Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan’s most recent cinematic offering, “Dunki,” has officially hit theaters. Released on December 21, this comedy-drama delves into the clandestine immigration maneuver known as the “donkey route,” employed by individuals seeking entry into countries such as the US, UK, and Canada.
The film, Khan’s third release this year, narrates the tale of four friends hailing from a village in Punjab, India, aspiring to journey to England. However, a significant hurdle presents itself as none of them possesses a visa or a ticket. In their pursuit of a global crossing, the group encounters a soldier who pledges to guide them to the “land of dreams.”
Describing the movie as a “journey that will take you through a madcap ride of friendship, the comedy and tragedy that life is, and a nostalgia for home and family,” Khan sheds light on the movie’s title at a recent event in Dubai. “Dunki” symbolizes an illicit journey taken by many to exit their countries across borders worldwide, commonly referred to as “Donkey travels.”
The term “donkey flights” or “donkey route” originates from the Punjabi word “dunki,” signifying to “hop from place to place.” This illegal method entails people traversing a country’s borders through a covert route with multiple stops in other nations. For instance, individuals may apply for a tourist visa for European Union Schengen countries, allowing free movement across 26 bordering nations. Subsequently, “agents” aid in illegal entry into the UK.
The dangers associated with this method are significant, encompassing risks such as imprisonment, deportation, and even death. According to the US Customs and Border Protection, between February 2019 and March 2023, 149,000 Indians were detained for attempting illegal entry into the US, with a notable concentration from Gujarat and Punjab.
Instances of tragedy abound, with reports of individuals losing their lives after being taken through the “donkey route.” The modus operandi involves substantial payments to agents who may employ perilous means, including fake paperwork and smuggling through shipping containers.
Despite authorities’ efforts to curb this practice, it persists, with individuals risking their lives for a chance at a better future abroad. Khan’s latest film aims to shed light on the method’s complexities and challenges. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, “Dunki” features a stellar cast including Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, and Boman Irani, with a screenplay co-written by Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, and Kanika Dhillon.
