Ajay Devgn and Tabu return to the big screen with Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, a drama that attempts to blend romance with deep emotional undertones. Directed by Neeraj Panday, the film’s promising premise struggles under the weight of an overstretched narrative and conventional storytelling.

Plot Summary

The film begins with Krishna (Ajay Devgn), a convict who has been serving a double murder sentence for 23 years and surprisingly shows no desire to leave prison. The crux of the story lies in understanding why he committed the crime and why he wants to stay behind bars.

Flashbacks take us to 2001, where a young Krishna (Shantanu Maheshwari) falls in love with Vasudha (Saiee Manjrekar). Their youthful romance is believable, setting the stage for their older selves, played by Ajay Devgn and Tabu, to take over. A pivotal night changes everything for Krishna and Vasudha, leading to their separation and the ensuing turmoil.

The Good and the Bad

Performances

Ajay Devgn and Tabu, seasoned actors, deliver competent performances. Ajay’s portrayal of the brooding Krishna is effective, while Tabu handles her role with ease. Shantanu Maheshwari brings a fresh charm to his younger version of Krishna, and Saiee Manjrekar shines in her substantial role. However, the standout moments are the lighter, humorous scenes that bring relief to the otherwise heavy narrative.

Story and Direction

The film’s structure, with its numerous flashbacks and a slow-paced first half, can be challenging to follow. The narrative attempts to build intrigue but ends up feeling stretched and overly complicated. The second half, with its repetitive sequences shown from different perspectives, feels more like a daily soap opera than a cinematic drama.

Cinematography and Music

The film’s cinematography captures the emotional landscapes well, but the music by MM Keeravani falls short of expectations. While the film tries to incorporate nostalgic elements, such as the song Jeeta Tha Jiske Liye these moments are not enough to salvage the overall experience.

Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha:

Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha had the potential to be a poignant exploration of love and regret but falters due to its lengthy and convoluted storytelling. While the performances are solid and the film has its moments of brilliance, the overextension makes it a taxing watch.

Also Read.Ulajh Movie Review: Janhvi Kapoor Shines Despite a Tangled Plot.

Final Verdict

Fans of Ajay Devgn and Tabu might find reasons to enjoy the film, but for others, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha may feel like an overstretched drama. The film’s message of enduring love and the complexities of human emotions is compelling but gets lost in its execution. Catch it if you are a die-hard fan, but be prepared for a long ride.