Unrequited love, nostalgia, and the emotional baggage that comes with growing up set the tone for a breezy yet melancholic romance. Starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Parineeti Chopra, Meri Pyaari Bindu is a film that weaves the past and present together, set mostly in Kolkata, with occasional glimpses into the protagonists’ lives in Mumbai. Directed by Akshay Roy, this romantic drama with musical undertones takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of friendship, love, and dreams left unfulfilled. The film oscillates between the genres of romance and drama, wrapped in the soothing tones of nostalgia.
The story revolves around Abhimanyu (Ayushmann), a pulp fiction writer who returns to his childhood home in Kolkata to finish his book. As he sits down to write, memories of his free-spirited childhood friend Bindu (Parineeti) flood his thoughts. Bindu, a quirky and ambitious aspiring singer, has always been Abhi’s muse and the love of his life. The film unfolds through a series of flashbacks as Abhi reflects on his relationship with Bindu, from their childhood bond to his unrequited love as they grow older. Bindu’s restless pursuit of her singing career takes her away from Abhi, yet their connection remains unresolved, leaving him to confront the harsh reality of love that may never be returned.
One of the most endearing aspects of the film is the acting. Ayushmann shines as Abhi, delivering a performance that is both subtle and emotionally resonant. He captures the essence of a man hopelessly in love, yet too aware of the one-sidedness of his feelings. His portrayal of Abhi’s vulnerability and longing is relatable, making you root for him even when the odds are stacked against him. Parineeti, on the other hand, brings Bindu to life with her lively and carefree attitude. Her character is a whirlwind of ambition and spontaneity, and Parineeti nails this with her natural charm. However, Bindu’s character lacks depth at certain points, which sometimes makes it hard to understand the decisions she makes. That said, both leads share palpable chemistry that drives the emotional core of the film, especially during the light-hearted moments of their youth and the deeper, more poignant scenes as adults.
Direction by Akshay Roy is commendable for capturing the essence of nostalgia, which is the backbone of the film. The flashbacks are handled with ease, flowing smoothly between the past and present without jarring the viewer. What works in the film’s favor is how it uses the concept of storytelling. The novel that Abhi is writing serves as a metaphor for his life, adding an extra layer of introspection. Roy’s direction keeps the narrative personal and reflective, allowing the viewer to feel like they’re walking down memory lane with the characters.
Cinematography by Tushar Kanti Ray deserves mention, as it perfectly complements the tone of the film. Kolkata is captured in its full old-world charm, from the narrow streets and yellow taxis to the colonial architecture, which adds a layer of warmth to the narrative. The way the city is filmed enhances the nostalgic atmosphere, making it more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right. The contrast between Kolkata’s laid-back vibes and the fast-paced, glossy world of Mumbai is visually striking, adding texture to the emotional journey of the characters.
Music is another highlight of the film, with Sachin-Jigar delivering a soulful soundtrack that mirrors the emotional beats of the story. Songs like “Maana Ke Hum Yaar Nahin” capture the bittersweet essence of unfulfilled love, with Parineeti showcasing her vocal talents in a standout performance. The music flows seamlessly with the narrative, accentuating the feelings of joy, heartbreak, and nostalgia that are central to the plot. The background score is subtle but effective, never overpowering the scenes but enhancing the mood perfectly. It’s one of those rare films where the music doesn’t just support the story, but feels like a part of it, enhancing the emotional resonance of each moment.
Costume design is understated but fitting, reflecting the personalities and transitions of the characters. Abhi’s transformation from a carefree, youthful man to a more somber, mature adult is visible in his wardrobe, while Bindu’s vibrant and eclectic fashion choices mirror her adventurous and free-spirited personality. The costumes serve as an extension of their evolving lives, particularly in flashbacks where their younger selves are filled with dreams and an untamed sense of freedom.
Another aspect that deserves appreciation is the dialogue, written by Suprotim Sengupta. The film’s conversations are infused with humor, poignancy, and a sense of realism, particularly in the moments between Abhi and Bindu. The banter between the two feels natural, their camaraderie shines through, and their emotional confrontations feel raw and believable. The dialogues keep the story engaging and emotionally charged, without slipping into melodrama.
Despite its strengths, the film falters slightly in its pacing. The second half feels a bit stretched, and while the flashbacks work well in the beginning, they become slightly repetitive as the film progresses. Bindu’s character, although vibrant, lacks the development needed to fully understand her motivations, leaving the viewer occasionally disconnected from her journey. While Abhi’s emotional arc is well fleshed out, Bindu’s story seems more fragmented, which affects the overall balance of the narrative.
In the end, Meri Pyaari Bindu is a heartwarming tale of unrequited love and the bittersweet nature of relationships. It’s a film that doesn’t promise a fairy-tale ending, but instead, embraces the complexities of love and friendship. Ayushmann’s performance as the lovesick Abhi is the beating heart of the film, while Parineeti brings a spirited energy to the screen. The direction, music, and cinematography work together to create a film that tugs at the heartstrings while offering a dash of light-hearted moments to balance the emotional weight. It’s not a perfect film, but it’s one that leaves a lingering feeling of nostalgia, making you reflect on the paths we take in life and the people we leave behind.
If you’re in the mood for a film that blends the pain of unrequited love with the joy of nostalgia, this one’s for you. While it may not appeal to everyone due to its slower pace and sometimes uneven character development, it’s still a beautiful cinematic experience for those who enjoy stories that celebrate the small, tender moments of life.
