Gulkand

Gulkand ..... like it's name, takes time to grow on you. By the end of first hour, you get bored and anxiously wait for the antics of Hasyjatra stars. The love story in the beginning never grows on you, hence there are occasional yawns .... But the moment focus turns Sameer and Esha, well get what we came to see .... laugh riot. The last half an hour is very good ..... Sameer and Esha are delight, nobody can touch Sai in showcasing vulnerability.... her eyes speaks thousand words. Prasad is as usual perfect. But I was amused by Jui Bhagwat.... she is so natural. Looking forward to see her work. Overall nice watch ....

Gulkand is not just a film - it's a heartfelt celebration of Marathi humor, cultural nostalgia, and nuanced performances. With Samir Choughule leading the narrative in his first central cinematic role, the film stands tall as a rare blend of comedy and emotional depth.

Performance Highlights

Samir Choughule, widely adored for his television and stage work, delivers a performance that feels both lived-in and liberating. His comedic timing is already known, but here he surprises with quiet emotional beats that add gravitas to his role. This is a career-defining moment, much like a seasoned cricketer finally getting to captain the team - and doing it with charm.

Isha Dey is the film's revelation. In her first major role, she brings poise and impeccable range - effortlessly matching Choughule's energy in comedic sequences and holding her own in emotionally demanding scenes. Her presence signals the arrival of a promising new lead in Marathi cinema.

Prasad Oak, in a supporting role, strikes with his trademark intensity. While his screen time is limited, he elevates every frame he's in - never overshadowing the leads but subtly strengthening the narrative with his gravitas.

Sai Tamhankar, portraying the mother of a grown-up, might seem an odd casting choice at first glance - but she commands the role with such dignity and depth that the initial surprise soon fades. She remains one of the most dependable names in Marathi cinema.

Tejas Raut and Jui Bhagwat, the young pair, bring freshness and vibrancy. Raut, especially, displays a flair reminiscent of early-stage stars who later become genre staples.

Direction & Writing

The film, penned by Sachin Mote and directed by Sachin Goswami, maintains a steady tone. Mote's script balances punchy one-liners with poignant emotional moments. Some dialogues may veer towards the cliché, and a few scenes could benefit from tighter editing, but the overall impact remains strong.

Goswami's direction ensures that the film never loses emotional momentum, despite being dialogue-heavy. He handles transitions between humor and sentiment with care, and his visual storytelling - particularly in songs like Jau date var- is evocative and era-sensitive.

Music & Production

The music, featuring vocals by Avadhoot Gupte, Vaishali Samant, Rohit Raut, and Sawani Ravindra, is nostalgic and contextually rich. Jau datevar is a standout track - charming, hummable, and tastefully shot.

Production houses Everest Entertainment and Julley Media Solutions deserve credit for backing a film that respects its audience's intelligence. Special mention to Gayatri Khichdi for her marketing efforts - which ensured the film reached the right eyes and ears despite stiff competition.

Final Thoughts

"Gulakand" works because it respects its roots - the traditions of Marathi wit, the warmth of family bonds, and the bittersweet reality of time. It's a film that speaks to the 90s generation now heading toward middle age - a reminder of innocence, complexity, and everything in between.

Despite minor flaws in pacing and occasional dated dialogues, this is a film that succeeds in its emotional aim - to make us laugh, reflect, and perhaps, pick up the phone to call an old friend.

Verdict: A layered, humorous, and emotionally resonant watch that reaffirms the strength of Marathi storytelling.

Recommended for all ages - especially families and longtime fans of Marathi theatre and television.

After a long time, I finally came across such a fun-loving and refreshing movie! I've been bored of the same old predictable storylines, but this one felt like a breath of fresh air. The performances were spot on-Sameer Chougule was outstanding, and Isha De was equally impressive. I couldn't help but wonder if she might be a distant relative since her surname is Vadnerkar too! What truly stood out for me was the comedy-I honestly wished there was more and more of it. I watched this on Mother's Day with my mom, and it made the experience even more special. Overall, a delightful film that left me smiling!

"Gulkand" is a delightful cinematic treat that beautifully captures the multifaceted journey of marriage. With a perfect blend of humor and heartfelt moments, the film navigates the everyday occurrences within a marital relationship, making it incredibly relatable for audiences.

What truly sets "Gulkand" apart is its ability to find the laughter amidst the nuances of married life. The comedic timing and witty dialogues ensure genuine chuckles throughout.

"Gulkand" offers a wholesome and enjoyable viewing experience, perfect for a gathering with loved ones. If you're seeking a good cinema experience that promises genuine emotion, hearty laughter, and a reflection of life's beautiful complexities.

Gulkand (2025) : Movie Review -

Gulkand presents a fresh concept - the clash of exes and current partners (husbands/wives) - with a surprising twist. This theme might remind you of Tu Hi Re (a remake of a Tamil film) or Kedar Shinde's Maza Navra Tujhi Bayko, but here, two former lovers are reunited as in-laws. It's certainly an engaging premise, but the film struggles to do full justice to it in the second half.

Neena Dhavle (Sai Tamhankar) is married to Makarand Dhavle (Samir Chaugule), and their daughter Meenakshi (Jui Bhagwat) is in love with Omkar Mane (Tejas Raut). When Omkar's parents - Girish Mane (Prasad Oak) and Ragini Mane (Esha Dey) - visit the Dhavles for a marriage discussion, Girish unexpectedly comes face-to-face with Neena, his long-lost love. Circumstances had kept them apart in the past, but now they find themselves reliving those memories while their loyal but insecure partners, Ragini and Makarand, begin spying on them. The question is: will this reunion jeopardize their children's future and their own married lives?

The film had solid potential, as it touches upon the complex emotions of loyalty and commitment after years of marriage. Sadly, the trajectory is predictable - much like Tu Hi Re - and the narrative weakens when Ragini and Makarand's antics take center stage. The focus shifts, and what starts as a compelling emotional dilemma becomes a chaotic tangle. Still, there are a few heartfelt moments that resonate. While Gulkand is positioned as a comedy, its tonal shift into soap-opera territory affects the momentum.

Performance-wise, the newcomers outshine the veterans. Esha Dey is a total riot - her madcap character steals the spotlight. Sai Tamhankar plays the loyal housewife well, and her flashback scenes as a younger Neena are passable. Prasad Oak and Samir Chaugule deliver dependable performances, while Jui Bhagwat and Tejas Raut are adequate. The supporting cast also chips in fairly.

The film falls short in music and visual finesse. The cinematography could have been sharper, and the editing lacks the punch to keep you glued - with too many redundant scenes. That said, the production design and locations are pleasant. Sachin Goswami's intent to bring novelty deserves applause, but he doesn't quite push the boundaries. The film becomes a victim of overused tropes from Marathi serials. Its portrayal of emotional infidelity needs more nuance, considering the weight such a subject carries. All said and done, Gulkand is a watchable but middling attempt - a decent one for Marathi audiences amidst an ocean of mediocrity.

RATING - 6/10*