"Udaipur Files," a film inspired by the tragic murder of Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur in 2022, has finally been released in theaters across India on August 8, 2025, after facing numerous delays and legal challenges. The film’s release has been highly anticipated, especially by Kanhaiya Lal’s family, who see it as a tribute to him and a means to raise awareness about terrorism.
Kanhaiya Lal was brutally murdered in his shop in Udaipur on June 28, 2022, by two men who claimed responsibility for the act in a video, citing his alleged support for a social media post in favor of former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. The incident sparked national outrage and highlighted concerns about radicalization and communal violence.
Yash Sahu, Kanhaiya Lal’s son, has been actively promoting the film and urging people to watch it. He emphasized that "Udaipur Files" is not against any religion or community but aims to expose the truth about the events leading to his father's murder and to raise awareness about the roots of terrorism in the country. "This is not just a movie. This is our truth. It shows exactly how my father was killed. People should know what really happened," Yash stated.
Adding a poignant touch, Yash revealed that a seat would be reserved in the theatre for his father's soul, with his photo placed on it. He also mentioned that his mother, still deeply affected by the tragedy, would be unable to watch the film. Kanhaiya Lal's wife, Jasoda Sahu, expressed that the film is a true reflection of their family's pain and struggle, appealing to the country to watch it.
The release of "Udaipur Files" was initially stalled due to legal petitions citing concerns about communal harmony. The Delhi High Court had imposed a stay on the film's release, which was originally scheduled for July 11, 2025. However, after a prolonged legal battle, the Supreme Court cleared the way for its release. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) also dismissed revision petitions challenging the film's certification, requiring 55 cuts and additional voluntary edits.
On the day of the film's release, screenings were held across 4,500 cinemas in India, including in Udaipur. Yash and Tarun Teli, Kanhaiya Lal's sons, attended a screening in Udaipur, holding their father's picture. A seat was kept vacant with Kanhaiya Lal's photograph as a tribute. Videos showed the brothers visibly moved, shedding tears during the film's most heart-wrenching scenes.
Yash Sahu expressed his disappointment that the criminals responsible for his father's murder have not yet been punished, even with video evidence available. He hopes that the film will garner support for their fight for justice and ensure that the accused receive the appropriate punishment. "For three years, we have been fighting for justice, but we have not received it yet. We hope the people of India will support us to ensure that the accused are punished swiftly," he stated.
"Udaipur Files" is directed by Bharat S. Shrinate and features Vijay Raaz in a prominent role. The film aims to depict the events surrounding Kanhaiya Lal's murder, the motivations of the accused, and the aftermath that deeply affected the city and the nation.
