Mumbai: Netflix returns with another engaging young-adult romance, introducing debutant Ibrahim Ali Khan and marking Khushi Kapoor’s second film with the streaming giant. Nadaaniyan, a lighthearted and charming rom-com, beautifully encapsulates the Gen-Z experience, blending humor, emotions, and a sprinkle of deception. Produced under Karan Johar’s Dharmatic Entertainment, the film weaves a narrative of modern romance, ambition, and the omnipresent influence of social media while introducing a lead pair that sizzles with undeniable chemistry. This fresh, youthful film speaks directly to a generation seeking comfort in connections while often getting entangled in their complexities.
Storyline
Set against the backdrop of today’s fast-paced digital era, Nadaaniyan follows Pia Jaisingh (Khushi Kapoor), a wealthy and influential social media personality whose life appears flawlessly curated. Beneath her confident persona, however, lies a young woman grappling with self-doubt, constantly craving validation from so-called friends—a stark reflection of the social dilemmas that shouldn’t define real friendships. Compounding her struggles is her patriarchal household, which further shapes her emotional battles.
Enter Arjun Mehta (Ibrahim Ali Khan), a charismatic, street-smart Noida boy with big dreams of becoming a lawyer. Unlike Pia, he remains unfazed by the superficiality of the influencer world. Their contrasting worlds collide, leading to a whirlwind of emotions, misunderstandings, and, inevitably, romance.
The heart of the film lies in the evolving relationship between Pia and Arjun. Their love story isn’t an overnight affair; it unfolds naturally through clashes, revelations, and tender moments. The narrative explores ambition, personal growth, and the impact of digital culture on human connections.
Adding depth to the film is a stellar supporting cast. Suniel Shetty and Mahima Chaudhary deliver heartfelt performances as Pia’s protective yet affectionate parents, while Jugal Hansraj and Dia Mirza shine as Arjun’s nurturing family. Social media influencers Apoorva Mukhija and Agastya Shah make their acting debuts, seamlessly blending into the Gen-Z landscape. Certain scenes feel as if they’ve been lifted straight from contemporary youth experiences, making them highly relatable. Complementing the storytelling is the film’s soundtrack, which successfully sets the right mood with a mix of peppy tracks and soulful melodies.
Performance
His portrayal strikes a perfect balance between playfulness and emotional depth, proving that he has inherited not only his father’s striking looks but also his acting prowess. His dance sequences are an added delight, but it’s his natural screen presence that truly captivates.
Khushi Kapoor shines as Pia, portraying a character that’s stylish, witty, and emotionally layered. The actress shows remarkable growth from her previous Netflix outing, bringing authenticity to her performance. The chemistry between Ibrahim and Khushi feels organic—never forced, but rather a slow burn that keeps the audience engaged.
Suniel Shetty once again proves why he’s a fan favorite, delivering an effortlessly strong performance. Dia Mirza particularly stands out, leaving the audience yearning for more of her presence on screen. Meanwhile, Mahima Chaudhary’s role, though impactful, could have been further explored. Content creators Apoorva and Agastya bring their digital charisma to the big screen with ease, making their presence feel genuine and uncontrived.
Direction & Cinematic Execution
Shauna Gautam, in her directorial debut, demonstrates a deep understanding of today’s youth and their digital-driven realities. She skillfully presents themes of social media’s pressures, the complexity of friendships, and the longing for authentic connections. The film’s aesthetic is vibrant and modern, perfectly catering to its target audience.
The soundtrack complements the storyline beautifully, featuring foot-tapping numbers and lingering melodies that stay with you long after the credits roll. The screenplay is engaging, though certain subplots feel underdeveloped, leaving some potential untapped. A few rushed storylines could have been expanded to provide greater emotional depth. However, the film largely succeeds in delivering a heartfelt and engaging narrative.
Final Verdict
At its core, Nadaaniyan is more than just a romantic drama—it’s a story of self-discovery and learning to distinguish between genuine relationships and superficial ones. Ibrahim Ali Khan makes an impressive debut, proving his potential as a promising actor, while Khushi Kapoor continues to refine her craft. With its breezy narrative, relatable themes, and a fresh take on modern love, Nadaaniyan stands as a delightful Gen-Z watch.
