In a cinematic landscape often dominated by over-the-top patriotism and formulaic action thrillers, Ground Zero emerges as a refreshing, grounded military drama that prioritizes authenticity over exaggeration. Directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under Excel Entertainment, this action-thriller, released on April 25, 2025, is inspired by real-life events surrounding the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the subsequent hunt for terrorist mastermind Ghazi Baba. At its heart is Emraan Hashmi, who delivers a career-defining performance as BSF officer Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, proving his mettle in a role that demands both emotional depth and steely resolve.
A Gripping Tale Rooted in Reality
Set against the volatile backdrop of Kashmir in the early 2000s, Ground Zero chronicles the relentless pursuit of Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Ghazi Baba, responsible for orchestrating devastating attacks, including the 2001 Parliament attack and the 2002 Akshardham Temple attack. The film follows BSF Deputy Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, a Kirti Chakra awardee, as he leads a two-year operation to track down the elusive terrorist. What sets Ground Zero apart from its genre counterparts is its restraint—it avoids chest-thumping jingoism and instead focuses on the human cost of conflict, the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers, and the complex socio-political fabric of Kashmir.
The narrative begins in 2001 Srinagar, where Dubey and his team grapple with the “pistol gang,” a group of radicalized youths brainwashed into targeting soldiers. As the stakes escalate with the Parliament attack, Dubey’s mission becomes personal, driven not by revenge but by a deep sense of duty. The screenplay, penned by Sanchit Gupta and Priyadarshee Srivastava, weaves a taut thriller that balances high-stakes action with quieter, introspective moments. One standout subplot involves Dubey’s relationship with a young Kashmiri informant, Husain (Mir Mehrooz), whose tragic arc underscores the film’s nuanced take on the region’s turmoil.
Emraan Hashmi: A Revelation in Uniform
Emraan Hashmi, often celebrated for his romantic and thriller roles, steps into uncharted territory as a BSF officer, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Shedding his “serial kisser” image, Hashmi embodies Dubey with a quiet intensity that speaks volumes. His portrayal is marked by restraint—whether it’s the stillness in his eyes as he processes the weight of his decisions or the subtle tremor in his voice during moments of vulnerability. Hashmi’s Dubey is not a larger-than-life hero but a man burdened by responsibility, haunted by losses, and driven by an unwavering commitment to his country.
Critics and audiences alike have lauded Hashmi’s performance as one of his finest. “Emraan Hashmi is a one-man force in the film, and it’s a pity we don’t get to see his earnest performances more often,” notes a review from India Today. His ability to convey both strength and fragility makes Dubey relatable, grounding the film’s emotional core. Whether he’s navigating tense interrogations or sharing tender moments with his wife, Jaya (Sai Tamhankar), Hashmi brings authenticity to every scene. Posts on X echo this sentiment, with fans calling his performance “gritty, authentic, and emotionally nuanced.”
Supporting Cast and Technical Brilliance
While Hashmi is the film’s linchpin, the supporting cast adds significant depth. Sai Tamhankar shines as Jaya Dubey, offering a poignant portrayal of a wife who is both her husband’s emotional anchor and a pillar of strength. Her limited screen time is impactful, particularly in a scene where she deftly responds to questions about her husband’s sacrifices. Zoya Hussain, as intelligence officer Aadila, delivers a compelling performance, bringing sharpness and resolve to her role. The ensemble, including Mukesh Tiwari, Deepak Paramesh, and Lalit Prabhakar, lends authenticity to the portrayal of BSF jawans, though some characters feel underutilized due to the script’s focus on Dubey.
Technically, Ground Zero excels. Kamaljeet Negi’s cinematography captures the stark beauty and tension of Kashmir, from serene Dal Lake to gritty urban streets, immersing viewers in the region’s duality. John Stewart Eduri’s background score, infused with electric guitar riffs, amplifies the drama without overpowering it, while songs like Tanishk Bagchi’s Lahoo and So Lene De add emotional heft. The action sequences are raw and realistic, prioritizing tactical precision over Bollywood flair, a choice that enhances the film’s credibility.
Strengths and Shortcomings
Ground Zero’s greatest strength lies in its refusal to sensationalize its subject matter. Unlike films like The Kashmir Files or Article 370, it steers clear of divisive rhetoric, focusing instead on the human stories behind the conflict. Lines like “Is only the land of Kashmir ours, or its people too?” reflect the film’s introspective tone, prompting viewers to consider the broader implications of security operations. The film’s relevance is heightened by its release just days after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in 2025, which claimed 26 lives, making its themes of sacrifice and resilience all the more poignant.
However, the film is not without flaws. Some critics note its pacing issues, particularly in the second half, where the narrative occasionally drags. “The second half could have been crisper,” observes India Today, pointing to a climax that feels abrupt despite its intensity. The script, while engaging, sometimes leans on familiar tropes, and secondary characters like Mukesh Tiwari’s superior officer border on stereotypical. A tighter edit and deeper exploration of subplots could have elevated the film further. As one X user noted, “While there are a few chunks that are thrilling, it isn’t gripping in entirety.”
