The Plot: A Comedy of Errors
David Dhawan is back with yet another madcap comedy, and this time it’s ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’. The film is everything you would expect from the veteran director—colourful sets, chaotic misunderstandings, and a relentless pace that doesn’t give you time to question the logic. In an era where comedies are often layered with sarcasm and self-awareness, Dhawan sticks to his tried-and-tested formula of pure, uncomplicated entertainment.
The story revolves around Jass, played by Varun Dhawan, whose marriage to Baani (Mrunal Thakur) hits a rough patch when their life goals diverge. While Jass is ready to settle down and start a family, Baani is focused on her career. The separation sets off a chain of events that leads Jass into a new relationship with Preet (Pooja Hegde). What follows is a series of lies, misunderstandings, and increasingly absurd situations that keep the laughs coming. The screenplay doesn’t shy away from predictability, but it moves so fast that you’re never bored.
Varun Dhawan Shines as the Modern-Day Govinda
If there’s one reason to watch this film, it’s Varun Dhawan. He is completely in his element under his father’s direction. His comic timing, body language, and energy are reminiscent of the Govinda era of Hindi cinema—and that comparison works brilliantly. Watching him, you can’t help but wonder whether Varun is evolving into the new Govinda or whether it was David Dhawan’s style that shaped Govinda in the first place. Either way, Varun carries the film on his shoulders with infectious enthusiasm.
Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde add charm to their roles, though the screenplay doesn’t give them much beyond being catalysts for the confusion. The film is undeniably Varun’s show, and he makes the most of it. Even when the situations feel familiar, his commitment keeps you engaged.
Supporting Cast Brings the Laughs
David Dhawan knows that a comedy like this needs a strong supporting cast, and he delivers. Rakesh Bedi is hilarious as a male nurse, while Chunky Panday brings his signature eccentricity as a confused doctor. But the real treat is Johnny Lever—he appears and instantly elevates every scene. Jimmy Sheirgill adds a menacing yet comical presence as Preet’s gun-wielding brother, and Mouni Roy brings glamour and humour as a fabricated mother-maasi figure.
The film openly celebrates the cinematic space it comes from. The music is peppy, the production design is vibrant, and the overall tone is light-hearted. It doesn’t try to break new ground; it just wants to give you a good time. And for that, it succeeds. ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ may not be David Dhawan’s finest work, but it’s a reminder of why the old formula worked—and why it still can.