The film constructs its world gingerly, revealing each detail in an organic manner. Twenty-three-year-old Raghav is on his way to meet a woman as part of some seedy arrangement. However, he is in for the most horrifying shock when he finds his fate hanging between a life of ruin, or eternal damnation in a purgatory consumed by only lust. The decision of this outcome is in the hands of the eponymous Gumraaj, the younger brother of Yamraj, whose raison d'etre is to punish and control a humankind gone astray. 

While Raghav’s life may be of youth, it is not devoid of darkness, licentiousness, and indulgence dictated by misogyny, unrestricted lust, and objectification of women. By presenting a story that weaves in elements of horror, thrill, and fantasy, the film presents a social commentary on all of these issues. Care is taken to ensure it does not become an overbearing morality tale, instead remaining engaging and thoughtful throughout for the viewer. Consequently, the film’s world-building and storytelling become its most notable strengths. The performances, as well as the chemistry between the two primary characters, further support the endeavor. 

 

The end result loses some points when it comes to the seamlessness of the edit, but it is a small characteristic, easy to overlook in the face of the realm that the film conjures. The developments remain unexpected and meaningul, forever sustaining and maintaining the motivations of its characters as well as the plot that, in turn, keep pushing the film forward.

Gumraaj | Short Film Nominee

The film opens with a young news reporter following up on a recent case of dacoity and murder. She approaches the deceased’s wife, a grocer, who has witnessed the tragic event, and convinces her to give an interview on camera. Meanwhile at a nearby auto stand, we find glimpses of a jovial, autorickshaw driver. 
The reporter finishes her interview and boards his auto. As they journey through the busy streets of Delhi, a friendly conversation strikes between the two. The auto driver shares his love and passion for Hollywood classics, until a mysterious phone call changes his mood to a darker one. The auto driver, now despondent, narrates the story of how his teenage daughter was abducted and trafficked by none other than her beloved English teacher. He recounts the horrors of hopelessly scouring through the city, including repeated police visits, with no beneficial outcome.  
Inspired by true events, the film addresses the issue of child trafficking in the Indian subcontinent which has been increasing at an alarming rate. It discloses the cruel nature of such crimes and calls for the attention of concerned authorities for the protection of the innocent.

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