Daayra X review: Meghna Gulzar finds a gripping story, but loses pace along the way
Meghna Gulzar’s Daayra has opened in cinemas, with early reactions on X praising the film’s handling of justice, investigation and accountability, as well as the performances of Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran. However, some viewers felt that the thriller loses momentum as it progresses, with its pacing and screenplay coming in for criticism.
Daayra has opened in theatres, and early reactions on X are mixed. The film stars Kareena and Prithviraj as DCP Ajooni Kohli and DCP Raman Kumar, respectively. The two police officers find themselves on opposite sides of a controversial case involving rape, murder and a police encounter.
One viewer called Daayra “a very good film” and praised the way it presents two contrasting perspectives on justice. “Prithviraj Sukumaran believes the system may not deliver justice in time, while Kareena Kapoor Khan believes in the law, procedure and the system,” the viewer wrote.
The user also praised the film's editing, saying that it moves between the past and present smoothly and keeps the story engaging. They appreciated the film for focusing on the investigation and tension without unnecessary songs or distractions.
Another viewer described Daayra as “a smart, unsettling and thought-provoking watch” and praised both leads.
“Prithviraj was excellent as the cop and Bebo absolutely nailed her role too,” the user wrote, adding that the film raises questions about “the morality of punishment and the idea of justice itself”.
While several viewers praised Kareena's performance, one X user pointed out that her character has limited screen time.
“Just finished watching #Daayra. Kareena Kapoor Khan has an extended cameo with limited screen time. She appears for a few minutes every 20–25 minutes. Her presence still leaves an impact, but don’t expect a major role,” the user wrote.
Another viewer was more critical of the film and rated it 2.5 stars. Comparing it with Meghna's previous films such as Raazi and Talvar, the user felt Daayra did not have the same impact.
“Screenplay lacks urgency, investigation takes forever to get anywhere. Director fails to handle the subject that deserved a far more engaging execution,” the user wrote.
The same viewer described Kareena's performance as casual and said she looked “disinterested”, while praising Prithviraj as “excellent”.
There were also brief reactions praising the performances, with one viewer writing, “Emotions with fine acting by Kareena Kapoor and Prithviraj as expected.”
What is Daayra about?Daayra is a crime thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar. The film begins with the rape and murder of a young woman, after which DCP Raman Kumar (Prithviraj Sukumaran) and his team kill the four accused in a police encounter.DCP Ajooni Kohli (Kareena Kapoor Khan) is then brought in to investigate the encounter. The film explores the clash between the two officers and raises questions about justice, police procedure and accountability.
Written by Yash Keswani, Sima Agarwal and Meghna Gulzar, Daayra is inspired by true events. The film also stars Jitendra Joshi, Kshitee Jog, Kanwaljeet Singh, Sandeep Kulkarni and Trupti Khamkar in supporting roles.
Produced by Junglee Pictures and Dr Jayantilal Gada's Pen Studios, Daayra is distributed by Pen Marudhar and released in cinemas on September 18.- EndsPublished By: shweta keshriPublished On: Sep 18, 2026 13:11 IST
