Varun tries hard to save an outdated comedy-drama

Ria Sharma 

Director David Dhawan returns to familiar territory with Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, a film packed with romance, misunderstandings, family drama, comedy and songs. While the ingredients are classic David Dhawan, the execution feels dated, making the film a mixed experience despite a sincere effort from its lead star, Varun Dhawan.

The story follows Jass (Varun) and Bani (Mrunal Thakur), a married couple struggling to keep their relationship together. Their biggest disagreement revolves around starting a family. Jass wants children, while Bani is focused on her career. As tensions rise, the couple turns to marriage counselling, but their differences continue to grow. Eventually, Bani files for divorce, and the court asks them to live separately for six months before a final decision is made. During this period, Jass meets Preet (Pooja Hegde) in Rishikesh. Fate brings them together again in the UK, where their friendship gradually turns into romance. Just when Jass begins moving on, Bani returns with unexpected news - she is pregnant with his child. The situation becomes even more complicated when Preet reveals that she is also expecting his baby. This twist creates the confusion and chaos that drive the film’s second half. 

The biggest issue with the film is its pacing. The first half is slow, stretched and surprisingly low on humour. Several scenes feel longer than necessary, delaying the arrival of the main conflict. The second half is more entertaining and contains some genuinely funny moments, but the film takes too much time to get there.

Actors’ performance

Varun Dhawan is undoubtedly the film’s strongest asset. He brings energy, charm and solid comic timing to the role, doing 

his best to keep the audience engaged. Whether in emotional scenes or comic situations, he carries much of the film on his shoulders. Mrunal and Pooja perform well but neither is given enough material to make a lasting impact. The supporting cast fares better. Maniesh Paul delivers some of the film’s funniest moments. Rajpal Yadav, Chunky Panday, Rakesh Bedi and Manoj Pahwa add occasional laughs, while Jimmy Shergill is surprisingly wasted in a role that offers little scope. Mouni Roy’s cameo appearance adds a welcome touch of freshness.

Music 

The music carries a nostalgic flavour but often interrupts the narrative. With songs appearing at frequent intervals, the storytelling loses momentum.

FPJ verdict 

Overall, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai has all the elements of a typical David Dhawan entertainer but very little of the magic. Varun shines, but the weak screenplay and outdated storytelling prevent the film from becoming a memorable comedy.

Title: Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai 

Director: David Dhawan

Cast: Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur, Pooja Hegde, Maniesh Paul 

and others

Where: In theaters near you

Rating: HH