Baanam

Bhagat Panigrahi, in 1989's Ranasthali, nurtures the dream of becoming an IPS officer. His father, Chandrasekhar Panigrahi, returns after twenty years as a former Naxalite and declares retirement from militancy, aiming to leave the past behind. He questions Bhagat's ambition after Bhagat's mother was killed by a policeman, challenging the legitimacy of a life dedicated to public service. Bhagat reasons with him and, through persistent discussion, wins his father's reluctant blessing.

Shakti Patnaik rises as a local crime lord, quietly expanding his criminal empire while striking fear into police and rivals. He operates from the shadows, tightening his grip on the town as Bhagat sets his sights on a lawful career. The growing tension between law and crime forms the backdrop for Bhagat's future decisions. The town becomes a battleground for ambition and control.

Bhagat meets Subbalakshmi, a naive married Brahmin girl, at a railway station and is moved by her plight. Her family's dowry troubles have driven her father to suicide, a tragedy she does not yet fully understand. Bhagat offers help and support to enable her to start a new life with independence. This encounter marks the beginning of a deeper bond between them.

Subbalakshmi's husband arranges a secret meeting, and Bhagat accompanies her to confront him. During the encounter, she distances herself from her husband and ends the relationship. The moment deepens Bhagat's commitment to protect her and confront the forces of oppression she has faced. Tensions rise as their decision to sever ties draws retaliation.

After the break, the ex-husband seeks revenge and enlists Shakti Patnaik to abduct Subbalakshmi. The kidnapping triggers a clash between Bhagat and Shakti as the two rivals square off over her fate. Bhagat vows to rescue her and restore her autonomy. The abduction also reveals Shakti's growing power and ruthlessness.

Following the perilous events, Bhagat gathers courage to propose marriage to Subbalakshmi, and she accepts. Their engagement adds a personal stake to Bhagat's fight against Shakti. It also foreshadows the coming storm as Bhagat balances love, duty, and justice. The couple's bond strengthens Bhagat's resolve.

On the way to UPSC training, Bhagat qualifies and receives his assignment to the training academy. Shakti Patnaik and his gang interrupt this moment and brutally injure Bhagat, signaling the high stakes of their conflict. Bhagat's mentor and dream frays under the assault, but his resolve to fight back only hardens. The injury becomes a turning point that fuels his determination.

Enraged by the attack, Bhagat's father Chandrasekhar Panigrahi attempts to kill Shakti but is killed by Shakti himself. The loss devastates Bhagat and deepens his resolve to dismantle Shakti's empire. Bhagat reassesses his methods and the cost of violence. The tragedy marks a personal tipping point in the fight against tyranny.

With the facts coming to light, Bhagat resolves to dismantle Shakti's criminal network. He seeks counsel from a senior IPS officer who inspired him in childhood, but the officer initially refuses to help. Eventually, the officer agrees to guide him, rekindling Bhagat's faith in lawful struggle. This mentorship sets the stage for the planned crackdown.

Bhagat and his gang gather solid evidence against Shakti and launch coordinated actions against his criminal enterprises. They mobilize police support to ensure the crackdown has teeth and legitimacy. The operation aims to topple Shakti's hold on the town and demonstrate the power of the law. The plan marks a decisive shift from personal vendetta to structured justice.

Shakti attempts to flee to Hyderabad, hoping to escape the mounting pressure. Bhagat and his cadre, now backed by the police, close in on him as the chase moves toward the southern city. The pursuit escalates the stakes and tests Bhagat's leadership and courage. The pursuit ends with Shakti's capture in the ensuing confrontation.

In a final confrontation, Bhagat's forces trap Shakti and a brutal fight erupts. Bhagat delivers the decisive blow and kills Shakti, bringing down the tyrant who terrorized the town. The victory comes with cost, but it completes Bhagat's transformation into a defender of the people. The fallen tyrant's shadow recedes as the city breathes a tentative sigh of justice.

With the case closed and the threat removed, the cadets receive their postings and Bhagat prepares to begin training at the police academy. The film closes on the promise of a 'new chapter' as Bhagat steps into a life of service with renewed purpose. The tone shifts from personal vengeance to public responsibility as the next phase of his career begins.