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Maachis (transl. Matchsticks) is a 1996 Indian period political thriller film written and directed by Gulzar. The film stars Chandrachur Singh, Om Puri, Tabu, and Jimmy Sheirgill in pivotal roles. Set against the backdrop of the Sikh insurgency in Punjab during the 1980s, it delves into the personal and political turmoil faced by individuals caught in the violence, and explores themes of state repression, vengeance, and the radicalization of youth.