Raazi

The Real Spy Drama Behind Raazi: Alia Bhatt, Meghna Gulzar, and a Credit Controversy

Raazi (2018), the gripping espionage thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar, wasn’t just a box-office hit—it was a project steeped in tension, creative clashes, and a behind-the-scenes battle over credit. Starring Alia Bhatt as Sehmat, an undercover Indian spy married into a Pakistani military family, the film earned critical acclaim for its nuanced storytelling and Bhatt’s powerhouse performance. latestnetflix.com's take is that but the making of Raazi was far from smooth, with its own share of real-life drama.

The Spy Story That Almost Didn’t Get Made

Based on Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, Raazi was a passion project for Gulzar, who adapted the story into a screenplay. The film’s magic, as Vicky Kaushal later described it, lay in its ability to humanize espionage—showing the emotional toll of betrayal and loyalty . But the journey from page to screen was rocky. Sikka, the original author, publicly accused Gulzar of removing his writing credit from the film, sparking a controversy that played out in the media.

In a viral video, Sikka claimed he was sidelined after contributing significantly to the script, alleging that his name was scrubbed from the credits . The dispute escalated, with Sikka insisting he had written the first draft and even the film’s iconic dialogue. Gulzar’s team, however, maintained that the screenplay was a collaborative effort, with Gulzar herself taking the lead on the final script. The feud became so public that it overshadowed the film’s release, with fans divided over who deserved credit .

Alia Bhatt’s Transformation: From Star to Spy

Bhatt’s portrayal of Sehmat was widely praised, with critics calling it one of her most mature performances . But the role wasn’t just an acting challenge—it required a physical and emotional overhaul. In interviews, Bhatt revealed that she immersed herself in research, studying real-life spies and the psychological weight of their missions . The film’s success cemented her reputation as one of Bollywood’s most versatile actresses, proving she could carry a high-stakes thriller without relying on glamour or romance.

Her chemistry with Vicky Kaushal, who played her Pakistani husband, added depth to the story. Kaushal later spoke about the film’s delicate balance, noting how Raazi avoided demonizing either side of the India-Pakistan conflict . Gulzar, too, emphasized that the film wasn’t about nationalism but about the personal cost of war .

The Controversy That Refused to Die

The credit dispute between Sikka and Gulzar didn’t fade after the film’s release. In fact, it resurfaced in interviews and social media, with Sikka doubling down on his claims. While the film went on to win awards and box-office success, the controversy left a stain on its legacy. Some industry insiders suggested the feud was exaggerated for publicity, while others saw it as a cautionary tale about creative ownership in Bollywood .

Despite the drama, Raazi remains a standout in Gulzar’s filmography and a defining role for Bhatt. The film’s 7.2/10 rating on SensCritique and its strong Rotten Tomatoes presence reflect its impact . Yet, the behind-the-scenes tensions serve as a reminder that even the most compelling stories can be overshadowed by real-life conflicts.