Bandaa Singh Chaudhary Review: Arshad Warsi’s period drama lacks emotional impact

The year is 1975, and Sholay and Deewar have been released in India.

Our man Bandaa Singh Chaudhary (Arshad Warsi) in Punjab embodies Amitabh Bachchan’s style and Dharmendra’s romantic personality to woo his lady love (Meher Vij). While the first few minutes of the Abhishek Saxena film look like a period-romantic drama, tragedy strikes soon when her brother questions her marrying a man of another caste (non-Sikh). Her parents shush him saying their family is apolitical, but the base is set for the drama to unfold.

Bandaa Singh Chaudhary sheds light on the challenges faced by Hindus in Punjab after the 1971 India-Pakistan war, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan). In the aftermath, radical forces from both Punjab and the neighboring country united against the Hindus, causing widespread violence. In the chaos, a militant group targets Bandaa, demanding he and his family leave Punjab. True to his character, Bandaa defies the threats, standing his ground to defend his home, land, and freedom.

The subject is unexplored in cinema, and hence the filmmakers had gold in hand. It could have projected the Hindu exodus and the growing radicalism in Punjab with an emotional depth. But instead, what unfolds is a shallow narrative that never truly grips you. While the story touches on important historical issues, including the violence faced by the non-Sikhs, the weak screenplay fails to connect on a deeper level. Even the villains lack menace and the stakes never feel high enough. Even key moments like villagers’ rebellion and support for Bandaa lack emotional weight.

Arshad Warsi delivers an engaging performance in the film’s lighter moments, but his transformation into a revolutionary feels flat. The writing doesn’t even allow the growth of his character to become convincing, especially when he takes on militants. Meher Vij, as Lalli, delivers a solid performance and gets an important moment in the climax.

However, the overall lack of character development even fails her. Child actor Kiara Khanna manages to bring some charm with her innocence and cuteness. Other cast members, including Shataf Figar, Shilpi Marwaha, Jeeveshu Ahluwalia, and Alisha Chopra are functional but quite uninspiring.

The soundtrack is forgettable, with only the title track standing out, though even that feels undercooked. The background score adds some drama, but it’s not enough to lift the film. Running at a crisp 114 minutes, the film avoids overstaying, but it doesn’t fully utilise its time to immerse the audience in the story.

With two major releases, Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 clashing next week, Bandaa Singh Chaudhary will likely have a short stay in theaters. If you are already busy prepping for the festivities, you can give it a miss. Otherwise, you can book a ticket if you want to skip mummy’s ghar ki safaai (home cleaning) orders.