Sharmaji Namkeen, released on 31st March 2022, is directed by debutant Hitesh Bhatia and is also the last film starring late Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor.
The film is the first of its kind, interchanging the ‘Sharmaji’ character between Rishi-ji and Paresh Rawal.
Directed by: Hitesh Bhatia
Run time: 2 hours
Rating: 4/5
Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Juhi Chawla, Satish Kaushik, Suhail Nayyar, Taaruk Raina, Isha Talwar, Sheeba Chadha and Ayesha Raza Mishra
Storyline
Sharmaji (Rishi Kapoor & Paresh Rawal) is all set to spend his retirement with his two sons. However, there’s only so much a man can do to pass his spare time. Sharmaji finds himself getting bored more often than busy and he’s not used to the new retirement life. On his regular rendezvous with his neighbour (Satish Kaushik), Sharmaji comes up with an elaborate plan to keep himself occupied.
Next thing you know, Sharmaji is starting his own food catering business to stay in touch with his passion for cooking. Although his sons think him to be slightly overdoing it, Sharmaji has no problem following his love for food. He then comes across a group of ladies who host kitty parties and begins catering for them. Amidst these lovely women, the newly retired senior finds himself growing fond of one in particular – Veena (Juhi Chawla). Take a look at his journey that includes ups and downs but more than that, love and laughter.
What do we think?
To think that this is the last time Chintu-ji will ever be seen in a new project is unsettling. The love and admiration we have for the late Rishi Kapoor only makes us tear up towards the end. Rishi-ji has shown us just why he is considered to be one of the greatest actors in all of Bollywood history. From the corners of his mouth expressing his current emotion or from the way he ensures every dialogue has a feel to it. Paresh Rawal, who did a marvelous job in continuing where Rishi Kapoor left off, must be applauded. We think no other actor could have filled in those shoes are perfectly as Rawal. The strings in our heart are only tightening as we watch the two legends do what they do best on screen.
Hit or Miss?
The film is more than just a HIT. It is what we will forever remember as one of Rishi-ji’s finest and heartfelt works. Until next time…