Review : Dhak Dhak : Solving life’s issues on wheels!

The subject of women empowerment through films has been doing rounds in recent times. There an addition to the list in the form of Dhak Dhak. Frankly it has nothing to do with our very own Dhak Dhak girl Madhuri Dixit, but it pertains to the motorcycle’s sound. In a male dominant society, last few decades, has been important for women as the females across the countries have started to battle for equal rights. In India, religion, casteism and social divide have been responsible for women being oppressed. Nothing is more amazing than seeing women go for their goals and succeed in spite of social constraints. Dhak Dhak is the story of four ordinary women who transform into impressive bikers, their on-road adventures, and the heartwarming camaraderie they share.

Shashi Kumar Yadav aka Sky (Fatima Sana Shaikh) is a travel blogger whose boyfriend has betrayed her trust by posting her semi nude pictures on the net. She is troubled mentally and is looking for a way out to get over this betrayal. Manpreet Kaur Sethi aka Mahi (Ratna Pathak Shah) wins a motorcycle in a lucky draw and as a last resort starts riding it. She is keen on visiting Khardung La point on bike and circumstances offer her Sky’s company for the same. They require an on road mechanic and Uzma (Dia Mirza), a car mechanic’s wife, joins them. Lastly Manjari (Sanjana Sanghi), wants to live her life before she is forced into an arranged marriage. These four ladies from different strata of society with different temperaments take the expedition to Khardung La. What transpires during their bike journey forms the crux of the story.

The screenplay is straight forward and doesn’t complicate viewer’s mind. The dialogues are impressive and some witty one liners are really good which bring laughter. Direction is good and the diversifying inter personal relation are ably captured. Tarun Dutta has beautifully woven all character’s past and present conflicts.
The production values are high class and the locations are breathtaking. The cinematography is worth mentioning as it captures many beautiful locales which are mesmerising. The first half is crisp but the second one drags a bit. Editor should have chopped some portion as two hour seventeen minutes seem too long in the end. Ratna Pathak Shah uses her experience and expertise to elevate her portrayal. Dia Mirza looks beautiful and her role too is well etched out. Sanjana Sanghi displays her ability and plays a shy and weak Manjari convincingly. Fatima Sana Shaikh has done a very good job and she shines in all her scenes besides looking beautiful.

Dhak Dhak subtly puts forth women’s issues and aspiration through a road trip on bike. The quartet tries to solve life’s issues on wheels.

***

Keerti Kadam.