Heartwarming yet unconventional, this 2018 Bollywood film brings together humor, drama, and the cultural clash of generations with a story set against the vibrant and bustling backdrop of Old Delhi. Directed by Leena Yadav, it stars Rishi Kapoor as Raj Mathur, a recently widowed father, and Anirudh Tanwar as his estranged son, Kabir. The film, aptly titled after the quintessential Indian comfort food, captures both the essence of a father-son relationship and the bittersweet flavors of life itself. This drama-comedy melds family conflict with societal transitions, as it explores the widening generation gap in the digital age and the ways people try to bridge it.
The story follows Raj Mathur, who, struggling to cope with his wife’s death and his son’s distant attitude, makes an unconventional decision to get closer to Kabir. When Kabir moves to Delhi to pursue a career in music, his father, worried about losing his son, devises a rather quirky plan. He creates a fake online profile, befriending Kabir on social media to reach his son in a way traditional methods have failed. Through this fictional profile, Raj learns about his son’s life, dreams, and his pain, but this virtual identity comes with its own set of complications. As Kabir opens up to his “friend” with intimate details, Raj realizes that connecting with his son on a deeper level may be more challenging than he thought. What follows is a journey of misunderstandings, heartwarming moments, and lessons about honesty and familial bonds.
One of the film’s strongest elements is the performance by Rishi. His portrayal of Raj, a well-meaning yet overbearing father, is both heartfelt and humorous. Rishi, known for his comedic timing, slips seamlessly into Raj’s shoes, making the character’s desperation to reconnect with his son both endearing and amusing. His gestures, expressions, and interactions with Kabir radiate authenticity, portraying the character as a flawed yet loving father trying to make sense of the modern world. Anirudh, as Kabir, holds his own opposite Rishi’s seasoned performance. He convincingly portrays the frustration and emotional turmoil of a young man navigating loss, ambition, and family expectations. Their contrasting energies add to the tension and humor that make their relationship a driving force of the film.
The direction by Leena Yadav adds a refreshing perspective to a familiar family drama. Rather than dwelling on clichés, she brings a realistic portrayal of family dynamics and the impact of technology on relationships. Yadav’s approach to the narrative is reflective, allowing each character the space to reveal their insecurities, motivations, and growth without rushing through emotional arcs. By weaving humor into serious moments, she keeps the film’s tone balanced, preventing it from veering into melodrama. Additionally, her depiction of Old Delhi is lively and colorful, capturing the essence of a neighborhood steeped in tradition yet adapting to the winds of change. Her directorial vision shines especially in scenes where the city itself feels like a character, contributing to the characters’ journeys and struggles.
The cinematography, crafted by Donald McAlpine, deserves special mention. McAlpine’s work beautifully captures the chaos and charm of Old Delhi’s streets, from bustling markets to intimate indoor spaces. His use of contrasting colors and lighting highlights the division between the traditional and modern, subtly underscoring the film’s themes of change and acceptance. There are frames that focus on Delhi’s monuments, narrow lanes, and bustling crowd, giving the film an authentic cultural setting. These vibrant visuals effectively echo the inner lives of the characters, particularly in scenes where Raj and Kabir, lost in their respective worlds, are portrayed against the rich, textured backdrop of the city.
The film’s music and soundtrack add a poignant layer to the narrative. Alokananda Dasgupta’s background score is understated but complements the story well, blending seamlessly with the emotional beats of the plot. Songs like “Tere Bin” reflect the unspoken tension and longing between Raj and Kabir, offering a sense of nostalgia and reflection. The choice of tracks feels natural to the story, enhancing its themes of familial connection and introspection. Unlike typical Bollywood soundtracks, the music here does not overpower the narrative but rather weaves through it like a thread, gently amplifying the emotions without stealing the spotlight.
Costume design plays an integral role in visually narrating the differences between Raj and Kabir. Raj’s wardrobe reflects his traditional and somewhat old-fashioned persona, with his simple sweaters and kurtas giving insight into his character’s down-to-earth lifestyle. Kabir, on the other hand, embodies modernity, seen in his more contemporary and urban wardrobe that reflects his youth and dreams of breaking free from familial expectations. This contrast in styling visually reinforces the generational gap and adds authenticity to their characters, making their identities more distinct and relatable.
One interesting thematic aspect is the film’s commentary on the digital age and the way it alters communication. In creating a fictional persona to interact with his son, Raj’s character symbolizes the older generation’s struggle to adapt to a world that prioritizes virtual connections over face-to-face conversations. This element serves as a subtle critique on how technology, while bridging distances, can often mask true identities and lead to miscommunication. By presenting Raj’s journey from an initial fascination with social media to the realization of its limitations, the film encourages viewers to consider the role of authenticity and transparency in relationships.
This story of a father and son navigating their differences is both touching and insightful. The film doesn’t aim to provide easy answers; rather, it reflects the complex, sometimes clumsy, attempts we make to connect with our loved ones. The narrative’s simplicity and relatability make it endearing, while Rishi Kapoor’s nuanced performance as a traditional father lost in a digital world brings a depth that stays with the viewer long after the credits roll. The supporting cast, including the talented Aparshakti Khurana, adds a lively spark, bringing humor and charm to the storyline without detracting from the main narrative.
Overall, this movie is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the universal desire for connection. With its mix of humor and poignancy, it resonates on multiple levels, making it enjoyable for audiences across age groups. Its refreshing take on family dynamics and generational gaps, along with a stellar performance by Rishi, makes it a commendable watch. For those who enjoy a light-hearted film with a sprinkle of emotion, this movie is worth a watch. It’s a gentle reminder of the ways we try — sometimes comically, sometimes clumsily — to connect, understand, and ultimately love those closest to us.
