Daana Paani: A Meaningful, Feel-Good Story About Found Family

Daana Paani (2018), An Underappreciated Period Piece Set in The Punjab Hinterlands

Regardless of the language or differing cultures, or even whether you're spiritually inclined, some cinematic works feel so strangely endearing and moving that they leave a lasting impression.

While The Screenplay is Quite Simplistic it is Also Rooted in Reality

Mehtaab is inadvertently mistaken for his deceased namesake and now finds himself tasked into entering a 'marriage of convenience' with the other Mehtaab's young bride Basant, who will otherwise be ostracized in the village due to her newly widowed status.

Challenges One's Worldview On Certain Complex Topics

This tale of two innocent yet unfortunate individuals finally discovering purpose and belonging, as well as recovering their dignity in the most unorthodox fashion is more so aided by the strong storytelling tools at its disposal

Its Themes And Storytelling Are its Beating Heart, The Performances Feel Very Much Like its Soul

With Shergill's ability to emote with his eyes alone lending much sympathy to the kind and gentlemanly Mehtaab and Simi Chahal also impressing with a mesmerizing and nuanced performance as the soft-spoken and graceful Basant.

Daana Paani May Be Niche

It's definitely a far cry from the shallow mainstream and stays with you not only with the rich artistic choices, but also with its message of the power held by selfless and meaningful acts in deconstructing even the worst of social stigmas.