Bada Naam Karenge

Plot Overview:

Set against the vibrant backdrops of Ratlam and Ujjain, the narrative follows Rishabh (Ritik Ghanshani), an MBA graduate aiming to modernize his family's traditional sweet business, and Surbhi (Ayesha Kaduskar), an ambitious biology student from Ujjain. Their paths cross during the COVID-19 lockdown in Mumbai, leading to an unexpected bond. Fate reunites them later through an arranged marriage proposal, unbeknownst to their families about their prior acquaintance. The series delves into their journey of balancing personal aspirations with familial expectations, exploring themes of love, tradition, and self-discovery.

Performances:

Ritik Ghanshani and Ayesha Kaduskar deliver compelling performances, capturing the essence of modern youth grappling with traditional values. Their on-screen chemistry brings authenticity to the evolving relationship between Rishabh and Surbhi. The supporting cast, including Kanwaljeet Singh, Alka Amin, Rajesh Jais, Chitrali Lokesh, Rajesh Tailang, and Anjana Sukhani, enrich the narrative with their seasoned portrayals, adding depth to the family dynamics depicted in the series.

Direction and Writing:

Director Palash Vaswani successfully blends traditional storytelling with contemporary themes, maintaining the signature warmth associated with Rajshri Productions. The screenplay thoughtfully navigates the complexities of arranged marriages in modern times, highlighting the interplay between generational perspectives. While the narrative is engaging, certain subplots, such as the backstory of Rishabh's aunt, feel slightly prolonged, but they do not significantly detract from the overall storytelling.

Music and Cinematography:

Anurag Saikia's musical score complements the series' emotional tone, with nostalgic tracks like "Mere Rang Mein Rangne Wali" and "Tum Ladki Ho Main Ladka Hoon" evoking memories of classic 90s Bollywood romances. Cinematographer Shiv Prakash Rathour captures the charm of small-town India with poetic elegance, enhancing the visual storytelling.

Critical Reception:

The series has garnered positive reviews for its heartfelt portrayal of love and family. The Times of India describes it as "a heartwarming reminder that tradition and ambition can coexist beautifully," appreciating its blend of old-school family values and modern sensibilities. However, some critiques, like from IWMBuzz, suggest that the series may feel overstretched, with predictability in its narrative arcs.

Conclusion:

"Bada Naam Karenge" offers a refreshing take on the arranged marriage trope, presenting a narrative that resonates with both traditional and modern audiences. Its exploration of love, family, and personal growth makes it a compelling watch for those seeking a blend of nostalgia and contemporary storytelling.