THIS is the type of movie that might have worked really well in the 1990s when romance was dominating Hindi cinema and many contemporary story troupes in the genre had not been done yet.
But in 2023, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani comes across as more style than actual substance and seems to have ideas that have been recycled.
The story essentially revolves around two mismatched individuals from different backgrounds, who fall in love with each other. They decide to live with each other’s family to gain some sort of acceptance for their union. There is also a sub-plot of getting two elderly people reconnected after many decades apart.
From the flashy dance numbers to the various story troupes of mismatched lovers trying to reunite individuals and disappr fore in Bollywood. Even the song numbers, acting styles and overcooked sets give you a sense of déjà vu in a film that desperately tries to offer something new, without much success. Those who enjoy formula driven love stories will find plenty to like, but even their patience will be tested in this overly long film. What ultimately saves Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani from being a complete letdown is some decent musical numbers and solid turns from the lead cast.
Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt generate plenty of chemistry onscreen. There are also winning performances from Bollywood legends Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi and in particular Dharmendra, who is just a joy to watch onscreen. There are a few interesting life lessons as well.
Ultimately, this movie is a sign that Karan Johar as a filmmaker has failed to evolve from the days of delivering superhits such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), with a movie that has stapled together lots of seen before ideas into a paper-thin plot.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.