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Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Chidiya review: This simple tale about badminton soars on hope and a lot of heart
One gets thrown off a bit, seeing Pahlaj Nihalani's (former CBFC chairperson) signature on the censor certificate as Chidiya begins. It's taken the film 10 years to see the light of day in theatres. The struggle for smaller films to find good exhibition and distribution continues—but it's finally available now. And thank God for that. The story revolves around two brothers, Shanu and Bua (played by Svar Kamble and Ayush Pathak), who cannot attend school due to financial constraints. Yet, they live a content life with their mother (Amruta Subhash) in a Mumbai chawl, alongside their kind-hearted neighbour Balai (Vinay Pathak), a spot boy in the Hindi film industry. Their mother, burdened by reality, pushes them to start working, and they find themselves employed at a tea stall on a film set. One fine day, Shreyas Talpade—playing himself—gifts Shanu a shuttlecock, or chidiya in Hindi. Thus begins a heartfelt mission: to play the 'chidiya wala game'- badminton. That, in essence, is the plot. Written and directed by Mehran Amrohi, the film's tone is optimistic. How one simple game becomes a boy's dream, shielding him from the harshness his mother endures, is both moving and tender. Vinay Pathak's Balai is a standout character — paternal toward Shanu and Bua, treating them no differently than his own daughter. The film chooses to believe that the world is inherently kind. From the neighbourhood tailor to the tea stall owner, everyone extends warmth. The only antagonist here is the circumstance, not any individual. It's important to remember that Chidiya was made in a pre-OTT era, when theatres and television were the two primary mediums of entertainment. The screenplay remains simple, almost old-school, but it's to the film's credit that it keeps you engaged despite the slow-burn pace. No small feat in an age of shrinking attention spans. Amruta Subhash delivers a compelling performance as the guilt-ridden mother. Svar and Ayush, the two child actors, hold their ground remarkably well against seasoned actors. Brijendra Kala, as the kind tea stall owner, lends dignity to his small yet memorable role. In closing, Chidiya is a gentle reminder of the power of small dreams and everyday kindness. It may not roar with dramatic highs, but it speaks in a sincere voice that stays with you.
India Today
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Chidiya review: A tender tale of dreams, struggles and resilience in Mumbai chawl
Most of us will agree — after a hard day, nothing soothes the soul like a hot plate of ghar ka khana. 'Chidiya', directed by Mehran Amrohi, feels exactly the same. It's the kind of film that wraps around you like a cosy blanket on a cold evening, or a hug from a friend when you are low. A film that doesn't just play on screen — it quietly finds a home in your in a modest Mumbai chawl, the story follows brothers Shanu (Svar Kamble) and Bua (Ayush Pathak), who are thrust into adulthood responsibilities far too early after the sudden loss of their father. When a chance encounter with a game of badminton sparks a dream, they set out on a mission to play just one crowdsourcing to buying badminton rackets, setting up a net made of waste clothes, to cleaning an empty ground to create their own makeshift court — the boys battle life's odds with grit, innocence, and hearts filled with hope. Every time they inch closer to that one game, life throws a new hurdle — but they persist, hand in hand, with tears in their eyes and a smile on their faces. advertisement The film's emotional core lies in its relationships. The bond between the brothers, their recently widowed mother, a supportive uncle, and even a cousin — each connection is delicately crafted and deeply felt. Their interactions with the local tailor or the film set staff brim with warmth and authenticity, making the story seem like a lived Subhash shines as the heartbroken yet fierce mother. Her anguish at seeing her children lose their childhood is palpable, but so is her unwavering strength. The scene where she fights with a neighbour, scolding her children will make your heart melt. Vinay Pathak brings understated charm as their uncle — supportive in quiet, consistent ways. But it's the two young leads — Svar Kamble and Ayush Pathak — who carry the film with surprising maturity. Their honest eyes, raw emotions, and seamless delivery make them breakout stars. Their chemistry, especially in scenes with Hetal Gada, Inaamulhaq and Brijendra Kala, adds depth and emotional layers to the Amrohi also paints a vivid portrait of what working on a film set looks like — the chaos, the fatigue, the mythmaking. A scene where young Bua wonders aloud why it takes days to shoot a three-hour film is both hilarious and revealing. And Pathak's character claiming Amitabh Bachchan wants only him around while at work - a usual Bollywood brag by people who work with popular an age where content is abundant, but emotion often feels diluted, Chidiya is a rare gem. Honest, heartwarming, funny, and beautifully detailed — it reminds us of why we fell in love with cinema in the first place.4 out of 5 stars to 'Chidiya'.Trending Reel
Time Out Abu Dhabi
06-05-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Bua Thai Cafe in Abu Dhabi
You know those hidden spots that you almost miss by walking right by – but once you find them, you never stop talking about them? Bua Thai Café at Yas Bay Waterfront is exactly that. Tiny, cosy and packed with flavour, this blink-and-you'll-miss-it spot serves up some of the most authentic Thai food in town – complete with a Thai government stamp of approval and a heartwarming story behind every dish. Part of the award-winning Desert Lotus Group (they also run the highly commended Thai restaurant Desert Lotus), Bua Thai isn't just a place to eat; it's a full-on love letter to Thailand, signed, sealed and stir-fried by chef Bua herself. Her culinary journey began with preparing meals for earthquake victims in Nepal. The café embodies a story of resilience and passion. (Credit: Bua Thai Cafe) The vibe is relaxed, but don't mistake this for quiet. This place is packed more often than not, whether it's lunchtime or late dinner o'clock. You can pick from both indoor and outdoor seating. Inside, it's cosy and intimate, seating around 20 people, in comfy blue and purple velvet chairs and sofas. Outside, it's a prime spot for people watching or water views over the bay. But the food is the real star of the show. Things are kept traditional here, but for good reason – like they say, if it ain't broke… Signature dishes include the classic Pad Thai, but not as you know it. Go for the beef Pad Thai, perfectly seasoned and with just the right amount of heat. (Credit: Bua Thai Cafe) But for those who don't love spicy food, don't worry – staff will check and adjust spice levels to your liking. In fact, the massaman curry is a good one to try if you don't like heat in your food – rich and flavourful without burning your tongue. Portions at Bua Thai are on the smaller side, but with prices under Dhs70, it's a great place to enjoy Thai flavours without breaking the bank. In a neighbourhood packed with delicious dining options, Bua Thai Café proves that sometimes, the best things really do come in small packages. So next time you're strolling Yas Bay Waterfront, keep your eyes (and appetite) wide open – because missing this little spot would be a very big mistake.
