Review: The film “Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha” offers a refreshing take on love stories, especially in a time dominated by political thrillers and action films. The age-appropriate casting adds to the appeal, but unfortunately, the film falls short of expectations. The story of Krishna and Vasudha, set against the backdrop of the partially constructed Bandra-Worli Sea Link, symbolizes their unfinished love story. The irony of their naive hopes for the future becomes the central theme of the narrative.
The young couple lives in a chawl in Mumbai and their love story unfolds against the backdrop of various festivals such as Janmashtami, Diwali, and Holi. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when Krishna reveals to Vasudha that he has to leave for Bangalore for training and then to Germany for work for a period of two years. Fast forward to the present, we meet an older Krishna who has been in prison for 23 years after being convicted of two murders and sentenced to 25 years behind bars.
Due to his exemplary conduct, his sentence is shortened by two and a half years. The majority of the film unfolds on the day of his release from imprisonment. In contrast, Vasudha has established her own handloom and handicraft enterprise and is now married to Abhijeet, portrayed by Jimmy Sheirgill. Will Krishna encounter Vasudha? If they do meet, will she choose to abandon her husband for her past love? What circumstances led to the separation of Krishna and Vasudha? Additionally, what influence does Abhijeet have on the relationship between his wife and her former fiancé? The film endeavors to explore these inquiries, though it may not provide definitive answers to all of them.
To begin, the reason behind Abhijeet’s keen interest in meeting Krishna remains unclear, making his role in the story seem somewhat forced. While Neeraj attempts to provide an explanation, it lacks credibility. Abhijeet’s internal struggle between being a confident individual and an insecure spouse may seem valid on the surface, but ultimately leaves viewers puzzled. Additionally, Vasudha’s feelings towards him lack depth.
The intrusive background music, despite being composed by the talented MM Kreem, fails to enhance the emotional aspect of the film. While the movie is filled with drama and sentiment, it sometimes resembles a 2000s Hindi television series. However, this nostalgic element does manage to strike a chord occasionally.
The film Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is filled with numerous romantic and emotional scenes featuring the talented actors Ajay Devgn and Tabu. These scenes had the potential to enhance the average screenplay, but unfortunately, they fail to make an impact. For instance, the moment when they reunite in their old chawl after many years had the promise of being powerful, yet it falls short and becomes a lackluster episode due to the lazy and uninspiring writing.
In a different scene, older Krishna and Vasudha return to their favorite spot by the sea and have their first conversation after his release from prison. While Krishna tries to avoid dwelling on their tragic past, Vasudha struggles to move on. Despite the tension and emotional buildup, the scene ends up being anticlimactic.
However, credit must be given where it is deserved. The final sequence of Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, where the star-crossed lovers finally open up to each other and reveal their vulnerabilities, inhibitions, and agonies, is where the film truly shines. The heartfelt conversations between Ajay and Tabu about love, longing, and yearning are incredibly moving. Their chemistry, expressed through their expressive eyes, is truly captivating. It’s a shame that this powerful moment comes too late in the film.
Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, at 145 minutes, appears to be excessively long. The first half is notably slow and will continuously test your patience. The scenes of Krishna in jail, which provide a glimpse into his life as a captive, could have been condensed. The abrupt ending of the film is made even more jarring by the lack of a post-credit scene.
However, the younger versions of Krishna and Vasudha, and their innocent and heartwarming love story, serve as the film’s biggest highlight and surprise. Shantanu Maheshwari and Saiee M Manjrekar’s portrayal of them is outstanding, and the flashback scenes featuring them are the film’s strongest aspect. The film relies on their performance, and the sincerity, fragility, and vulnerability they bring to the screen will leave you feeling warm and smiling with teary eyes.
The jail scene between them in Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha might not evoke the same emotions as Sapta Saagaradaache Ello: Side A. However, the film lacks the intricate nuances and complexities seen in the Rakshit Shetty and Rukmini Vasanth starrer. Despite this, the chemistry between Shantanu and Saiee feels natural, forming a strong foundation akin to a skyscraper.
While Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha may have its ups and downs, the quartet manages to hold the shaky script together. Through their collective talent and performances, they ensure the film stays on track towards its goal, which Neeraj describes as “Sometimes, it never ends…” Like love, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is not flawless. It can soar one moment and stumble the next. It can be chaotic or composed, heartfelt or searching. Watch it for the actors’ performances.