Shubh Mangal Saavdhan: A Conservative Take on Modern Romance

In 2017, Bollywood released a film that had everyone talking, and not always for the right reasons. "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan," directed by R.S. Prasanna, hit the screens in India, a country where traditional values often clash with modern sensibilities. The film, set in the bustling city of Delhi, revolves around a young couple, Mudit and Sugandha, who are engaged to be married. But there's a twist: Mudit suffers from erectile dysfunction, a topic that is still taboo in many parts of the world. The film attempts to tackle this sensitive issue with humor and sensitivity, but let's be honest, it also raises some eyebrows.

First off, let's talk about the elephant in the room. Why is Bollywood, a film industry known for its song-and-dance routines and family dramas, suddenly obsessed with bedroom issues? It's as if the filmmakers are trying to push an agenda, normalizing topics that many believe should remain private. The film's attempt to address erectile dysfunction is seen by some as a bold move, but others argue it's just another way to chip away at traditional values. After all, isn't marriage supposed to be about more than just physical compatibility?

The film's portrayal of Mudit's condition is meant to be humorous, but it often comes across as awkward and forced. The constant jokes and innuendos might make some viewers uncomfortable, especially those who believe that certain topics should be handled with more discretion. It's almost as if the filmmakers are trying too hard to be edgy and modern, forgetting that not everyone is on board with this new wave of openness.

Moreover, the film's setting in Delhi, a city known for its rich cultural heritage, seems almost ironic. Here we have a story that challenges traditional norms, set against the backdrop of a city that embodies those very traditions. It's a stark contrast that might leave some viewers wondering if the filmmakers are trying to make a statement about the clash between old and new India. But is this really the right way to do it?

The characters in "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan" are another point of contention. Mudit and Sugandha are portrayed as a modern couple, yet their relationship is riddled with issues that seem to stem from a lack of communication. Instead of addressing the problem head-on, they tiptoe around it, relying on humor to mask their discomfort. This might be entertaining for some, but it also highlights a deeper issue: the reluctance to have honest conversations about important topics. Is this really the kind of relationship we want to promote?

And let's not forget the supporting characters, who are often used as comic relief. Their exaggerated reactions and over-the-top antics might be funny to some, but they also perpetuate stereotypes that many are trying to move away from. It's as if the filmmakers are stuck in a time warp, unable to break free from the clichés that have plagued Bollywood for decades.

The film's release in 2017 was met with mixed reviews, and it's not hard to see why. While some praised it for its boldness, others criticized it for its lack of depth and reliance on cheap laughs. It's a film that tries to tackle a serious issue but ends up trivializing it in the process. For those who value traditional storytelling and meaningful narratives, "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan" might be a disappointment.

In the end, "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan" is a film that tries to be progressive but ends up being divisive. It's a reminder that not everyone is ready to embrace the new wave of openness that seems to be sweeping across the entertainment industry. For those who believe in preserving traditional values, this film might just be another example of how far we've strayed from the path.