Director - Amarjit Singh Saron
Cast - Shehnaaz Gill, Gurjazz, Juss, Udaybir Sandhu, Nirmal Rishi, Sukhi Chahal, Gurinder Makna, Gurdial Paras, Harby Sangha, Balwinder Bullet Neha Dayal, Nikita Grover, Jass Dhillon, Vishu Uppal, Gurpreet Singh, Baljinder Dara Puri
Duration – 123 Minutes
Imagine this: you’re all set to attend your arranged marriage, decked out in your Sunday-best optimism, and suddenly you start thinking, “Wait… what do I actually know about this guy?” That’s exactly where Shehnaaz Gill’s Simmi finds herself in Ikk Kudi, a Punjabi rom-com that’s way more heart (and family drama) than your usual Bollywood fluff. From the very first frame, the film promises a blend of romance, mystery, and intergenerational family chaos, and it delivers in ways both unexpected and charming.
The story swings effortlessly between two timelines: the sepia-soaked 1950s love story of young Tejo (also played by Shehnaaz, because yes, she’s multitasking like a pro) and present-day Chandigarh, where Simmi is questioning every little thing about her fiancé Jagveer (played by Udaybir Sandhu). The past is painted with warmth and nostalgia, capturing the innocence and simplicity of love in a bygone era, while the present is vibrant, chaotic, and occasionally awkward—just like real life.
What makes Ikk Kudi especially compelling is the family therapy element woven throughout. Simmi’s family tree is essentially a guide to heartbreak: a grandmother who lost her true love, parents who ended in separation, and an aunt coping with a troublesome alcoholic husband. Watching Simmi navigate her doubts with such a rich backdrop of family history adds depth and authenticity to what could have been just another rom-com. The family’s support, rather than pressure, creates a refreshing and progressive tone that’s rarely seen in mainstream cinema.
Shehnaaz Gill is the star of the show in dual roles, radiating youthful innocence as Tejo and emotional intelligence as Simmi. Her performance carries the film effortlessly, making the audience root for her journey of self-discovery and love. Udaybir Sandhu as Jagveer brings the right mix of charm and mystery, while the supporting cast, including Gurjazz, Nirmal Rishi, and Nikita Grover, add both humour and realism to the narrative.
Technically, the movie is a visual and auditory treat. Ravi Kumar Sana’s cinematography beautifully differentiates the eras—the sepia-toned past versus the colorful present—while Arabinda Neog and Jaidev Kumar’s background score enhances the emotional narrative. The songs, particularly Jasmine Sandlas’ “Khhand Laagdi,” inject fun and energy without ever feeling out of place, making the soundtrack feel like a natural extension of the story.
Of course, the film isn’t perfect. The pacing slows down in the middle, and some subplots feel slightly underdeveloped, particularly in the second half. A few emotional sequences echo familiar Bollywood tropes, recalling films like Veer-Zaara or Love Aaj Kal, which slightly dilutes the originality. Yet, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise sensitive and engaging story that balances romance, family drama, and emotional introspection.
In the end, Ikk Kudi isn’t just about love—it’s about healing generational wounds, choosing wisely, and reclaiming faith in relationships. It’s a heartfelt, elegantly crafted tale that makes you laugh, cry, and maybe even question your own family history along the way. With its blend of emotion, mystery, and family warmth, it’s a Punjabi rom-com with soul, and Shehnaaz Gill proves she’s more than ready to lead the charge.