The Bengali crime thriller Durgapur Junction, directed by Arindam Bhattacharya, is a suspense-packed ride through secrets, lies, and a string of mysterious deaths in the industrial heart of West Bengal. With its gritty setting, layered characters, and intense storytelling, the film keeps viewers guessing until the very end. While lead actors Swastika Mukherjee and Vikram Chatterjee drive the core narrative, it’s Ekavali Khanna who brings a quiet yet unforgettable presence to the screen.
The Plot: Murders, Medicine, and Mystery
The story is set in Durgapur, a city best known for its factories and smokestacks. But beneath its industrial shine lies something sinister — a wave of sudden, unexplained deaths among middle-aged men. What initially looks like a case of heart attacks takes a darker turn when patterns emerge.
At first, the deaths seem linked to a medicine racket, but soon it’s clear that something much deeper is at play. The script is loosely inspired by a real-life case in the United States, but the director adapts it smartly to the Indian context, making the story feel grounded and relatable.
Ekavali Khanna: Quiet Strength with a Lasting Impact
Among the strong cast, Ekavali Khanna stands out for her subtle, poised performance. She plays a character that, while not always in the spotlight, becomes increasingly important as the film progresses.
Ekavali is known for her understated acting style, and here she brings that same quiet depth. Her character adds a psychological layer to the story — someone who knows more than she lets on, and whose past is closely tied to the film’s mystery. Ekavali doesn’t need dramatic scenes to make an impact. Even her silences speak volumes.
In a film filled with noise — literal and emotional — her calm, thoughtful portrayal provides contrast and class. Her presence enriches the narrative and reminds us that power doesn’t always come from shouting; sometimes it comes from stillness and subtlety.
Whether it’s a sideways glance or a pause before speaking, Ekavali keeps viewers wondering — is she part of the mystery or the key to solving it?
Swastika Mukherjee as Ushashie: A Journalist with a Fire
Swastika Mukherjee plays Ushashie, a bold investigative journalist. She’s not afraid to ask hard questions or step into dangerous territory. Her role adds emotional weight to the story, and her chemistry with the rest of the cast gives the film a strong backbone.
Swastika shines in emotional scenes and holds her ground in tense confrontations. Ushashie’s character is driven by justice, and Swastika brings that determination to life with confidence and control.
Vikram Chatterjee as Soumyo: The Reluctant Cop
Soumyo, played by Vikram Chatterjee, is the police officer in charge of the case. At first skeptical and dismissive, his attitude changes as the mystery deepens. Vikram’s performance brings balance to the film, showing a man pulled between duty, disbelief, and the strange facts in front of him.
As the investigation unfolds, his character is forced to reconsider what he knows about the system, crime, and even his own instincts.
Cinematography, Direction, and Mood
Director Arindam Bhattacharya uses Durgapur’s industrial backdrop to create a sense of gloom and danger. The camera work is tight, often following characters through narrow alleys, hospitals, and abandoned sites, making viewers feel like they’re part of the investigation.
The pacing is deliberate — not too fast, not too slow — allowing the story to build tension. The background score is haunting but never overpowering, enhancing the suspense without stealing attention.
Some twists in the second half may be a bit hard to follow, and a couple of character arcs feel underdeveloped. But these are small bumps in what is otherwise a smooth, gripping ride.
Durgapur Junction: A Thrilling Watch with Strong Performances
Durgapur Junction is not your typical whodunnit. It’s darker, more psychological, and has something to say about human nature, crime, and justice. With solid performances across the board — especially from Swastika Mukherjee, Vikram Chatterjee, and the ever-graceful Ekavali Khanna — the film delivers an engaging, thought-provoking experience.
For lovers of mystery and slow-burn thrillers, this one is definitely worth watching.
