Bollywood once again attempts to explore South India through a romantic comedy lens in Param Sundari, directed by Tushar Jalota. Starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, the film has an interesting premise involving technology, cultural contrasts, and love across boundaries. But despite its glossy presentation, it treads dangerously close to shallow representation.
What undeniably works in the film’s favour are the visuals. Cinematographer Santhana Krishnan Ravichandran captures Kerala with remarkable flair—lush green backwaters, swaying coconut trees, traditional tharavads, and even the vibrancy of a boat race. Each frame is postcard-perfect, giving the film a touristy charm that holds attention even when the screenplay falters. Kerala becomes more than just a backdrop; it feels like the film’s strongest character.
Adding to the appeal is Sachin–Jigar’s music, which provides moments of relief from the predictable storytelling. Songs like Pardesiya and Sundari Ke Pyaar Mein are hummable, while the background score complements the shifting moods of the narrative. The return of Sonu Nigam’s voice in one of the tracks adds nostalgia, lending the film a touch of warmth that resonates.
However, the strengths of cinematography and music cannot mask the cracks in the screenplay. Param Sundari leans heavily on clichés, repeating stereotypes about Kerala and Malayalis that feel outdated in 2025. From overused cultural markers like Kalaripayattu, Kathakali masks, and mundu jokes, to reducing Malayali identity into caricatures, the film fails to rise above its shallow representation. It evokes uncomfortable memories of Chennai Express, which did something similar for Tamils a decade ago.
The lead pair—Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor—look good together, but their chemistry often feels rehearsed rather than organic. Janhvi shines in traditional attire, though her Malayalam dialogues feel labored. Sidharth plays the charming North Indian convincingly, but his character’s arc remains surface-level. The supporting cast, especially Renji Panicker as the stern uncle and Manjot Singh as the goofy friend, injects occasional energy into the narrative.
At 136 minutes, the film overstays its welcome. The first half builds a promising premise, but the second half struggles to balance romance and comedy. It eventually arrives at a predictable climax, leaving viewers with little surprise or emotional impact.
Param Sundari is not without merit—it is a visually enchanting film with a melodic soundtrack. But when judged as a piece of cinema representing cultures, it disappoints. Bollywood’s fixation with reducing South Indian identities into simplistic boxes continues, robbing stories of depth and authenticity.
For audiences who enjoy light, glossy romances, Param Sundari may offer a passable watch. For others seeking freshness or genuine cultural representation, it feels like a missed opportunity.
CINEMA SPICE RATING: ★★✩☆☆ (2/5)