Star cast: Ashutosh Rana, Sheeba Chaddha, Pavail Gulati, Isha Talwar, Brijendra Kala, Grusha Kapoor
Director: Seemaa Desai
Some films do not need extravagant plots or dramatic twists to make an impact, sometimes, the most ordinary stories leave the deepest mark. Kaushaljis vs Kaushal is one such gem. Directed by Seemaa Desai, this JioHotstar release takes us into the heart of a middle-class Indian household, where dreams, duty, and love intertwine in unexpected ways.
Sahil Kaushal (Ashutosh Rana) and his wife Sangita (Sheeba Chaddha) have spent years together in the quiet familiarity of marriage. He is a dedicated accountant with a passion for qawwali, and she is a homemaker who secretly dreams of becoming a perfumer. Their children, Yug (Pavail Gulati), a fast-paced advertising executive, and their daughter, who works at an NGO, see their parents as the epitome of stability. But when Sahil and Sangita decide to go their separate ways, it sends shockwaves through their family, forcing everyone to pause and reflect on their own journeys.
Ashutosh Rana and Sheeba Chaddha are at the heart of this film, portraying their characters with incredible ease and depth. Their chemistry makes the Kaushals feel like a real couple—one that has silently sacrificed dreams for responsibilities. Pavail Gulati delivers a strong performance as Yug, embodying the struggles of a son caught between his personal ambitions and his family’s expectations.
Isha Talwar and Deeksha Joshi shine in their respective roles, adding layers to the family’s emotional journey. Grusha Kapoor, known for her expressive screen presence, brings a powerful dynamic to the narrative, while the ever-reliable Brijendra Kala adds his signature charm, delivering moments of wit and wisdom that ground the film in realism. Each actor contributes to making Kaushaljis vs Kaushal feel like a real, lived-in world.
What makes Kaushaljis vs Kaushal truly special is its ability to strike the right balance between emotion and humour. The film never overplays its dramatic moments, allowing the story to unfold in a natural, heartfelt manner. The dialogues are deeply relatable, capturing the essence of everyday conversations that many Indian families will connect with.
The film’s cinematography beautifully captures the charm of small-town India, adding to its authenticity. The music, especially the qawwali sequences, isn’t just an accessory but a crucial part of the storytelling, heightening the emotional impact of key moments.
Kaushaljis vs Kaushal is a beautifully crafted, deeply moving film that celebrates love, self-discovery, and the evolving nature of familial bonds. With its stellar performances, engaging narrative, and heartfelt moments, it’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates cinema that feels both intimate and universal.
Rating: 3.5 (out of 5 stars)
Kaushaljis VS Kaushal is streaming on JioHotstar
A cinephile, who loves, eats and breathes Bollywood and south cinema. Box Office specialist. Obsessed with numbers and trade business of the entertainment industry.