Pankaj Tripathi and Aditi Rao Hydari come together for Parivarik ManuRanjan, a gentle romantic comedy-drama that explores an unexpected relationship between two people from different walks of life. Directed by Varun V. Sharma, the film also features Brijendra Kala, Mukesh Tiwari, Vijayant Kohli and Sunita Rajwar in pivotal roles.
Backed by AAZ Films and Bhanushali Studios Limited, this 114-minute entertainer attempts to bring back the charm of simple, old-school romantic dramas. While its central relationship is genuinely endearing, the film loses some momentum because of an uneven screenplay and a relatively weak conflict.
Parivarik ManuRanjan Story
Set in Lucknow, the film follows Ranjan Dubey (Pankaj Tripathi), a 40-year-old bachelor working in the electricity department. He lives alone in his spacious family home, Dubey Niwas, and manages all the household responsibilities himself. His neighbour, colleague and close friend Rajaram (Brijendra Kala) feels that Ranjan needs some help and convinces him to hire a full-time housekeeper.
Following Rajaram’s social media announcement, Helen (Aditi Rao Hydari) arrives at Dubey Niwas to apply for the job. She initially hesitates after discovering that Ranjan lives alone. However, his polite and considerate behaviour puts her at ease, and she eventually accepts the position.
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With Helen around, Ranjan’s otherwise lonely routine starts changing. From delicious home-cooked meals to neatly ironed clothes, he begins enjoying the little comforts of having someone around. Gradually, he develops feelings for her. But Helen is hiding something important. Her real name is Manu Joshi, and her past holds secrets that could change everything between them. What happens when Ranjan discovers the truth forms the rest of the story.
Parivarik ManuRanjan Review
The biggest strength of Parivarik ManuRanjan is its uncomplicated approach to romance. Instead of relying on dramatic declarations or forced romantic moments, the film allows Ranjan and Manu’s relationship to develop naturally. Their bond grows through everyday conversations, small gestures and the comfort they find in each other’s company.
Director Varun V. Sharma deserves credit for keeping the treatment simple and largely free from excessive melodrama. The small-town setting also adds to its appeal. The social reactions to a young woman living in an unmarried man’s house are portrayed quite naturally. An unexpected midpoint twist brings some intrigue, while the humour and emotional moments keep the narrative pleasant.
However, the writing doesn’t maintain the same quality throughout. The initial setup is engaging, but the film gradually loses its grip after the midpoint. The central conflict lacks the strength needed to sustain the narrative, and several developments feel convenient. Ranjan never asking Helen for identity proof before hiring her is difficult to overlook. Manu’s family is repeatedly mentioned, but the film never explores that side of her life.
The climax, despite having a well-written monologue, doesn’t deliver the dramatic impact one expects. Ranjan chooses to confront the situation through reasoning rather than aggression. This approach is consistent with his character, but the resolution feels a little too convenient. The screenplay could certainly have benefited from a tighter second half and a more engaging conflict.
Music And Technical Aspects
The music is average and doesn’t leave a particularly strong impression. Joel Crasto’s background score, however, complements the film’s gentle mood and supports its emotional moments. Anup Singh’s cinematography captures the Lucknow setting satisfactorily, while Steven Bernard’s editing keeps the 114-minute narrative reasonably crisp. The film doesn’t aim for visual grandeur, and its technical treatment remains simple, in keeping with the story.
Parivarik ManuRanjan Performances
Pankaj Tripathi is in his comfort zone and delivers a thoroughly likeable performance. He brings warmth, humour and sincerity to Ranjan, a straightforward man who believes in treating people with respect. His expressions and effortless dialogue delivery make even ordinary household moments entertaining.
Aditi Rao Hydari is equally good as Helen and Manu. She handles the two sides of her character with ease and brings a lovely screen presence to the film. Her comic timing works particularly well, and she shares a natural chemistry with Tripathi. Their interactions are easily among the most enjoyable parts of the film.
Brijendra Kala is dependable as Rajaram and adds humour whenever he appears. Sunita Rajwar is effective in her role, while Mukesh Tiwari makes his presence felt. Vijayant Kohli, who plays Harishankar, provides able support. The rest of the supporting cast also performs well.
Final Verdict
Parivarik ManuRanjan is a pleasant romantic comedy-drama that finds its heart in the charming pairing of Pankaj Tripathi and Aditi Rao Hydari. Its simple storytelling, relatable moments and emphasis on companionship make it an easy watch. However, an inconsistent screenplay, an underdeveloped conflict and a tame climax prevent it from becoming a more memorable entertainer.
It may not offer anything particularly fresh, but the lead performances and the warmth of its central relationship make it worth a watch. If you enjoy simple, old-school romantic dramas, you can give this one a chance. Parivarik ManuRanjan is currently streaming on SonyLIV.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
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