“Srikanth” isn’t your run-of-the-mill biopic. It delves into the true story of Srikanth Bolla (Rajkummar Rao), a man born with visual impairments who defies societal expectations and inner demons to become a successful entrepreneur. The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of Srikanth’s unwavering determination and the powerful support system that fuels his journey. Rao delivers a powerful performance, capturing the complexities of Srikanth’s internal battles and triumphs with raw honesty.
The first half of the film is a masterclass in resilience. We witness Srikanth’s fight against prejudice, his burning desire to excel in academics, and his struggle against an education system ill-equipped for those with disabilities. Jyothika shines as Devika, Srikanth’s dedicated teacher and mentor, a beacon of unwavering support. Sharad Kelkar offers a grounded performance as Ravi Mantha, a friend and business partner who becomes another pillar of strength. Their portrayals beautifully illustrate the transformative power of guidance and belief in shaping one’s destiny.
However, the narrative’s momentum stumbles in the second half. The initial spark that showcased Srikanth’s defiance against limitations and societal norms starts to simmer down. The biopic adopts a more predictable formula, leading to pacing issues that occasionally disrupt the flow. The background score, while attempting to be impactful, can clash with the emotional tenor of certain scenes. Alaya F brings charm to the role of Swathi, Srikanth’s love interest, but her character’s development feels rushed, leaving a sense of missed potential for a deeper exploration of their relationship.
Despite these shortcomings, “Srikanth” boasts several redeeming qualities. The film displays meticulous attention to detail, from the way textbooks are presented in Braille to the textured portrayal of Srikanth’s world. More importantly, the biopic doesn’t shy away from depicting Srikanth’s flaws. It delves into his moments of arrogance and negativity, making his eventual success feel all the more relatable and earned. This honest portrayal adds depth to the character and elevates the film above a mere hagiography.
“Srikanth” is a film that grapples with formula but ultimately wins through grit and heart. Rao’s powerful performance and the core message of resilience against adversity shine through. While the film stumbles in its execution during the latter half, it remains an inspiring watch that offers a glimpse into the remarkable life of Srikanth Bolla and the undeniable power of the human spirit to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
