Charak is a disturbing and atmospheric social thriller that confronts the thin line between faith and blind superstition. Directed by Shieladitya Moulik, the film is set in a remote village in the days leading up to the traditional Charak fair, a ritualistic festival marked by extreme acts of devotion. When a young boy is murdered just before the mela, the story unfolds into a chilling investigation that exposes how desperation and belief can override humanity. [timesofind...atimes.com]

The film follows parallel lives—childless couples driven by hope, villagers trapped in inherited beliefs, and a police officer torn between reason and pressure. Sahidur Rahaman delivers a grounded performance as the investigating officer, while Anjali Patil brings emotional restraint as his wife, representing modern skepticism within a deeply traditional setting. The supporting cast adds realism, making the village feel lived‑in and unsettling rather than theatrical. [indiatoday.in]

Visually, Charak is striking. The cinematography captures stark landscapes and ritualistic imagery with haunting beauty, creating a constant sense of unease. Scenes depicting aghori practices and physical endurance are unsettling, yet never sensationalized. The background score blends folk elements with ominous undertones, heightening tension without overwhelming the narrative. [timesofind...atimes.com]

The screenplay avoids simple answers. Instead of villainizing individuals, the film critiques collective belief systems that normalize cruelty in the name of devotion. While the pacing slows briefly in the middle, the final act is gripping and thought‑provoking. Charak stands out as one of 2026’s more daring films, using folklore to question uncomfortable social truths.