Fri Sep 20 08:16:17 UTC 2024: ## “Kahan Shuru Kahan Khatam” Tries Too Hard, Falls Short of Expectations: Review

**New Delhi:** “Kahan Shuru Kahan Khatam”, a new rom-com set in Uttar Pradesh, aims to deliver a message of female empowerment while incorporating a retro-inspired aesthetic. However, the film ultimately falls short due to its shallow characters, predictable plot, and forced humor, according to film critic Deepa Gahlot.

The story revolves around Krishna (Aashim Gulati), a teacher who finds himself entangled in a chaotic wedding of a mafia don’s daughter, Meera (Dhvani Bhanushali). Meera, despite being educated in Australia, is forced into an arranged marriage, prompting her to escape in a red car. Krishna, who has a knack for getting into trouble, ends up in the car with her, leading everyone to believe they have eloped.

The film attempts to contrast the oppressive environment of Meera’s family with Krishna’s family in Barsana, a town known for its vibrant Holi celebrations where women are traditionally allowed to playfully beat men. However, this cultural juxtaposition feels forced and lacks depth.

The characters, particularly Meera and Krishna, lack complexity and are more akin to archetypes than fully realized individuals. The comedic elements, which rely heavily on slapstick and outdated tropes, fall flat, leaving the audience feeling unengaged.

“Kahan Shuru Kahan Khatam” tries too hard to convey its message of female empowerment, resulting in a preachy and heavy-handed approach. While the film touches on important social issues, it lacks the nuance and subtlety required to make a meaningful impact.

While the film’s short running time is a positive, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling story or memorable characters. “The actors do as well as they can with the limited material at hand,” Gahlot observes, “but the film itself is a missed opportunity.”

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