Gulaal(2009)
Gulaal is a 2009 Indian Hindi-language political drama film directed by Anurag Kashyap. It stars Raj Singh Chaudhary, Kay Kay Menon, and Piyush Mishra in lead roles. The story follows a law student who becomes entangled in college politics and a violent plot to revive a Rajput kingdom. Set in the fictional town of Rajpur, Rajasthan, the film explores themes of power, betrayal, and the illusion of revolution. Gulaal received critical acclaim for its raw storytelling, strong performances, and haunting music. It was nominated for several awards and has since become a cult classic. The film was released on March 13, 2009.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube, ZEE5
- Theatrical Release
- 13 March 2009
- Director
- Anurag Kashyap
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 20m
- Rating
- 7.4/10
Storyline
A shy law student named Dilip Singh is pushed into a college election and wins. He soon discovers that the election is a front for a violent conspiracy. Powerful men want to use him to start a revolution and bring back a lost kingdom. Dilip must decide if he will become a pawn or fight back.
“The color of blood. The color of revolution.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Gulaal
Cast reunions in this film: Anurag Kashyap & Rajeev Ravi (7 films together), Anurag Kashyap & Kay Kay Menon (4 films together), Piyush Mishra & Kay Kay Menon (3 films together), Abhimanyu Singh & Mukesh Bhatt (2 films together), Mahie Gill & Kay Kay Menon (2 films together), and Mahie Gill & Deepak Dobriyal (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Gulaal' refers to the red powder used in Holi, symbolizing blood and violence in the story.
- Actor Kay Kay Menon improvised many of his intense scenes, including his famous courtroom monologue.
- The movie was shot in just 28 days, mostly in Rajasthan, to keep the budget low.
- Director Anurag Kashyap said the story was inspired by real student politics and regional movements in India.
- The soundtrack features a rare song by folk singer Ila Arun, who also has a cameo in the film.
- It was initially rejected by several producers for being too dark and politically sensitive.
- Actor Piyush Mishra, who composed the music, also played a key role as a poet in the film.