, the film explores Kundra’s harrowing 63-day ordeal at Arthur Road Jail, following his alleged involvement in a pornography scandal in 2021. Yet, as viewers journey through the 117 minutes of this gritty jail drama, one question looms large: What, exactly, is the purpose of this film?

A Missed Opportunity

Expectations might lead us to believe that the film would address Kundra’s legal case, seek to clear his name, or at least shed light on the circumstances that led to his imprisonment. However, “UT 69” surprisingly skirts around the case, and the likely reason behind this omission is the matter’s subjudice status. This leaves the audience somewhat adrift, unsure of why they are watching a nearly two-hour film primarily focused on one man’s prison experience.

The Film’s Focus

“UT 69” paints a vivid picture of the harsh and grim reality of life inside a jail. It immerses viewers in the overcrowded barracks, where inmates endure deplorable living conditions. While this subject matter holds the potential to be deeply thought-provoking, the film’s focus on one individual’s journey through incarceration feels limiting.

Kundra’s Days Behind Bars

Raj Kundra’s celebrity status piques the curiosity of viewers, leading them to wonder if stars are treated differently in prison. “UT 69” seizes this opportunity to debunk such misconceptions, portraying Kundra’s arduous experiences—sleeping on the floor amidst 245 other inmates in a space meant for only 46 people and consuming unappetizing and hard-to-digest prison food. Unfortunately, the film’s relentless emphasis on these themes includes numerous cringe-worthy toilet scenes, which do little to enrich the narrative and might even repel the audience.

A Glimpse into Harsh Realities

“UT 69” does deserve credit for its sincere attempt to shed light on the dismal conditions of Indian jails and the lack of basic amenities for inmates. The film effectively captures Kundra’s pain, anguish, and helplessness. It also presents the bonds he forms with fellow inmates, offering a glimpse into the solace found in their camaraderie. Heartfelt scenes featuring Kundra’s weekly calls with his wife, Shilpa Shetty, reveal the emotional toll of their separation. The celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi by the inmates stands out as one of the movie’s most touching and emotionally resonant moments.

Kundra’s Performance

In his debut as an actor, Raj Kundra delivers a commendable performance marked by balance and authenticity. He successfully conveys the horror of his prison experience, ensuring his portrayal feels genuine. The supporting cast, including fellow inmates and prison staff, also deliver strong performances, making the film, despite its aimlessness, watchable.

A Lack of Clarity

As the film draws to a close, it attempts to convey its underlying message: Kundra’s post-bail efforts to inform the Human Rights Commission about prison conditions and his establishment of a free legal aid team for underprivileged families with incarcerated members. However, this effort to provide a clear purpose for the film arrives rather belatedly.

Final Thoughts

“UT 69” essentially serves as a documentation of Raj Kundra’s time in jail and the dire conditions of the prison. Yet, it falls short in providing a clear plot or a story that genuinely engages the audience. For a more profound exploration of the state of Indian prisons, one might find a documentary to be a more suitable choice. While the film does have its moments, its primary focus on Kundra’s personal experience in jail, along with the excessive use of crude humor, leaves viewers pondering the purpose of this unusual cinematic endeavor.