In a pivotal moment of Agni, a fireman explains the meaning of their favorite word, Pagal. Here, Pa stands for water, Ga for gas, and L for light—three critical factors to control before leaving the house to minimize fire risks. This small yet impactful detail highlights the unsung heroism of firefighters, who risk their lives to save others but rarely receive the respect they deserve.

Director Rahul Dholakia brings this overlooked narrative to the forefront in Agni, a film set in the vibrant yet chaotic Lower Parel area of Mumbai. The story revolves around Vitthal Rao (Pratik Gandhi), the resolute head of a fire brigade team, who feels disheartened by society’s disregard for firefighters. His son idolizes his uncle Samit (Divyendu Sharma), a police officer, instead of Vitthal, further fueling his frustrations. Meanwhile, his wife (Sai Tamhankar) lives in constant dread every time the fire alarm rings.

A Glimpse Into Arson and Heroism

The plot thickens as Vitthal and his team, including the courageous female firefighter Avni (Saiyami Kher), respond to a series of arson incidents. Along the way, Vitthal finds himself at odds with Samit, who brushes off these cases as insignificant. The film delves into whether these fires are part of a larger conspiracy or isolated incidents, taking viewers on a journey through courage, conflict, and discovery.

Rahul Dholakia’s Return to Direction

Agni marks Rahul Dholakia’s return to filmmaking seven years after his hit Raees. This time, he sheds light on the rigorous, soldier-like role of firefighters. From dramatic rescues to institutional challenges, the film offers a glimpse into the sacrifices and struggles of these unsung heroes.

A Tale That Wavers

While Dholakia, along with co-writer Vijay Maurya, crafts an engaging screenplay, the narrative occasionally loses its footing. Despite this, the fire station’s authentic design by Rachna Mandal and Bidhan Guha, and the streets of Mumbai captured brilliantly by cinematographer K.U. Mohanan, lend realism to the film.

Stellar Performances Anchor the Film

Pratik Gandhi shines as Vitthal, bringing depth to the character’s inner struggles and resilience. Divyendu Sharma impresses as the self-serving police officer Samit, while Saiyami Kher delivers a strong performance as Avni. Sai Tamhankar, playing Vitthal’s wife, adds emotional depth to the narrative.

A Message Amidst the Flames

Despite its occasional missteps, Agni succeeds in delivering an important message about valuing the dedication of firefighters. It’s a heartfelt tribute to their bravery, wrapped in a story that combines human emotions, social issues, and action.