The Hindi film industry has often mirrored society’s most pressing issues, and Riwaj (2025) takes this responsibility head-on by exploring the complexities of women’s rights, personal freedom, and the fight against injustice. Directed by Manoj Sati, the film is a social drama centered around the controversial practice of instant divorce, popularly known as triple talaq.
Released on 8 March 2025, coinciding with International Women’s Day, Riwaj sends a powerful message about courage and resilience. With seasoned actors like Mithun Chakraborty, Aftab Shivdasani, Myraa Sareen, Anita Raj, and Jaya Prada, the film blends courtroom drama with emotional storytelling, making it both relevant and thought-provoking.
Plot Overview
The story of Riwaj follows Zainab Shaikh (Myraa Sareen), a young woman trapped in an abusive marriage with Hanif Qureshi (Aftab Shivdasani). When Hanif impulsively utters talaq three times, Zainab finds her life shattered overnight. Stripped of her dignity and forced to face societal stigma, she refuses to accept her fate silently.
Determined to seek justice, Zainab takes her case to court. Here enters Ramzan Qadir (Mithun Chakraborty), a wise and empathetic mentor who supports her in the fight against Hanif and his influential family. The legal battle becomes more than just a personal struggle—it evolves into a wider commentary on women’s rights and the need to challenge outdated traditions.
Direction and Screenplay
Director Manoj Sati approaches the subject matter with sensitivity, avoiding unnecessary melodrama while keeping the narrative engaging. The screenplay strikes a balance between emotional depth and legal intricacies, ensuring that audiences connect with Zainab’s plight on both a personal and social level.
The courtroom sequences are handled with intensity, but what stands out most is the way the film humanizes its characters. Instead of reducing them to stereotypes, Sati presents them as flawed individuals shaped by tradition, fear, and power.
Cast Performances
Myraa Sareen as Zainab Shaikh
This film marks a breakthrough performance for Myraa Sareen, who plays the central character with conviction. Her portrayal of Zainab—caught between helplessness and determination—is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Aftab Shivdasani as Hanif Qureshi
In a negative role, Aftab Shivdasani surprises the audience. He convincingly embodies Hanif’s arrogance and patriarchal mindset, making viewers root for Zainab’s victory even more strongly.
Mithun Chakraborty as Ramzan Qadir
The legendary Mithun Chakraborty lends gravitas to the story. As Zainab’s guiding force, he delivers some of the most impactful dialogues of the film. His calm yet firm demeanor perfectly fits the character.
Anita Raj and Jaya Prada
Both veterans add depth to the narrative. Anita Raj as Hanif’s mother reflects traditional beliefs, while Jaya Prada as an NGO activist provides balance by voicing progressive ideals.
Supporting Cast
- Zakir Hussain as lawyer Hidaayat Khan gives a solid performance.
- Adhvik Mahajan, Keeya Khanna, Kumkum Das, and Aman Gupta play their roles effectively, enriching the courtroom and family dynamics.
Themes and Message
At its core, Riwaj is not just about divorce—it is about a woman’s fight for dignity and justice. The film challenges oppressive traditions, sparking dialogue around personal freedom, gender equality, and the law’s role in protecting marginalized voices.
The timing of its release on Women’s Day further underlines its intention to celebrate women’s strength while highlighting the struggles they continue to face.
Cinematography and Music
The visuals complement the film’s tone—muted colors for the courtroom and family conflict scenes, contrasted with brighter frames during Zainab’s hopeful moments. The background score heightens the tension in critical scenes, especially the legal confrontations, without overshadowing the performances.
Songs are minimal but meaningful. A soul-stirring track during Zainab’s turning point leaves a lasting impression.
Strengths
- Strong performances, especially by Myraa Sareen and Mithun Chakraborty.
- Bold subject matter handled with dignity.
- Balanced screenplay with engaging courtroom drama.
- Release timing adds symbolic value.
Weaknesses
- The narrative occasionally feels predictable, as the courtroom drama genre often follows a set pattern.
- Some supporting characters deserved more screen time, especially to explore the family’s perspectives.
Final Verdict
Riwaj (2025) is a socially charged drama that combines emotional storytelling with legal realism. It is a film that dares to question blind traditions while celebrating women’s resilience. Though not flawless, it succeeds in sparking important conversations and leaves the audience reflecting on how customs must evolve with time.
For viewers who enjoy impactful dramas with strong performances and meaningful themes, Riwaj is definitely worth watching.
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