Tanvi the Great

Autism remains widely misunderstood in our society, and while a handful of films have attempted to portray it, none have utilized this medium to illuminate it with such nuance and authenticity. Iain Glen and Vidya's tenuous interactions capture the challenges while emphasizing that an autistic child is "different but no less!" In fact, such a child possesses remarkable focus and intensity-standing in stark contrast to Mukund's character!

I was profoundly moved by 'Tanvi The Great,' a film that resonated with me on countless levels.

The thread of underlying irony and subtle humor beautifully elevates the poignancy, particularly when Mukund reveals his life's ambition and the 'great' influencer path he's chosen to achieve notoriety and fame-a modern affliction that has engulfed our world.

Dadu's (Colonel Raina) internal struggles and eventual transformation through Tanvi offer perhaps the most endearing portrayal of a retired army officer battling deeply ingrained mindsets. The story truly soars when Tanvi stumbles upon her life's purpose and pursues it with beguiling, single-minded determination. The newcomer's performance as Tanvi is nothing short of brilliant-fresh, spontaneous, and utterly convincing. Raza provides a joyous, uplifting element within the serious narrative-a character who instantly wins hearts.

Each character holds their ground with remarkable precision. Jaggu Dada emerges as tough yet sensitive, serving as an exceptional sounding board for Dadu-and looks truly impressive in uniform! I don't recall seeing him as an army officer before, but it works magnificently. The casting deserves special mention-Shrini stands out, as do other surprise elements seamlessly woven into the screenplay.

What strikes me most is how every character feels fully realized and distinctly etched-the hallmark of masterful filmmaking.

Direction by Anupam Kher is well orchestrated. To address so many profound issues while weaving them together so artfully into one cohesive, compelling narrative is extraordinary and deserves the highest praise!

As an equal rights activist and a daughter with senior parents, this film touched me deeply and personally. I sincerely hope it reaches every corner of the world-it's a story that deserves to be seen by all.

Nisha JamVwal.

Tanvi the Great is a heartfelt and sincere attempt at telling a story rooted in resilience, identity, and the quiet strength of childhood innocence. What stands out most is how genuinely the film feels made with love - not in a showy, performative way, but in how it prioritizes emotion and purpose over polish.

The story itself feels fresh in its tone and intent. While the core arc may tread familiar ground, the presentation and the earnestness of its world make it feel unique. The emotional weight is mostly carried by Shubhangi Dutt, who plays Tanvi with a quiet brilliance - never begging for sympathy, but instead making the audience connect to her spirit and journey in an honest, unforced way. She is the heart of the film, and everything that works about it flows through her.

The supporting cast, particularly Jackie Shroff and Boman Irani, elevate their roles with sensitivity and presence, while veterans like Anupam Kher and Pallavi Joshi provide warmth, though their scenes sometimes feel lost in a screenplay that rushes from beat to beat. The film falters in its editing - transitions between scenes often feel abrupt, and the moments without Tanvi don't always land with the same emotional resonance.

But the soul of Tanvi the Great lies in its music. The songs are exquisitely composed, beautifully integrated, and carry the emotional arcs better than some of the dialogue itself. The theatricality and musical elements don't distract - they amplify. In fact, the soundtrack may be one of the strongest of the year.

Visually, the film is tidy and deliberate. The framing is neat, and while not overtly stylized, the cinematography serves the story well without trying to overpower it. Direction-wise, it feels like a film made with personal stakes, and that intimacy does come through.

Despite knowing how the story would unfold, the film managed to keep the emotional engagement intact till the very end. It may not be a perfect movie - with pacing and screenplay hiccups that hold it back - but it is undeniably moving and honest.

Sum up - Recommended for those who enjoy emotion-driven storytelling, powerful music, and character-led narratives.

"There is so much that able-bodied people could learn from the wisdom that often comes with disability. But space needs to be made. Hands need to reach out. People need to be lifted up." "My joy is my freedom - it allows me to live my life as I see fit. I won't leave this earth without the world knowing that I chose to live a life that made me happy, made me think, made me whole."

• Quotes from the book I read recently - Disability Visibility by Alice Wong

Watched this film in a theater. A heartfelt film that tells the story of Tanvi Raina, a 21-year-old autistic girl who aspires to join the Indian Army to fulfill her late father's dream of saluting the Indian flag at Siachen.

The narrative sheds light on the challenges faced by autistic individuals in a way that's both authentic and relatable. Shubhangi Dutt's performance as Tanvi is great - she brings a depth and nuance to the character that's both captivating and heartbreaking.

