Finally, Bollywood is officially out of the closet with the release of this film. Love will now be celebrated in a new dimension and that's a milestone to rejoice. Earlier we have seen films like Aligarh, Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga, My Brother Nikhil, Kapoor and Sons, etc. which speak about same-sex relationships. While some of them were appreciated, they did not make a mark at the box office. Films are meant to be entertaining and in today's time where makers are planning to share a social message, it is important for the team to present a movie which does both.
Shubh Mangal Zyaada Saavdhaan starts with Kartik (Ayushmann Khurrana) and Aman's (Jitendra Kumar) love story. Two gay men are in love with each other. While Kartik is out of the closet, Aman isn't. They decide to meet Aman's family during his cousin's Goggle aka Rajini's (Maanvi Gagroo) wedding. During the train journey, Aman's father (Gajraj Rao) happens to see the men kiss, and his dream of getting him married to a girl shatters. The story unfolds there. What happens in the family post is both a good blend of laughter and an emotional riot.
Shubh Mangal Zyaada Saavdhaan is the second film after Shubh Mangal Saavdhaan which was also directed by Hitesh Kewalya. In this film, Hitesh's writing and direction once again become the strength of the narrative. One may not like the comical dependency the story takes to deliver the message, but think about it wisely - is our country ready for a serious film? Not at all. We have had films in the past which have not been appreciated for being too serious, too naive, and various reasons. The background of a small town is definitely safe and repetitive but works with such stories which need to reach the mass.
Further, Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhaan is well balanced with the narrative, as the story about same-sex relationships, familial problems are well wrapped with characters which make you laugh. Ayushmann and Jitu's characters are different from each other and you will incline towards the one that's most relatable. Having said that, it's a good vision to break the stereotype, thankfully with some masculinity. Ayushmann as Kartik is flamboyant and a proud gay man, who lives life on his terms, without caring about the society. Jitendra as Aman is not open to the family. Hence not very sure of what his family would feel - a plight which many gay men and women around the world feel.
All the other characters in the film make a mark. Despite being a gay love story, Hitesh has ensured that they all have an equal part in Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhaan and this makes the film special as you can relate to everybody's story. Gajraj Rao and Neena Gupta have proved their chemistry with their previous film and this time again, they are the best. Their duo shines throughout the film and lightens the mood whenever needed. All the other characters have also delivered their work phenomenally well.
Overall, Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhaan releases at the best time - when India needs to accept LGBTQ community with open arms. The film's emotions are relatable and translate with wonderful dialogues. While you may get teary at times, the film makes you laugh with well-sketched comedy. This is one of the bold releases in Bollywood, which has opened doors and opportunities for many filmmakers. Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhaan is as colourful as a pride flag. Go for it.
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