Aabeer Gulaal is a cinematic Holi explosion—vibrant, chaotic, and utterly delightful.
Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, this 2025 romantic comedy stars Fawad Khan as Aabeer Singh, a reserved, by the book, restaurateur, and Vaani Kapoor as Gulaal, a feisty and chaotic Rajasthani runaway escaping an arranged marriage to chase her dreams in London. The film blends romance, humor, and cultural richness into a feel-good ride that leaves you humming Amit Trivedi’s catchy tunes and smiling at love’s border-defying magic.
London’s Gorgeous Backdrops
London isn’t just a setting in Aabeer Gulaal—it’s a character that steals the show. Cinematographer Tribhuvan Babu Sadineni captures the city’s eclectic charm, from misty Thames riversides to bustling markets and foggy parks, with a warm, almost painterly glow. A standout moment is spotting a Banksy artwork—a girl tossing vibrant powder—in a lively chase scene, mirroring Gulaal’s rebellious spirit. These urban touches, paired with iconic landmarks, create a dreamy contrast to the protagonists’ Indian roots, making every frame a postcard-worthy blend of grit and romance. Whether it’s a spontaneous dance or a quiet moment of connection, the visuals elevate the story into a love letter to London’s soul.
Rajasthani Culture: A Heartfelt Celebration
The film’s heart pulses with Rajasthani culture, woven in with authenticity and warmth. Gulaal’s vibrant lehengas, folk dance thumkas, and family traditions shine, whether she’s teaching bemused Londoners Bollywood moves or recreating Rajasthani dishes at Aabeer’s restaurant, ‘The Rasoi.’ These elements aren’t just decorative—they ground the story in a rich cultural tapestry, making the clash of worlds both hilarious and heartfelt. The film celebrates heritage without feeling forced, bridging Rajasthan’s colorful traditions with London’s cosmopolitan vibe in a way that feels fresh and genuine.
Laugh-Out-Loud Humor
Prepare to laugh out loud! The movie delivers some hilarious moments, 15 minutes in. Gulaal’s “fresh off the boat” antics—spilling spices in Aabeer’s kitchen or mistaking a pub for a chai stall—are pure comedic gold. A hilarious highlight is when Aabeer orders escargot at a fancy restaurant, only for Gulaal to chirp, “Make it veggie, please!” with such earnest naiveté that the waiter’s confusion and Aabeer’s exasperated eye-roll spark endless giggles. Her chaotic job interview at The Rasoi piles on the mishaps, feeling delightfully unscripted. The supporting cast, including Lisa Haydon’s quirky cameos, adds sharp one-liners that poke fun at cultural quirks without malice, making the humor inclusive and infectious.
Vibrant Gulaal: A Naive Firecracker
Vaani Kapoor is a revelation as Gulaal, radiating vibrant, naive energy that’s equal parts endearing and chaotic. Her wide-eyed wonder mixed with unfiltered enthusiasm makes Gulaal a standout, far from the typical Bollywood heroine. From botching recipes to dancing with abandon, Vaani’s expressive charm and comedic timing bring a light to the screen. She nails the small-town dreamer navigating big-city life, infusing Gulaal with a bubbly innocence that makes her journey relatable and her mishaps hilarious.
Fawad Khan’s Mesmerizing Aabeer
Fawad Khan is the film’s secret weapon, delivering a mesmerizing performance as Aabeer. His thoughtful dialogue delivery—lines about love, loss, and second chances—lands with poignant weight, carried by his mezmerizing voice, intentional pauses and stellar screen presence.
When he sings the lines “kuch na kaho” it’s pure magic, blending vulnerability and charisma — that scene is the highlight of the film — it draws you in and you can feel the two characters getting closer. Fawad’s detail-oriented acting shines in every gesture: a hesitant glance, a protective stance, or the way he adjusts his kurta or suit. His eye contact in romantic scenes draws you into Aabeer’s soul, making the chemistry with Gulaal sizzle. It’s a performance of precision and depth, proving why his comeback is a cinematic event.
Verdict: The middle drags slightly with overlong segues, and the climax treads familiar rom-com ground. But these are minor quibbles and editing glitches in a movie that prioritizes joy and heart. With its dazzling London visuals, rich Rajasthani flavor, laugh-out-loud moments (that escargot scene!), and charismatic performances, Aabeer Gulaal transcends borders with effortless charm. Grab your popcorn and let this colorful ride sweep you away!
Maheen Mustafa wrote this feature. She is the founder of MTG, a Seattle-based media outlet and production house that aims to elevate and amplify BIPOC and immigrant narratives and perspectives through impactful storytelling. @MaheenM_.