Final Solution: Massacres in India

In 2003, Rakesh Sharma directed a documentary that tore through the veil of silence surrounding a harrowing chapter in India’s history—”Final Solution: Massacres In India.” The film’s focus lies on the 2002 communal Gujarat Riots, a chilling response to the horrific Godhra Train Burning incident that claimed the lives of 58 Hindus. What emerges is a searing exploration of the violence that left a scar on the nation’s conscience.

Sharma’s documentary is a mosaic of voices, a tapestry woven from interviews with Muslims and Hindus spanning generations and genders. These voices provide a spectrum of perspectives on the causes, justifications, and the tragic events that unfolded during the riots. The film gazes unflinchingly at the anguish and pain etched into memories, while also venturing into the realm of hope for the future.

Amidst the chaos, the government of Gujarat, under the leadership of Chief Minister Narendra Modi, faces scrutiny. The documentary casts a critical eye on the government’s handling of the riots, fueling accusations of incitement and inaction. The narratives of survivors and witnesses form a haunting mosaic that reveals the depth of the trauma inflicted upon individuals and communities.

One of the most poignant moments in the documentary comes from a young boy, a witness to the horrors of the riots. He harbors a chilling aspiration—to become a “fauji” (soldier) and avenge the violence he witnessed. His words speak to the profound impact of the events on impressionable minds and the cycle of hatred that threatens to perpetuate.

The film’s journey from inception to screen is fraught with challenges. It faced bans and censorship in India due to its inflammatory content. Yet, its message couldn’t be stifled. The documentary dared to uncover uncomfortable truths that the media shied away from, confronting viewers with the stark reality of what transpired in Gujarat and its far-reaching consequences.

“Final Solution: Massacres In India” stands as a no-nonsense, meticulously researched chronicle. It avoids proselytizing and exposé, choosing instead to present facts unembellished. The documentary exposes the covert methods employed by organizations like RSS, VHP, Bajrang Dal, and BJP to propagate hate and poison, all for the pursuit of political gain. It sheds light on how these divisive tactics manipulate sentiments and sow discord among communities under the guise of religious ideologies.

As the title suggests, the documentary unveils a disturbing chapter in India’s history, unraveling the layers of pain and manipulation that led to the tragic events. It challenges us to confront the insidious forces that can permeate even the most diverse societies. The film is a stark reminder that beneath the facade of harmony, the seeds of hatred can lie dormant, waiting to be stoked.