Exploring Prejudice and Survival in 'Dilli Dark'

A Journey Through Racism and Resilience

Michael Okeke, portrayed by Samuel Abiola Robinson, embarked on a journey from Nigeria to Delhi six years ago, seeking a new life. However, his experience has been fraught with challenges. He often finds himself having to clarify his name, saying, “It’s not OK OK. It’s Okeke,” which is just a minor hurdle compared to the racial slurs he faces from both adults and children.

Accusations of cannibalism are among the more extreme stereotypes he encounters. Despite his aspirations to become a marketing manager, he resorts to selling drugs to make ends meet, inadvertently reinforcing negative perceptions about his community.

His life takes a turn when he meets Maansi, played by Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, a self-proclaimed spiritual guru. Michael's fate becomes intertwined with hers as she claims to perform miracles for women struggling with infertility.

Dibakar Das Roy’s film, Dilli Dark, is both ambitious and thought-provoking, described as a comedy that intentionally embraces bad taste. Released in 2023, the film embodies the darkness suggested by its title.

The narrative delves into Michael’s experiences with discrimination, revealing the pervasive darkness lurking in the city. The film, lasting 101 minutes, thoroughly explores its themes, transitioning from a focus on racism to a broader critique of the city’s more unsightly aspects.

Das Roy’s screenplay critiques Delhi’s harsh treatment of outsiders, highlighting the residents' tendency to stereotype unfamiliar experiences and the overall harshness of life in the capital.

Michael's struggles reflect real-life instances of discrimination faced by individuals from African nations, underscoring that his experiences are not merely fictional.

The plot remains engaging until Michael partners with Maansi. Up to this point, Dilli Dark effectively illustrates the thick atmosphere of bias and indifference in Delhi.

With no home to return to, Michael attempts to adapt to substandard living conditions, dealing with a neighbor (Shantanu Anam) who is oblivious to his insensitivity and facing uncertain job prospects. However, how can he secure employment without a work visa?

While the film is bold and occasionally sharp, it loses its focus as Maansi's role expands. The drug-fueled escapades at her ashram and her interactions with Michael overshadow his narrative and diminish the audience's interest in his journey.

Samuel Abiola Robinson, known for his role in the Malayalam comedy Sudani From Nigeria (2018), effectively portrays Michael as a character enduring constant hardship. His persistent gloom and innocence do not lessen the severity of his situation.

Among the supporting cast, Stutee Ghosh delivers a memorable performance as a wealthy woman seeking a child, consulting Maansi. Various actors in minor roles effectively depict the unthinking racism associated with dark skin and foreigners, a reputation that Delhi and India as a whole grapple with.

The film courageously reflects societal ugliness but ultimately tries to juggle too many characters. Although Dilli Dark strays from its grotesque edge, it features standout moments, including a humorous dream sequence and a comical incident involving leftover meat in a fridge.