Dhadak

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**Review Summary: *Dhadak***

*Dhadak*, an official remake of the Marathi hit *Sairat*, reimagines the story of star-crossed lovers in the vibrant settings of Udaipur and Kolkata. Madhukar (Ishaan Khatter) and Parthavi (Janhvi Kapoor) belong to contrasting social strata, yet their love blossoms despite family opposition and societal constraints. Their journey begins with a breezy romance but soon spirals into the harsh realities of life when they elope and face struggles that test their commitment.

Unlike *Sairat*, which delved deeply into caste politics and its brutal consequences, *Dhadak* focuses primarily on the love story, steering away from the socio-political undertones of the original. The film’s first half, set in picturesque Rajasthan, captures the freshness of young love with visually stunning backdrops and a charming chemistry between the leads. The second half shifts to Kolkata, portraying the gritty challenges of survival, starkly contrasting the dreamy beginnings. This duality—romance versus reality—gives the narrative its emotional heft.

Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter carry the film with their natural performances and palpable chemistry. Ishaan brings vulnerability and sincerity to Madhukar, while Janhvi impresses with her portrayal of Parthavi’s emotional arc, balancing affection and frustration convincingly. Despite being a debutant, Janhvi displays commendable composure, making her performance even more praiseworthy considering her personal loss during the film’s production. Ashutosh Rana delivers a chilling performance as Parthavi's controlling father, adding a layer of menace to the story.

The cinematography is a standout, with Rajasthan’s grandeur and Kolkata’s raw charm vividly captured to enhance the storytelling. The film’s strength lies in its ability to depict love’s imperfections, showing that relationships are not just about romance but also about resilience. However, *Dhadak* doesn’t match the raw intensity of *Sairat*, as it opts for a more polished and mainstream appeal. While the emotional depth is present, it’s tempered to suit a broader audience.

*Dhadak* may lack the unfiltered grit of its predecessor, but it compensates with heartfelt moments and moving performances. Prepare for an emotional ride, especially in its heart-wrenching climax—tissues are highly recommended.