Film Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is a perfect family outing for the festive season! !!

Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari (SSKTK), the highly anticipated romantic-comedy from Dharma Productions, has finally hit theatres, coinciding with the festive Dussehra weekend. Starring the popular pairing of Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor (reuniting after Bawaal), and directed by the master of the modern rom-com, Shashank Khaitan (Dulhania series), the film promised a return to the grand, vibrant Bollywood wedding template.

 

But does this over-the-top family drama deliver on its promise, or is it merely old wine in a glossy new bottle? Our detailed review is here.

 

Plot: A Convoluted Web of Love and Fake Dating

 

The film’s central conceit is pure Bollywood masala: a convoluted love quadrangle set against a big, fat Indian wedding.

Varun Dhawan plays Sunny Sanskari, the heartbroken ex of Ananya (Sanya Malhotra), who is now engaged to the seemingly perfect Vikram (Rohit Saraf). Sunny joins forces with Tulsi Kumari (Janhvi Kapoor), who is coincidentally Vikram’s ex-flame. Their plan? To fake a romance and make their respective former partners jealous. As expected in this genre, the line between pretense and genuine affection begins to blur, leading to chaotic, humorous, and occasionally dramatic situations.

 

The core story is undeniably familiar, borrowing heavily from Hollywood 'fake-dating' tropes and the Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge template. While the first half smartly sets up the comedic chaos, the second half and the climax feel rushed, preventing the film from truly earning its emotional payoff.

 

Performances: Varun Dhawan is Back in His Element

 

The real strength of SSKTK lies in its powerhouse cast and their chemistry.

• Varun Dhawan as Sunny Sanskari: This is Varun in his absolute comfort zone—the quirky, charming, and often chaotic small-town boy who hides depth beneath an exuberant exterior. His comic timing, especially the brilliant mimicry scene, is hailed as the film's highlight. He carries the 'Sanskari' title playfully, proving why he is Bollywood's go-to star for the romantic comedy genre.
• Janhvi Kapoor as Tulsi Kumari: Janhvi is earnest and looks glamorous in the lavish production. She shines in the comedic and light-hearted sequences, sharing a sparkling chemistry with Varun. While critics note she occasionally struggles to keep pace with Varun’s energy in the more intense emotional scenes, she delivers a likable performance.
• The Supporting Stars (Sanya Malhotra & Rohit Saraf): Sanya Malhotra and Rohit Saraf, in roles that require them to be more grounded and reserved, perform competently. Rohit Saraf, in particular, is appreciated for his mature portrayal of Vikram Singh, providing a necessary foil to Varun's exuberance.

Direction & Technicals: Shashank Khaitan's Signature

 

Director Shashank Khaitan revisits the familiar territory he mastered with Badrinath Ki Dulhania. He brings the full force of Dharma Productions to the screen: lavish sets, brightly coloured costumes, and high-energy music. The technical aspects—cinematography and production design—are top-notch, ensuring the film is a vibrant spectacle.

 

However, the film’s major critique lies in the writing. While Khaitan and the writers sprinkle witty, modern-day dialogues and subtle Bollywood winks throughout, the overall narrative lacks the originality and thematic clarity that elevated the director’s previous works. The film tries to be a comedy, a family drama, and a commentary on social themes simultaneously, often failing to commit fully to any single track.

 

Final Verdict: A Fun, Flawed Festive Watch

 

Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is a perfect family outing for the festive season. It is a feel-good entertainer that gives you the familiar comfort of classic Bollywood rom-coms.

 

While the story is weak, the film’s high energy, solid music ("Panwaadi" and "Bijuriya" standouts), and the dazzling chemistry between Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor make it a watchable theatrical experience. Go for the laughs, the glamour, and Varun Dhawan’s flawless comic timing, but don’t expect a path-breaking cinematic effort.

 

Watch it if: You are craving a simple, vibrant, and fun Dharma Productions romantic comedy for a weekend family viewing.