Directed by Abhishek Saxena, Bandaa Singh Chaudhary stars Arshad Warsi and Meher Vij in pivotal roles. Read the whole review here…
Director: Abhishek Saxena
Cast: Arshad Warsi, Meher Vij, Kiara Khanna, Shataf Figar, Shilpi Marwaha, Jeeveshu Ahluwalia, Alisha Chopra
Where to watch: Theatres
Runtime: 114 minutes
Producers: Arbaaz Khan, Manish Mishra
Ratings: 3/5
Plot : Bandaa Singh Chaudhary is a common man settled in Punjab being threatened to leave his pind (village) by ISI militants. Set during 1971 Indo-Pak war’s aftermath, communal riots in Punjab. A man fights for rights, family’s survival amid division, violence. An ordinary man fights to protect his family’s rights and survive amidst deep divisions and violence. With his family`s life on the line, what will Bandaa Singh do? Leave his home or fight back?
What We Loved : The film goes beyond a simple love story, portraying the battle for identity, justice, and the resolve to carve out one’s own place in the world. Through the character of Banda, we witness the struggles faced by many individuals in society during that era.
What We Liked : The dynamic between Warsi and Vij is one of the film’s highlights—their bond comes across as authentic, built on love, mutual respect, and the shared challenges of survival. Their playful exchanges, much like those of many Indian couples, bring a sense of warmth and familiarity to the otherwise intense storyline.
Performances : Arshad Warsi’s return to a leading role is a triumph. Renowned for his comedic talent, he reveals a new side as the stoic Banda Singh, mastering the regional dialect and conveying fear, love, and anger with subtlety. His restrained, authentic performance makes Banda an everyman, reluctantly stepping into the hero’s role when his family and way of life are at risk.
Meher Vij excels as Lalli, Banda’s wife, portraying a strong yet vulnerable woman who balances family love with bravery in the face of danger. As the heart of the family, Vij beautifully captures Lalli’s essence, especially when her maternal instincts are challenged by the surrounding violence. Following her success in Secret Superstar, Vij once again proves her ability to bring depth to her roles.
Conclusion : Banda Singh Chaudhary celebrates the strength of the human spirit, showing how ordinary people can become heroes in dark times. With standout performances by Arshad Warsi and Meher Vij, a strong script, and a sensitive take on history, it’s a must-watch for fans of courage and resilience. The film remains clean and family-friendly, addressing serious themes while maintaining a focus on hope and humanity.
