The Taj Story Movie Review: Paresh Rawal’s Solo Act Falters in This Underwhelming Historical Drama

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Cast: Paresh Rawal, Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, Namit Das, Sneha Wagh

Director: Tushar Amrish Goel

The Taj Story, directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, sets out to re-examine one of India’s most iconic landmarks but ends up being more exhausting than enlightening. With Paresh Rawal leading the narrative as an Agra tour guide entangled in a controversy about the Taj Mahal’s history, the film aims high — but rarely hits the mark.

Plot: A Tour Guide Turned Reluctant Rebel

The story follows a middle-aged tour guide (Paresh Rawal) whose offhand comments about the Taj Mahal’s origins go viral, resulting in his dismissal. Fueled by anger and curiosity, he decides to challenge the official version of history in court, triggering a media storm.

While the premise carries potential, The Taj Story quickly falls into familiar territory. The first half unfolds predictably — a simple man’s awakening to a ‘national cause.’ The second half tries to shift gears into a courtroom drama filled with manuscripts, historical references, and ideological debates, but none of it lands with conviction.

Performances: Paresh Rawal Shines, but the Script Lets Him Down

Paresh Rawal shoulders the film almost entirely, delivering his lines with trademark wit and gravitas. Yet, his character feels repetitive — we’ve seen Rawal in similar outspoken roles before. Zakir Hussain, as the rival lawyer, barely gets enough material to make an impact, and Amruta Khanvilkar’s documentary filmmaker role remains underwritten.

Direction and Writing: Loud, Not Layered

Co-written by Tushar Amrish Goel and Saurabh M. Pandey, the film confuses volume for intensity. What could have been a nuanced reflection on historical narratives instead turns into a preachy monologue. The courtroom exchanges drag, and Paresh’s sarcastic comebacks — meant to be sharp — often verge on unintentionally comic.

Even the religious undertones, which could have added depth, feel overdone, particularly during a bizarre kidnapping subplot that serves little purpose.

Cinematography: A Visual Treat Amidst Chaos

The only true highlight is Satyajit Hajarnis’ cinematography. The Taj Mahal’s grandeur is captured beautifully — the soft morning light, marble reflections, and sweeping drone shots are breathtaking. Sadly, these visuals stand in contrast to the film’s otherwise cluttered storytelling.

Verdict: A Monumental Idea, Poorly Built

The Taj Story tries to question historical myths and ignite national discourse, but its execution lacks finesse. It’s long-winded at 2 hours and 45 minutes, with dialogues that sound forced rather than provocative.

In the end, despite Paresh Rawal’s earnest performance and some striking visuals, The Taj Story remains a missed opportunity — a film with an interesting foundation but no architectural strength to hold it up.