Some movies are more than just love stories—they’re celebrations of life, ambition, and the chaos of following your dreams. Band Baaja Baaraat is one such film, a vibrant romantic comedy that captures the colorful world of Indian weddings while telling a story about two ambitious individuals learning the complexities of love and business. Released in 2010, this film marks the debut of Ranveer Singh alongside Anushka Sharma, directed by Maneesh Sharma. Set in the heart of Delhi, the story weaves its magic in the fast-paced, exuberant world of wedding planning, combining romance, drama, and comedy in equal measure.
The plot follows Bittoo Sharma (Ranveer), a carefree college student, and Shruti Kakkar (Anushka), a determined young woman with big dreams of becoming a successful wedding planner. They form a partnership to start their own business, ‘Shaadi Mubarak,’ with one clear rule—no mixing business with personal life. Their venture quickly takes off, and their chemistry is undeniable, but as they grow closer, emotions start to blur the lines between friendship and love. What starts as a professional collaboration soon leads to complications, both in their business and their personal lives, as they struggle to navigate their feelings while keeping their business afloat.
The performances in Band Baaja Baaraat are a major highlight, particularly Ranveer’s energetic debut as Bittoo. His raw charm and impeccable comic timing make him instantly likable, and he brings an authenticity to the role of a Delhi boy with big dreams but no direction. Ranveer effortlessly portrays Bittoo’s carefree attitude, but as the film progresses, he also conveys the character’s emotional growth with subtlety. One of his standout scenes is when Bittoo realizes the gravity of his feelings for Shruti—Ranveer’s expressions and delivery bring a sense of vulnerability that contrasts with his otherwise fun-loving persona. Anushka is equally impressive as Shruti, delivering a strong, confident performance as a no-nonsense girl focused on achieving her goals. Her portrayal of Shruti’s professionalism, mixed with her own internal conflict as she grapples with her growing feelings for Bittoo, is convincing. Anushka brings depth to Shruti, and her chemistry with Ranveer is electric, making their dynamic the heart of the film.
Maneesh Sharma’s direction adds a distinct freshness to the story. While the premise of two people starting a business and falling in love may seem familiar, the way he presents the world of wedding planning feels vibrant and unique. He ensures that the film’s pacing remains upbeat, with no dull moments. Sharma brings out the nuances of Delhi life, from the bustling streets to the quirky local characters, grounding the film in a specific cultural context that adds to its charm. The director’s use of humor, especially in scenes where Bittoo and Shruti are managing eccentric wedding clients, is done with a light touch, keeping the tone playful and entertaining.
The film’s music, composed by Salim-Sulaiman, plays a pivotal role in enhancing its energy and mood. Songs like “Ainvayi Ainvayi” and “Dum Dum” are peppy, foot-tapping numbers that add to the celebration-like feel of the movie. The soundtrack seamlessly blends with the film’s wedding theme, giving it an infectious energy. The slower romantic track “Tarkeebein” beautifully underscores the emotional tension between Bittoo and Shruti as their feelings for each other evolve. The background score is equally effective, amplifying both the joyous and the emotional moments without overshadowing the narrative.
Visually, Band Baaja Baaraat is a treat for the eyes. Aseem Mishra’s cinematography captures the vibrancy of Delhi’s wedding culture with finesse. The lavish wedding setups, the bustling streets, and the colorful chaos of middle-class Delhi are portrayed with a rich, lively aesthetic. Mishra uses bright, bold colors throughout the film, reflecting the festive and celebratory nature of Indian weddings, which becomes an extension of the film’s overall mood. The cinematography is particularly striking during the wedding sequences, where the grandeur and chaos are captured beautifully, making the viewer feel like a part of the celebrations. The camerawork also focuses on close-ups during the more intimate, emotional moments, especially in scenes where Bittoo and Shruti’s tension escalates, allowing the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The costume design by Niharika Khan deserves a mention as well. The characters’ wardrobes not only reflect their personalities but also the cultural setting. Shruti’s outfits, especially during wedding scenes, reflect her traditional yet modern sensibilities, while Bittoo’s casual, laid-back style emphasizes his carefree, street-smart persona. The attention to detail in the wedding attire adds authenticity to the film’s portrayal of the wedding business, contributing to the overall believability of the world they inhabit.
One of the film’s strengths is its screenplay, written by Habib Faisal, which combines humor, romance, and emotion in a way that feels natural and engaging. The dialogue is sharp and witty, particularly in the banter between Bittoo and Shruti. The screenplay never lets the film veer into melodrama, keeping it grounded with its relatable characters and situations. Even as the story takes an emotional turn, it maintains a lightness that makes it enjoyable from start to finish. The narrative doesn’t rely on dramatic plot twists, but instead focuses on the organic development of its characters and their relationships, making the resolution feel earned rather than forced.
As much as the film succeeds in most aspects, there are a few moments where the story feels predictable. The trope of “no mixing business with pleasure” is a familiar one, and while the film executes it well, there are points where the plot becomes slightly formulaic. However, the charm of the lead actors and the engaging direction ensure that even the predictable moments don’t take away from the overall experience.
In conclusion, Band Baaja Baaraat is a delightful, feel-good film that effectively balances romance, comedy, and drama while offering a fresh take on the wedding business. The strong performances by Ranveer and Anushka, paired with Maneesh Sharma’s vibrant direction, make it an enjoyable watch. The film’s music, visuals, and cultural authenticity add to its charm, making it a memorable experience for audiences who enjoy light-hearted romantic comedies with emotional depth. For anyone looking for a film that’s entertaining, relatable, and full of heart, this one is a must-watch.
