First Rank Raju

Of late, we have been seeing how school and college students are tragically ending their precious lives due to excessive pressure to excel in studies and get top ranks for a ‘successful future’.

A lethargic narration of an otherwise important and interesting plot is the major drawback of the film. Especially, the first half is entirely used to establish First Rank Raju’s naive and innocent characterization, one scene after the other.

On the whole, First Rank Raju is a satire on today’s education system and how the unending parents and teachers’ expectations are pushing the students to the extremes.

There have been many films that have been made on the cons of the education system in India. The focus on securing that first rank and not concentrate on the overall development of the students. 

In this process, Raju's parents chalk out a list of things for Raju to do to become a street smart individual, coaching him to make friends with the 'cool' gang and even playing Cupid for him. 

Director Naresh Kumar has come up with an entertaining film, where the message isn't forced.