Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi movie review: A run-of-the-mill situational comedy that works in parts

Happy is searching for a job when he meets Pooja (Jasmin Bajwa), a working woman. He starts a fast food shop to impress her and spend time with her. As their courtship moves forward, Happy comes clean about his father’s greed and desire for dowry and the two plot to deal with their respective families’ expectations. However, the main cause of mayhem becomes a red car gifted by the bride’s family. The car creates chaos in the lives of Happy and his family members, leading to confusion and funny situations.

Written by Naresh Kathooria, Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi is a run-of-the-mill situational comedy that relies heavily on one-liners and slapstick performances to keep the audience engaged. The plot is wafer-thin, the resolutions are easy and the ending is predictable.

Although the film tries to weave in a strong anti-dowry message, it seems rather superficial as much of the film has both parties geared towards giving the dowry in order to ensure the happy union of the couple. It is only towards the end that we see any real questioning of social evil.

What is engaging in the film, however, are the performances and the witty dialogues that pepper the narrative. Binnu Dhillon plays his role competently, with his usual antics. Jasmin Bajwa, who has been seen in films like Sohreyan Da Pind Aa Gya (2022), Fuffad Ji (2021), is fine in her limited role as well.

Veteran comedians BN Sharma and Jaswinder Bhalla give wonderful performances that keep the laughter rolling. Sharma plays a moody, greedy relative who can only be lured by expensive gifts, while Bhalla’s portrayal of a money-minded, desperate man is spot-on. The fact that Bhalla gets more screen time than the female lead is testimony to how much the film relies on the beloved actors’ antics!

The music is done well and the songs are enjoyable. ‘Ni Kude’ sung by Ammy Virk is a simple melody, while the romantic song ‘Kya Hi Baataan’ by Virk and Jasmeen Akhtar captures the courtship of the couple. The upbeat title track and dance number ‘Chaklo Chaklo’ are entertaining and fun.

Overall, Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi is an average family entertainer that has some hilarious, enjoyable moments.

Not many would know that the intriguing title of the film is from the song “Gaddi Jandi-E-Challanga Mardi Mainu Yaad Aaye Mere Yaar Ki”, from the Hindi feature, Dada(1979).

Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi movie cast: Ammy Virk, Binnu Dhillon, Jasmin Bajwa, Jaswinder Bhalla, BN Sharma, Seema Kaushal
Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi movie director: Smeep Kang
Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi movie rating: 3 stars