Neeraj Pandey, known for his gripping narratives involving spies and government agents, ventures into the romantic genre with Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha. The film stars Ajay Devgn and Tabu, two stalwarts of Indian cinema, whose presence often redeems even the weakest of scripts. However, in this latest offering, even their combined star power struggles to breathe life into a lackluster storyline.
Plot Overview
Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha attempts to tell the story of Krishna (Ajay Devgn) and Vasudha (Tabu), two star-crossed lovers whose relationship unfolds in a non-linear narrative. The film opens with a poignant scene of young lovers (played by Shantanu Maheshwari and Saiee Manjrekar) against the backdrop of Mumbai’s skyline, suggesting a love story filled with promise and heartbreak.
As the narrative oscillates between the past and present, we witness Krishna, a convict who has been in prison for 23 years, reluctant to leave. The plot hinges on why Krishna committed a double murder and why Vasudha did not wait for him. This central mystery, unfortunately, is stretched thin over a two-hour runtime, making the first half feel like an endless marathon of flashbacks and slow storytelling.
Analysis
The film tries to explore love across different ages, contrasting the impulsive nature of young love with the more practical approach that comes with age. However, the execution leaves much to be desired. The pacing is excruciatingly slow, reminiscent of a ‘maha-episode’ from a daily soap opera, which dilutes the emotional impact of the story. The narrative, at times, feels more like a drawn-out drama with scenes repeated from multiple perspectives, similar to Anees Bazmee’s Welcome, but without the humor and charm.
Performances
Ajay Devgn, as the brooding Krishna, delivers a restrained performance. However, he doesn’t have much to work with in terms of emotional depth. Tabu, as Vasudha, brings her usual grace and skill to the role, but again, the script doesn’t allow her to shine. The younger versions of the characters, portrayed by Shantanu Maheshwari and Saiee Manjrekar, bring a refreshing charm, with Shantanu’s earnestness and Saiee’s vivacity standing out.
Jimmy Sheirgill, typecast yet again as the unlucky lover, delivers a solid performance but is limited by the script’s predictability. The supporting cast does little to elevate the film, with their characters feeling more like afterthoughts.
Music and Direction
The film’s music, composed by Oscar-winner MM Keeravani, fails to leave a lasting impression. The songs, including “Ae Dil Zara,” feel like unnecessary additions that further bog down the already slow-paced narrative. Neeraj Pandey’s direction, usually sharp and focused, seems to falter here. The script’s lack of ‘dum’ (punch) is evident, as the story meanders without a clear direction or purpose.
Conclusion
Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is a disappointing romantic drama that squanders the talents of its lead actors. Despite a few bright moments, the film is marred by a sluggish narrative and a thin plot. Neeraj Pandey’s attempt to craft a nuanced love story falls flat, making this a forgettable entry in the filmography of Ajay Devgn and Tabu.
For those searching for a heartfelt romantic drama, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is unlikely to satisfy. The film’s tagline, “Sometimes, it never ends…”, ironically captures the experience of watching this overextended narrative. While the premise held promise, the execution left much to be desired, making this a missed opportunity for a potentially beautiful story.
