Dum Laga Ke Haisha

Director – Sharat Katariya

Cast – Ayushmann Khurrana, Bhumi Pednekar, Sanjay Mishra

'My body weight will always be something that I’ll struggle with for the rest of my life, but I’m finally in a good place and learning to love me for me, and not somebody else's standards.’ 

                                    Khole Kardashian

The best part about ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha' is that it does not stereotype plus size women. Instead, the new YashRaj product takes us on a quick journey into the life of a guy, which is turned upside down, due to his unwillingness to accept the girl, just for her weight.

Set in Haridwar in 1995, the film ventures into the life of Prem Tiwari (Ayushmann), a school dropout and a regular RSS Shakha member. He runs his father’s music store and is a big fan of Kumar Sanu. His parents marry him to Sandhya (Bhumi) against his wishes. Other than her obesity the only problem with Bhumi is that she is better educated. Despite Sandhya’s repeated attempts, Prem refuses to accept her.

Sharat Kataria gets full marks for directing. He manages to recreate UP Grihasthi with ease. The simple locations and typical language contribute to it. Anu Malik is back is action after a long hiatus. His tunes take you back to the melodies of the 90’s.

Ayushmann Khuranna has matured while Bhumi Pednekar makes an excellent debut as Sandhya. Watch out for the scenes in which she goes to world’s end to gain her husband’s attention. Sanjay Mishra is the pick of the supports as Prem’s father. He never lets go of an opportunity to find flaws in his son.

Agadbam, a 2010 Marathi film was made on a similar concept. However, the lead actress Trupti Bhoir used prosthetics to look fat and Makrand Anaspure was a turn off. The Hindi counterpart is much better in terms of quality and naturality.

I am going with four stars out of five and two big thumbs up for ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’. You’ll learn to respect women for their heart and not for their looks.