Vijaynagar'er Hirey (Kakababu) Movie Review: A Steady Adventure with Engaging Clues
Released on January 23, 2026, Vijaynagar'er Hirey (Kakababu) marks the latest installment in the beloved Bengali franchise. Directed by Chandrasish Ray, this UA-rated film takes audiences on a thrilling journey to Hampi, where Kakababu and Shontu search for a legendary lost diamond. The narrative weaves together elements of history, greed, and hidden agendas, creating a suspenseful race against time that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.
Plot Overview: A Dangerous Web of History and Greed
The story begins with Kakababu, portrayed by Prosenjit Chatterjee, and his companion Shontu, played by Aryann Bhowmik, embarking on an expedition to Hampi. Their mission is to uncover a fabled diamond, but they soon find themselves entangled in a perilous web. As clues emerge and threats intensify, the hunt transforms into a gripping adventure filled with unexpected twists. The film skillfully balances action with mystery, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout the unfolding drama.
Cast Performances: Strengths and Highlights
Prosenjit Chatterjee delivers a commanding performance as Kakababu, bringing a mature and credible presence to the seasoned explorer. His portrayal adds depth to the character, making Kakababu both reassuring and authentic. Aryann Bhowmik shines as Shontu, demonstrating confidence and agility, particularly in action sequences where he maintains emotional steadiness. The chemistry between Chatterjee and Bhowmik remains a cornerstone of the film's success.
Supporting roles enhance the narrative: Pushan Dasgupta as Jojo provides well-timed humor that lightens tense moments without feeling forced. Anujoy Chattopadhyay embodies intensity as Mohan Singh, a character driven by greed, though his motivations lack complexity. Rajnandini Paul introduces freshness as Raya, a descendant of the Tuluva dynasty, though her character's reveal falls short of its dramatic potential. Chiranjeet Chakraborty commands attention in his limited screen time, adding gravitas with his trademark ease.
Cinematic Execution and Visuals
The film opens with a graphics-heavy flashback, showcasing Bengali cinema's ambition to elevate visual storytelling. While some effects may not seamlessly integrate, the intent to create a larger canvas is evident. As the story progresses, the film relies on its atmospheric suspense, with restrained music allowing the setting and plot to build tension naturally. The clue-hunting trail and gradual unraveling of the diamond's mystery are consistently engaging, serving as the film's core strength.
Overall Impression and Legacy
Vijaynagar'er Hirey may not be the most thrilling chapter in the Kakababu franchise, but it offers a steady and absorbing adventure. The film respects its legacy while maintaining intrigue through well-paced storytelling and strong character dynamics. With a critic's rating of 3.5 and a matching user rating, it appeals to fans of adventure and mystery genres, delivering a satisfying cinematic experience that honors its roots.
