A fine opportunity on a sensitive topic seems to be lost in the latest Prakash Jha's movie Aarakshan. Prakash Jha has given hits like - Gangaajal (2003; based on Bhagalpur blindings case), Apaharan (2005; on the kidnapping and ransom industry), Rajneeti (2010; political drama). Naturally, expectations are huge from the movie Aarakshan but Aarakshan disappoints.

The film is a bold attempt to highlight frustrations of a vast majority of students applying in general category. Vote bank politics is dividing the student population into two distinct camps and the movie does justice to show both the sides. The movie however fails to mark an impression.

First half of the movie Aarakshan is gripping, however, the movie loses its steam in the second half. It does gets interesting at the very end though. Amitabh Bachchan as usual is Amitabh Bachchan. Saif Ali Khan has done a good job as well as Deepika Padukone. Manoj Bajpai has a solid performance. Prateik Babbar was ordinary. It is much expected from Prateik but he failed. He should try more meaty roles to establish himself.

Aarakshan was controversial even before it was released. Prakash Jha's movies have been controversial since he deals with sensitive topics. In case of Aarakshan, politicians censored the movie fearing it will create rift in pro-reservation and anti-reservation groups. UP, Punjab and Andhra Pradesh have banned the movie even when censor board has passed the movie.

Mr. Prakash Jha, we expect better from you.