The emotional moments in the film are raw and impactful. However, there were times when the melodrama felt overwhelming and the CGI usage in the cinematography was subpar. The pacing issues in the second half also made the film feel a bit dragged out.

What really puzzles me, though was the reason given for Tanvi's mom leaving her with a barely known grandfather. It felt like a forced plot device! The acting, above average - esp Shubhangi Dutt shines. It does feel like though that the supporting cast are working with limited material.

Despite few flaws Tanvi The Great is a film is worth watching. The concept is admirable. The perseverance, self-determination and following one's dreams are inspiring and uplifting. Tanvi's story is a powerful reminder that with hard work and dedication one can overcome even the toughest challenges. It is definitely worth a watch.

"TANVI - THE GREAT" is one of the most touching and uplifting films I've seen in years. Anupam Kher's direction is brilliant, and debut actress Shubhangi is simply magical-she carries the film effortlessly. The movie beautifully portrays the journey of parenting an autistic child, showing that such children are not less, but extraordinarily gifted. It moved me deeply and brought back many personal emotions.

More than just a film on autism, it's about a daughter's love for her soldier father, the power of dreams, gratitude, and the strength of a single mother. It's a story of acceptance, resilience, and pure love.

Anupam Khers Tanvi The Great premiered on July 18, 2025 and is a deeply moving, exquisitely crafted film that lingers in the heart long after the credits roll. It follows Tanvi Raina played by extraordinary debutant Shubhangi Dutt, a 21 year old woman on the autism spectrum determined to fulfill her late fathers dream of saluting the tricolour at Siachen Glacier. This is not just a film; it is a tender celebration of resilience, individuality, and quiet strength.

A Story Told With Heart and Honesty Tanvis journey is not one of loud cinematic heroics, but of quiet defiance against the odds. Inspired by her fathers unfinished dream, she is guided by her loving mother Pallavi Joshi and slowly wins over her initially reluctant grandfather, Colonel Pratap Raina played by Anupam Kher. Her decision to train at a cantonment music school and then pursue her dream through a military outpost defies both societys expectations and traditional Bollywood storytelling.

Shubhangi Dutt - A Debut That Will Be Remembered for Years Shubhangi Dutt is a revelation. She does not just play Tanvi, she becomes her. The way she portrays Tanvis unique rhythms of thought and feeling, from the way she holds eye contact to her subtle speech inflections, feels strikingly authentic. There is no caricature here, only an honest, layered performance. Critics have rightly compared her to Priyanka Chopras Jhilmil from Barfi, yet Shubhangis performance stands apart, raw and unforgettable.

A Supporting Cast That Supports - Not Overshadows Anupam Kher is outstanding as Colonel Raina. His journey from skepticism to deep affection for Tanvi is captured in powerful, understated moments, one of the most memorable being when he asks, Permission to hug. Arvind Swami as Major Srinivasan balances military discipline with compassion, while Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Iain Glen, and Nassar each add weight and humanity to the narrative.

Visual Elegance, Music, and Message Cinematographer Keiko Nakahara paints breathtaking visuals of the Himalayan landscapes, misty mornings, and serene blues that reflect Tanvis inner world. The music complements this visual poetry perfectly, with gentle, uplifting compositions that resonate emotionally without overwhelming the story.

The only minor drawback is its slightly extended runtime about two and a half hours, where a few subplots like the mothers overseas project could have been trimmed. Still, these moments never diminish the films emotional core.

Why This Version of the Story Matters Where many films rely on over the top dramatization, Tanvi The Great takes a grounded and intimate approach. Autism is not overshadowed by spectacle, but treated as part of Tanvis identity, neither ignored nor sensationalized. The film avoids melodrama and instead lets moments breathe, from her impulse to train to her small triumphs, her frustrations, her bond with her grandfather, and the silent promise she carries.

It is not about what Tanvi cannot do; it is about what she refuses to let be denied. That makes the narrative feel empowering in a way few inspirational dramas are.

Final Verdict Tanvi The Great is far from perfect, but it dares to tell a story rarely seen on Indian screens. It is a story about an autistic individual not as tragic or odd, but as capable, hopeful, and deserving of her own dream. The film soars on its sincerity, anchored by Shubhangi Dutts debut and Anupam Khers heartfelt direction.

This is a film that will make you pause, think, and feel empathy. It is a modern fairytale rooted in reality, and yes, it reaches the kind of emotional heights you do not forget. A necessary narrative, bravely told, and impeccably felt.