Ganapath a Hero Is Born is a 2023 Indian Hindi-language dystopian action film directed by Vikas Bahl, starring Tiger Shroff in a dual role alongside Kriti Sanon and Amitabh Bachchan. Set in the year 2070, the film explores a society starkly divided by a towering wall: the affluent reside in the technologically advanced Silver City, while the impoverished struggle for survival in the dilapidated outskirts. The narrative follows Guddu (Tiger Shroff), a carefree resident of Silver City who indulges in a lavish lifestyle and works under John the Englishman (Ziad Bakri), organizing underground boxing matches for the elite. Guddu’s life takes a drastic turn when he is betrayed and left for dead by John. Surviving the ordeal, he seeks refuge among the oppressed masses, where he encounters Jassi (Kriti Sanon) and Shiva (Rahman). They reveal a prophecy about a savior named Ganapath destined to liberate them. Initially reluctant, Guddu undergoes rigorous training under Shiva and gradually embraces his role as the prophesied hero. He infiltrates the elite’s combat tournaments, aiming to dismantle the oppressive regime from within. The climax unveils a confrontation between Guddu and the enigmatic ruler Dalini, leading to revelations that challenge Guddu’s understanding of his identity and mission.
Despite its ambitious premise, “Ganapath” received predominantly negative reviews. Critics pointed out the film’s reliance on clichéd dystopian themes and subpar visual effects. The Times of India noted that while the concept held promise, the execution was marred by “shoddy graphics” and unnecessary subplots that detracted from the central narrative. Filmfare highlighted the film’s failure to effectively blend its sci-fi and mythological elements, resulting in a disjointed storyline. Additionally, the performances, particularly Tiger Shroff’s portrayal of Guddu/Ganapath, were critiqued for lacking depth and failing to elevate the film’s overall impact.
In summary, “Ganapath: A Hero Is Born” aspires to present a futuristic tale of rebellion and self-discovery but falters due to its predictable plot, inadequate character development, and technical shortcomings. The film serves as a reminder that innovative concepts require cohesive storytelling and high-quality production to resonate with audiences.