The escapades of the duo, Khalujan (Naseeruddin Shah) and Babban (Arshad Warsi), continue in Dedh Ishqiya. The begum (Madhuri Dixit-Nene) of Mahmudabad holds a yearly gathering of poets. Khalujan reaches there in the guise of the Nawab of Chandpur. Soon, he falls in love with the begum. His partner Babban joins him, and he too falls for the maid, Munira (Huma Qureshi).
Will Khalujan be able to win the begum’s heart? What lies ahead for Babban? The story unfolds in the second half that is studded with commendable twists and turns. There are some good dance performances by Madhuri Dixit-Nene accompanied by lovely music. There is plenty of shayari in the movie, especially in the first half. The movie has subtitles in English just in case one cannot follow the Urdu that is spoken. In the audience, one can hear chuckles that are off and on through the duration of the movie on account of the cheesy one-liners.
Madhuri Dixit-Nene makes her comeback to the big screen with this movie. She has got a meaty character and performs her part with élan. Huma Qureshi has given a nice performance as the wily maid. Of course, the real stars of the movie are Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi, proving once again that they share an unbelievable chemistry.
The rustic backdrop is well portrayed in the movie. The language that is highbrow takes getting used to. The first half of the movie nicely builds up the story that takes it seamlessly through the second half. Those who are looking to spend an evening in the company of nice shayari and lovely music will enjoy Dedh Ishqiya thoroughly. It is not everyone’s cup of tea though, and the teens might find it old school.
There are many reasons you should give Dedh Ishqiya a shot. Among them are fine performances, a riveting story, beautiful language and nice music. It makes for a perfect evening at the theatre, although a word of caution is warranted here: this movie is not meant for kids.
Kunal @ lyricsmusic.org
January 10, 2014I was not sure about the movie before, to watch it or not but after reading the review i am planning to go for it.
Pritam Nagrale
January 11, 2014I liked the Ishqiya-1 & I feel its better than part-1. I have booked tomorrow’s ticket after reading your review.
Sophie Kothari
January 12, 2014Your review of the film tempts me to see the movie, especially as you say it is spiced with good language, urdu shayari and lovely music.Though I am learning urdu, if it is highbrow, it may be beyond me but I hope the sub-titles will help. The story seems to be quite interesting.
Sophie.