It’s hard to imagine how losing a car can lead to an entire film’s worth of chaos, comedy, and heartfelt moments, but that’s exactly what happens in Mere Dad Ki Maruti. Released in 2013, this Bollywood comedy stars Saqib Saleem, Rhea Chakraborty, and Ram Kapoor in a fun, high-energy romp through the streets of Chandigarh. Directed by Ashima Chibber, the film is set against the backdrop of a typical Punjabi wedding, combining family drama, youthful rebellion, and a classic misadventure involving a missing car. This youthful, vibrant comedy is grounded in relatable family dynamics and bursts with color and energy.
The story revolves around Sameer (Saqib), a reckless college student who “borrows” his father’s brand-new Maruti car to impress Jasleen (Rhea), a girl he’s trying to woo. His father, Tej Khullar (Ram), has bought the car as a wedding gift for Sameer’s sister, and when Sameer loses the car during a night of showing off, chaos ensues. What follows is a madcap journey as Sameer desperately tries to recover the missing car before his father finds out, leading to a series of comedic mishaps. Throughout the movie, the stakes rise as the family’s wedding preparations intensify, and Sameer’s life spirals into further disarray as his secret gets harder to hide.
The standout aspect of the film is the acting, particularly from Saqib and Ram. Saqib’s portrayal of the irresponsible yet endearing Sameer is spot on. His boyish charm and natural comic timing carry the film through its lighter and more chaotic moments. Saqib perfectly captures the essence of a young man stuck between his carefree attitude and the weight of his father’s expectations. Ram, on the other hand, as the gruff yet loving patriarch, is a powerhouse. His no-nonsense attitude and obsession with his new car make him the perfect foil for Sameer’s antics. The tension between the two characters, as Sameer tries to cover up his misadventure while Tej demands perfection, forms the emotional core of the film. Rhea, as Jasleen, brings a refreshing energy to the film, though her character is somewhat underutilized in the overall narrative.
Direction by Ashima is crisp and ensures that the film moves at a steady pace. She manages to balance the comedic and emotional beats effectively, never letting one aspect overpower the other. The writing, too, is light and breezy, peppered with Punjabi humor that feels authentic and fun. The film’s screenplay doesn’t dig deep into complex themes, but that’s also its strength—it’s meant to be a fun ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously. What works here is the relatability of the story. Anyone who’s had a strict father or ever tried to sneak around their parents can see themselves in Sameer’s shoes, making the film’s premise both funny and familiar.
Cinematography plays a key role in bringing out the lively atmosphere of Chandigarh. Adil Afsar’s camera work captures the vibrancy of the city and the madness of the wedding preparations with equal flair. The colorful Punjabi setting is alive with bustling markets, extravagant wedding functions, and lively streets, all of which add to the festive feel of the film. The car chase scenes and the frantic search for the missing Maruti are shot with a sense of urgency and chaos that aligns with the film’s fast-paced energy. The camera work never feels over-the-top, instead complementing the light-hearted tone of the film.
Musically, the film keeps up the energetic tempo with tracks like “Punjabiyaan Di Battery,” which perfectly captures the movie’s festive and fun vibe. The soundtrack by Sachin-Jigar fits well with the film’s setting, with peppy numbers that add to the overall mood. The music helps amplify the comedic sequences, especially when paired with Sameer’s escalating problems. The background score is equally fitting, enhancing the comedic timing and transitions between scenes without being intrusive.
Costume design in the film is another aspect that subtly enhances the characters and the setting. The traditional Punjabi outfits during the wedding scenes add to the visual appeal, while Sameer’s casual, youthful wardrobe contrasts with his father’s more formal, conservative style, subtly highlighting the generational gap between them. Jasleen’s fashion, too, stands out as youthful and modern, aligning her with the carefree, independent character she portrays.
The editing by Antara Lahiri deserves praise as well. The film clocks in at around 100 minutes, making it a tight, engaging watch without any unnecessary dragging. The pacing keeps you hooked, with the stakes rising as Sameer gets deeper into trouble. The fast cuts during the chase scenes and the comedic sequences help maintain the film’s brisk energy, ensuring the audience is always entertained.
Despite its many strengths, the film isn’t without flaws. Some of the plot points feel a bit too convenient, and a few of the jokes lean into predictable territory. The love story between Sameer and Jasleen also feels underdeveloped, serving more as a side plot than an integral part of the narrative. The focus remains primarily on the father-son dynamic, which is heartwarming but could have been balanced better with other elements. Nonetheless, these minor shortcomings don’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the film.
In conclusion, Mere Dad Ki Maruti is a fun, light-hearted comedy that hits the right notes when it comes to family entertainment. It’s the kind of movie that makes you laugh, cringe at the protagonist’s missteps, and root for him to make things right. Saqib and Ram’s performances, combined with Ashima’s sharp direction, ensure that the film is more than just another Bollywood comedy—it’s a charming and relatable story about family, responsibility, and, of course, a missing car. If you’re looking for a breezy watch filled with humor and heart, this one is worth your time.
