Nadaaniyan, directed by Shauna Gautam, is a Hindi-language romantic drama that premiered on Netflix on March 7, 2025. The film features debut performances by Ibrahim Ali Khan and Khushi Kapoor, both hailing from prominent Bollywood families. Produced by Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment, “Nadaaniyan” explores themes of love, social status, and authenticity.

Movie Details

DetailInformation
TitleNadaaniyan
DirectorShauna Gautam
WritersRiva Razdan Kapoor, Ishita Moitra
GenreDrama, Romance
CastIbrahim Ali Khan (Arjun), Khushi Kapoor (Pia), Mahima Chaudhry, Barun Chanda, Suniel Shetty, Dia Mirza
Release DateMarch 7, 2025
Runtime119 minutes
IMDb Rating3.1/10 based on 13,121 votes
Box OfficeInformation not available

Plot Overview (Spoiler-Free)

Set against the backdrop of Delhi’s elite social circles, “Nadaaniyan” follows Pia, a privileged socialite who, after a fallout with her friends, hires Arjun, a middle-class student, to pose as her boyfriend on social media. Their arrangement, intended to uphold Pia’s social standing, becomes complicated as genuine feelings develop between them. The film delves into the challenges of maintaining appearances and the complexities of modern relationships.

Performance and Direction

Ibrahim Ali Khan and Khushi Kapoor’s debut performances have garnered attention, though opinions are divided. Some viewers appreciated Kapoor’s charm and on-screen presence, noting she brings a bubbly and warm demeanor to her role. However, critiques have pointed out that the film’s execution falters due to superficial character development and a weak storyline, which may have impacted the actors’ ability to fully showcase their talents.

Director Shauna Gautam’s storytelling approach has been met with mixed reactions. While the film aims to capture the essence of a modern romantic comedy, some reviews suggest that it lacks depth and originality, making it feel out of touch and superficial. The cinematography captures the opulence of Delhi’s high society, and the soundtrack, featuring compositions by Tushar Lall and the duo Sachin-Jigar, adds a contemporary flair to the narrative.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Visual Appeal: The film boasts high production values, with vibrant visuals that effectively depict the lavish lifestyles of its characters.
  • Soundtrack: The music complements the film’s tone, offering catchy tunes that resonate with the youthful energy of the narrative.

Weaknesses:

  • Character Development: Critics have noted that the characters lack depth, making it challenging for audiences to connect with their journeys.
  • Predictable Plot: The storyline has been described as a rehash of familiar romantic comedies, lacking the sparkle and originality that could set it apart.

Public Review

Audience reactions to “Nadaaniyan” have been mixed. On social media platforms, some viewers expressed disappointment, citing the film’s lack of originality and depth. One viewer commented that the film “rehashes every Karan Johar romcom, without his sparkle.” However, others praised the lead actors, particularly Ibrahim Ali Khan, for their screen presence, suggesting potential for future projects.

Conclusion

Nadaaniyan offers a glimpse into the lives of Delhi’s elite, wrapped in a narrative of love and societal expectations. While the film excels in visual appeal and features a catchy soundtrack, it falls short in delivering a fresh and engaging story. Fans of the lead actors may find value in their performances, but those seeking a novel romantic comedy experience might feel underwhelmed. In comparison to similar films in the genre, “Nadaaniyan” struggles to leave a lasting impression.