Arjun Rampal's Chilling Villain: Ideology Over Rage

Arjun Rampal portrays Major Iqbal, an officer of Pakistan's ISI, with remarkable depth. His character is introduced not with violence, but with chilling precision and ideological conviction, promising to "bleed India with a thousand cuts." This sets Iqbal apart from conventional antagonists, who are often driven by rage.

Iqbal is depicted as an ideological extremist, motivated by the aftermath of the 1971 war. His methods are meticulous, integrating criminal networks with state-backed terror. Notably, he participated in directing the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, not just to command but to listen to the victims' suffering, highlighting a disturbing, real-time consumption of ideology.

Rampal's performance captures Iqbal's intense belief system, portraying him as a true believer rather than a performer of cruelty. This nuanced depiction shows how carefully constructed narratives can foster extremism. The film introduces layers of vulnerability, particularly through his interactions with his father, which humanizes him.

However, this humanization, while adding complexity, reduces Iqbal's intimidating presence. The film's narrative shift elevates Hamza, pushing Iqbal into a reactive role. By the climax, he is diminished, making his ultimate confrontation less impactful despite the strong writing and Rampal's performance.