Main Vaapas Aaunga focuses on two parallel tracks, but this is not Love Aaj Kal. It also differs from other partition dramas because the focus is not just on the one who witnessed the horrors but also on his family. The love story is sweet while the present-day track keeps viewers captivated. Imtiaz Ali reserves the best for the last 20 minutes. On the flipside, a few scenes are random, and the direction gets incoherent in some places. Viewers don’t fully understand what exactly happened with a crucial character. The makers touch upon an important issue of inter-generational trauma, but they do not establish it properly. The music, shockingly, is forgettable. This is among Naseeruddin Shah’s most accomplished works in his illustrious career. However, the makers need to release the film with subtitles in all cinemas. Without subs, one won’t fully grasp what he’s uttering. Diljit Dosanjh is natural and charming as always. Sharvari leaves a huge mark despite limited screen time. She flawlessly looks and acts the part of a girl whom a man loves for almost 78 years. Vedang Raina dominates several key scenes and proves his worth. Banita Sandhu (Kaveri), Rajat Kapoor (Iqbal Grewal), Anjana Sukhani (Meher), Manish Chaudhari (Muzaffar), Danish Pandor (Afzal), Satnam Singh (Pali) and Abhay Rana (young Pali) do well in supporting roles. Dolly Ahluwalia (Ishar’s grandmother) does not have much to do initially, but is very memorable in a crucial scene. All in all, Main Vaapas Aaunga is worth watching for its subject and finale.
My rating – *** out of 5!