Kudi Haryane Val Di: A Fresh and Entertaining Exploration of Cultural Differences in Punjabi Cinema

Kudi Haryane Val Di: A Fresh Take on Punjabi Cinema Exploring Cultural Differences

Written and directed by Rakesh Dhawan, Kudi Haryane Val Di brings a breath of fresh air to Punjabi cinema with its exploration of cultural differences between the states of Haryana and Punjab. Starring Ammy Virk and Sonam Bajwa in the lead roles, the film delves into the cross-cultural theme using the backdrop of wrestling to create an enjoyable and engaging drama.

Shivjot (Ammy Virk), the only son in a family of wrestlers, has no interest in wrestling. Carefree and lazy, he spends his time reading poetry, hoping to find a partner who will make his heart skip a beat. His luck turns when he spots Neelam (Sonam Bajwa) across the wrestling arena. Neelam, the daughter of Mann Singh Dahiya (Yashpal Sharma), is passionate about wrestling. To get close to her, Shivjot becomes the coach of Mann Singh’s wrestling team. However, when Mann Singh’s rival, Sheeshpal, challenges them, Shivjot must rise to the occasion to prove his worth and win Neelam’s love.

Both Haryana and Punjab are renowned for their wrestling traditions, with Haryana producing many champion wrestlers. Unlike Hindi films like Dangal (2016) and Sultan (2016), which focus on the sport’s broader issues, Kudi Haryane Val Di uses wrestling primarily as a backdrop for the romance between Shivjot and Neelam. The pride and rivalry between various akharas (wrestling grounds) in Haryana add natural tension to the plot.

The film features numerous hilarious moments that arise from the differences in language, culture, and food between the two states. An amusing scene involves a discussion about saag, with Punjabis and Haryanvis having different interpretations of the dish. Another interesting scene shows Shivjot’s mother telling veiled Haryanvi women how she stopped wearing a veil after marriage.

Both Haryana and Punjab have deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes towards women. The film takes a commendable stance on women’s rights, with Neelam’s father supporting her choice of life partner, regardless of community. He stresses the importance of her consent, sending a powerful message in a region where male-dominated Khap panchayats often dictate social norms and marriage rules.

A subplot involving Jung Singh (Yograj Singh) searching for his daughter Laali, who has run away to pursue her studies and avoid an arranged marriage, provides additional social commentary. However, this track feels somewhat unnecessary and leads to a prolonged ending.

With good pacing and high production quality, the music of Kudi Haryane Val Di does not disappoint. The title song “Ikk Hai Ikk Hai” and “Jaatni” are upbeat dance numbers that celebrate the two states. Despite its formulaic plot and predictable conclusion, the film’s feel-good comedy and surprising climax keep viewers entertained till the end.

Ammy Virk and Sonam Bajwa deliver strong performances, with Bajwa excelling in her portrayal of a Haryanvi kudi. She captures the accent perfectly and commands every scene with ease. Yashpal Sharma convincingly represents the Haryanvi Jaat, while supporting actors Honey Mattu, Hardeep Gill, Seema Kaushal, Mahabir Bhullar, and Yograj Singh add humor and depth to the film.

Overall, this Ammy Virk-Sonam Bajwa starrer is definitely worth your time, offering a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and cultural exploration.

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