‘Gurugram School Murder’ Book Gets Adaptation From Matchbox Shots
India’s Matchbox Shots has recently acquired the screen rights to “The Gurugram School Murder,” a gripping account of the tragic 2017 killing of a child at an elite school in Gurugram, penned by renowned crime journalist Leena Dhankhar.
The adaptation of this harrowing tale is based on Dhankhar’s in-depth reporting on one of India’s most high-profile criminal cases. The incident, which shook the nation, took place on September 8, 2017, when a seven-year-old boy, known as Prince, was discovered with his throat brutally slit inside a school bathroom. Initially, local authorities apprehended an innocent school bus conductor, only for the Central Bureau of Investigation to later arrest a fellow student. The accused allegedly committed the heinous act to postpone an upcoming examination.
Leading the project is Dikssha Jyote Routray of Matchbox Shots, who expressed her deep sentiments about the tragic event. “What transpired in this case is every parent’s worst nightmare,” Routray stated. “It is not just a tale of crime but also sheds light on the intense pressures faced by young children in today’s urban India. Our aim is to narrate this story with the sensitivity and thoroughness it deserves.”
Echoing Routray’s sentiments, Dhankhar emphasized the emotional toll the incident took on the victim’s family. “This is more than just a crime narrative; it is a poignant account of a family’s anguish and their relentless pursuit of justice,” she explained. “It is our hope that by sharing this story, more people will comprehend the lasting devastation such tragedies leave behind. The family has grappled with this loss every single day, and justice must prevail without compromise.”
The project has the unwavering support of Prince’s father, who remains steadfast in his quest for justice. “Not a day goes by when we don’t think of him or miss him,” he shared. “Our battle for justice has been arduous, and we will continue until those responsible face the severest consequences. It is imperative that the truth reaches a wider audience so that society understands our pain and ensures that no wrongdoer escapes punishment.”
Matchbox Shots, a Mumbai-based production house under the mentorship of filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, is at the helm of this poignant project. Known for their stellar lineup of productions including “Andhadhun,” “Scoop,” “IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack,” and “Khauf,” the company is led by producers Sanjay Routray, Dikssha Jyote Routray, and Sarita Patil. Their upcoming war drama series, “Operation Safed Sagar,” is slated for release on Netflix, further solidifying their reputation for delivering compelling and thought-provoking content.
