Lakshmi(2014)
Lakshmi is a 2014 Indian Hindi-language biographical social problem drama film written and directed by Nagesh Kukunoor. The film stars Monali Thakur in the title role, with Ram Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, Shefali Shah, and Vibha Chhibber in supporting roles. The story follows a 13-year-old girl who is kidnapped and forced into prostitution in a brothel run by a local politician. The film is based on true events and depicts the brutal reality of human trafficking in India. It received critical acclaim for its raw and unflinching portrayal of the subject, and Monali Thakur's performance was widely praised. The film won one award and was noted for its social impact. Lakshmi was released in theaters on March 21, 2014.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 21 March 2014
- Director
- Nagesh Kukunoor
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 1h 55m
- Rating
- 6.8/10
Storyline
A 13-year-old girl named Lakshmi is kidnapped from her home and sold into a brothel. She is forced to endure horrific abuse and violence. After a police raid, she is rescued. But the traffickers threaten her to stay silent. Lakshmi must find the courage to testify in court and put them behind bars.
“Are we being human?”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Lakshmi
Cast reunions in this film: Ram Kapoor & Shefali Shah (2 films together), and Nagesh Kukunoor & Elahe Hiptoola (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film's young lead actress, Monali Thakur, was a playback singer before this role and had no prior acting experience.
- Director Nagesh Kukunoor used real locations in Hyderabad's red-light area to shoot, aiming for authenticity.
- The movie was inspired by a true 2005–2008 case from Hyderabad, where a minor girl testified against her traffickers.
- It was shot in just 28 days on a tight budget, with many crew members working for reduced pay.
- The film faced difficulties getting a wide theatrical release in India due to its sensitive subject matter.
- Several supporting actors were non-professionals or first-timers, chosen to reflect the raw reality of the story.
- Despite critical acclaim, the film had a limited box office run but was screened at international human rights festivals.