Wamiqa Gabbi on playing Jyoti Nikam in Prahaar: 'I realized how important a role she has played'
Synopsis
Wamiqa Gabbi's tribute to Jyoti Nikam at the 'Prahaar' trailer launch is more than a promotional soundbite — it signals how deeply personal this biopic has become for its cast. With Rajkummar Rao leading and Avinash Arun directing, the film about 26/11 prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam hits cinemas on 16 October 2026.
Key Takeaways
Wamiqa Gabbi plays Jyoti Nikam , wife of public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam , in 'Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam' .
Gabbi met Jyoti Nikam in person before filming, calling the interaction crucial to understanding the character.
The film is directed by Avinash Arun and stars Rajkummar Rao , Jaideep Ahlawat , and Sikandar Kher alongside Gabbi.
The story centres on Ujjwal Nikam's role as lead prosecutor in the trial of 26/11 accused Ajmal Kasab .
The film is set to release in cinemas on 16 October 2026 .
Actress Wamiqa Gabbi has spoken candidly about stepping into the shoes of Jyoti Nikam for the upcoming biographical film 'Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam', revealing that a personal meeting with the real-life figure transformed her understanding of the role. The actress made these remarks at the trailer launch of the film in Mumbai.
Meeting the Real Jyoti Nikam
Gabbi described her pre-shoot encounter with Jyoti Nikam as a defining moment in her preparation. 'When I met Jyoti ma'am, I realized how important a role she has played in Ujjwal sir's journey. I was very happy that I got a chance to play this role in the film,' she said at the event.
The actress went further, addressing Jyoti directly in an emotional tribute: 'Jyoti ma'am, I love you. You are such a strong person, and I am honored that I got to play you. I am grateful that I got to know you and could show a brief part of your life in the film. I think the way you have handled your life, the way you have taken care of everyone, is commendable. I love you.'
Initial Hesitation and the Weight of Real-Life Portrayal
Gabbi also acknowledged that she was not immediately certain about accepting the part. Portraying a living, real-life personality — Jyoti Nikam, wife of renowned public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam — came with its own pressures. The actress had earlier appeared on 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 18' alongside Ujjwal Nikam, where she first publicly discussed her reservations before ultimately committing to the film.
About the Film and Its Cast
Directed by Avinash Arun, 'Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam' draws from the life and career of Ujjwal Nikam, the prominent lawyer who led the prosecution in the trial of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Ajmal Kasab. The film features Rajkummar Rao in the lead role, with Wamiqa Gabbi, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Sikandar Kher in key supporting parts.
Notably, the film brings together a cast with strong credentials in character-driven cinema — Rao and Ahlawat both have prior experience with biopics and courtroom dramas, lending the project considerable credibility ahead of its release.
Release Date and What to Expect
'Prahaar' is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on 16 October 2026. The film is expected to put a spotlight not only on Ujjwal Nikam's legal battles but also on the personal support system — including Jyoti Nikam — that sustained him through high-stakes cases of national consequence. With the 26/11 trials still etched in public memory, the film enters a space where audience emotional investment is already high.
Point of View
But this one carries unusual weight — the 26/11 trials remain a live reference point in India's counter-terror consciousness. Gabbi's emotional public tribute to Jyoti Nikam is a smart framing device, humanising a film that could otherwise lean too heavily on legal procedural drama. The real test will be whether the film gives Jyoti Nikam's story genuine screen time, or reduces her to a supportive backdrop for the male lead. Audience appetite for nuanced portrayals of women behind public figures has grown sharply — 'Prahaar' would do well to meet that expectation.
NationPress
30 Sept 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Wamiqa Gabbi playing in 'Prahaar'?
Wamiqa Gabbi plays Jyoti Nikam, the wife of renowned public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, in 'Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam'. She met Jyoti Nikam in person before filming to better understand the role.
What is the release date of 'Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam'?
'Prahaar' is scheduled to release in cinemas on 16 October 2026. The film is directed by Avinash Arun.
Who is Ujjwal Nikam and why is a film being made about him?
Ujjwal Nikam is a prominent Indian public prosecutor best known for leading the prosecution in the trial of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Ajmal Kasab. 'Prahaar' draws from his life and career, including the personal support of his wife Jyoti.
Who else stars in 'Prahaar' alongside Wamiqa Gabbi?
The film features Rajkummar Rao in the lead role as Ujjwal Nikam, with Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher in key supporting parts. It is directed by Avinash Arun.
Did Wamiqa Gabbi have any hesitation before taking on the role?
Yes, Gabbi has acknowledged initial hesitation about portraying a living, real-life personality. She discussed her reservations publicly during an appearance on 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 18' alongside Ujjwal Nikam before ultimately accepting the part.
