Producer Amit Jani has unveiled the first poster of ‘Kalki Sambhal’, a film linking the 1978 Sambhal riots with present-day events in 2024 through layered characters.
Poster Triggers Fresh Debate
Producer Amit Jani, known for backing films inspired by real incidents, is back in the spotlight with his upcoming project Kalki Sambhal. The makers have released the film’s first poster, which focuses not on plot details but on the central characters, signalling that the narrative will be driven by personalities and their motivations rather than events alone.
A Story Spanning 1978 to 2024
According to the production team, ‘Kalki Sambhal’ draws its roots from the Sambhal riots of 1978 in Uttar Pradesh and connects them to the socio-political circumstances of 2024. The film attempts to explore how unresolved conflicts, decisions and ideologies from the past continue to influence the present. Makers claim the narrative places historical context alongside contemporary realities to highlight continuity and change.
Two Antagonists, Two Eras
The poster introduces two pivotal antagonistic characters. The first is “Abbajan,” accused in the story of instigating riots in 1978 for political gains. This role is played by Mahesh Manjrekar.
The second character, “Bhaijaan,” portrayed as Abbajan’s grandson, is shown as a figure accused of fuelling violence in Sambhal in 2024. This role is essayed by Vijay Raaz, marking his return in a hard-hitting, character-driven part.
Mystery Around SP Arjun Bishnoi
Another important character in the film is SP Arjun Bishnoi, positioned as a symbol of law and order within the story. While the role is said to be significant to the narrative’s balance, the makers have not yet revealed the actor playing this part. They have indicated that the next poster or teaser will officially introduce the character.
Direction and Creative Approach
‘Kalki Sambhal’ is directed by Bharat S Shrinet, with Amit Jani himself handling production responsibilities. The creative team maintains that the film is not intended as propaganda for any side but as an examination of characters, their backgrounds, and the long-term impact of their choices. The first poster, they say, is meant to familiarise audiences with these characters before revealing the full storyline.
Backdrop of ‘Udaipur Files’
Amit Jani previously produced Udaipur Files, based on the 2022 Kanhaiyalal murder case. Released theatrically on 8 August 2025, the film had a limited box-office run, collecting around ₹2.05 crore net and ₹2.34 crore gross in India. Despite a 56-day theatrical presence, it failed to make a commercial impact and remained surrounded by controversy.
Speaking after the poster release, Amit Jani said:
“This story is not just about the past. What happened in 1978 has seeds that are still visible in society today. ‘Kalki Sambhal’ will raise questions we often choose to ignore.”
The first poster of ‘Kalki Sambhal’ makes it clear that the film will once again engage with sensitive social and political themes. While the release date is yet to be announced, the early focus on characters has already sparked discussion. The upcoming teaser and trailer will determine whether the film moves beyond controversy to generate meaningful dialogue.
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