Imtiaz Ali’s latest, Main Vaapas Aaunga, attempts to show ‘what’ magic love does, woven into a carefully stitched storyline set in the pre- and post-partition eras. Though the film is a romantic love saga, at its core, it is about personal losses, memories, and the traumas left behind by the partition, turning the major historical event into a most horrifying moment. The film is jointly produced by Birla Studios and Applause Entertainment.
Plot
The film follows the tale of Nirvair, played by Diljit Dosanjh, a London-based tech professional who discovers his grandfather’s worsening health. The grandfather, played by Naseeruddin Shah, is consumed by memories of his past, particularly the place where he was born, Sargodha, now a town in Pakistan. While keeping himself strong throughout his life, the old man, affected by dementia, has his memories fade, but one thing he doesn’t forget is his longing to return to Sargodha.
However, Nirvair, unaware of his grandfather’s past, weaves the pieces of the past to understand what is haunting his grandfather, which takes the timeline back to pre-partition and introduces Kinnu, played by Vedang Raina. Kinnu is the younger version of Nirvair’s grandfather, and the story then brings Afsana, played by Sharvari, the woman Kinnu loves. Their love saga unfolds during the partition era, which forcibly separates families, leading Kinnu to leave his home behind. What follows is best experienced by watching it yourself, which ensures a magical ride of love, longing, and partition.
What Works
Main Vaapas Aaunga’s greatest strength lies in the emotional connection it builds with viewers. From how a grandson gets curious to fulfill his grandfather’s last wish, the timeline of pre-partition time focusing on Kinnu and Afsana’s true love, to how partition leaves a lifetime of memories, now filled with pain, longing, and traumas—at every stage, the storyline hits emotions like the classic Imtiaz Ali’s style, including themes of love, longing, nostalgia, and layered characters.
What Doesn’t Work
Well, the main problem in the film is the pacing. The film opens on a good note, but as it progresses, it feels a bit stretched as Imtiaz Ali explores the layered characters in his storyline, which is engaging, but at points it feels off. While the first half is fine, the second half is deeply engaging, keeping viewers glued to the scene. It is a must-watch; you may think you know the story, but the ending will surprise you.
Direction, Craft, Music & Others
Imtiaz Ali is known for his unique love takes, and this one is no exception. The film has all the signature touches, and it never feels too much. With fine portrayals, he helps the characters touch viewers’ hearts and keep them invested. Cinematography is a key factor, and Sylvester Fonseca does his work with precision, attempting to show the pre- and post-partition eras, from romantic scenes to the harsh partition moment; the story resonates. Cherry on the cake is the music by A.R Rahman. His songs bring soul to the narrative, turning it even more engaging.
Perfomances
The veteran Naseeruddin Shah is the star of the film. Yet again, with his layered character, he proves why he is regarded as a fine artist. An old man with dementia, longing for his love, the actor delivers one of his best performances with sheer grace and charm.
The most touching scene was when Naseeruddin tries to tell his grandson Nirvair what is haunting him; that moment lingers even after watching the film. Amidst the emotionally overwhelming storyline, the film breathes softness and romance with Kinnu and Afsana’s lovely moments.
Diljit Dosanjh as Nirvair is a heart. The actor convincingly plays his part, adding meaning to the storyline. Vedang as young Kinnu is charming. In the pre-partition look, with a pagadi on his head, he looked charming while effectively balancing the emotional tones of his character. Sharvari as Afsana is a delight. She is simple and beautiful; while she appeared all sweet, her character deserved more. Rajat Kapoor, as usual, brings purpose with his presence, while Manish Chaudhari leaves a lasting impact.
Overall, Main Vaapas Aaunga is a magical, soulful delight that subtly explores love, longing, and the traumas left behind due to the partition. While the film breathes through the love saga of Kinnu and Afsana, when you leave the theatre, your mind is consumed by the high emotions that partition brought.
IWMBuzz rates Main Vaapas Aaunga 3.5 out of 5 stars.
