Ajey: The Untold Story of a Yogi Review: A Biopic with Moments, but Lacking Cohesion
Biopics present a unique challenge: capturing a life story while navigating the fine line between creative interpretation and historical accuracy. “Ajey: The Untold Story of a Yogi,” the latest biopic on Yogi Adityanath, attempts this delicate balance. Directed by Ravindra Gautam and inspired by Shantanu Gupta’s book “The Monk Who Became Chief Minister,” the film chronicles the journey of Ajey, from his humble beginnings running a bus in his hometown to his eventual rise as Yogi Adityanath and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
The initial part of the film unfolds smoothly, bolstered by a capable script from Dilip Bachchan Jha and Priyank Dubey, and a strong ensemble cast. However, the narrative falters in the second half, shifting from a compelling story to a mere chronological listing of Yogi Ji’s achievements. This exhaustive detailing dilutes the film’s impact, making it more informative than engaging.
Visually, Vishnu Rao’s cinematography is commendable, effectively capturing the scenic landscapes and the spiritual atmosphere of the ashram. While the background score enhances the first half, it becomes somewhat jarring and overpowering as the protagonist’s influence grows.
Performance-wise, Anant Joshi delivers a sincere portrayal of Ajey, bringing a measured intensity to the role, reminiscent of his performance in “12th Fail.” Paresh Rawal is equally impactful as Mahant Avaidyanath, lending gravitas and depth to his character. The supporting cast also contributes convincingly to the film’s overall presentation.
In conclusion, “Ajey: The Untold Story of a Yogi” offers several praiseworthy moments, particularly in its first half and through its strong performances. Nevertheless, its ambition outstrips its execution, resulting in an uneven biopic that, despite its earnestness, struggles to find a consistent narrative voice.