Param Sundari (2025) Review!!

Synopsis – In Kerala’s picturesque backwaters, a North Indian and South Indian find unexpected love. Their cultural differences spark a hilarious and chaotic romance, full of twists and turns. Two diverse worlds collide in a heartwarming story.

My Take – We have seen North-South romance play out before. Though some of these stories take a more serious & tragic approach, like Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981), most of these film usually employ a more cutesy and comical narrative, as seen in films like Chennai Express (2013) and 2 States (2014).

At first glance, Maddock Films’ latest release seems to be offering something on the same lines. Just a new play on Punjabi ‘munda’ meets Malayali ‘penkutti’ and the two fall in love, but society and cultural differences are going to be a problem. A mid-budget Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) with an ‘explore Kerala’ agenda.

However, it is that classic charm of romance, laughter, and emotions that eventually wins us over. And with the charming Sidharth Malhotra and gorgeous Janhvi Kapoor leading the show, the film ensures a delightful, soothing, and heartwarming cinematic experience.

Helmed by director Tushar Jalota (Dasvi), the breezy entertainer celebrates everything from cross-cultural bonds to family drama, from comic timing to heartfelt emotions.

Yes, the screenplay, co-written by Tushar Jalota, Gaurav Mishra and Aarsh Vora occasionally feels stretched, but the heart of the story remains intact throughout. Particularly, its fresh take on Gen-Z romance. In a time when apps and algorithms are shaping love lives, the film reminds us that real connections go far beyond technology. Making the film easily one of the most enjoyable rom-coms of the season.

The story follows Param Sachdev (Sidharth Malhotra), an ambitious yet reckless tech investor from Delhi who is yet to make a mark for himself and prove his mettle to his businessman father (Sanjay Kapoor). After a series of debacles, Param feels a new start-up app called Find My Soulmate, which promises to find the perfect soulmate, could be the game changer for him, but all it needs is a little seed money.

Though his father agrees to help him out, he also gives him a month’s wager to prove that the app works for Param himself. And to his surprise, it ends up matching him to Thekkepattu “Sundari” Damodharan Pillai (Janhvi Kapoor), a homestay owner from Kerala who runs her ancestral Tharavad (family house) along with her younger sister, Ammu (Inayat Verma). With his loyal friend Juggi (Manjot Singh) at his side, Param travels to Kerala, determined to win his father’s support.

However, what begins as a transactional plan soon blossoms into a heartfelt romance. The film thrives on its simplicity. Sure, the narrative doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but that very simplicity makes it effective. It’s the kind of film that rekindles the old-school magic of love while staying relevant to today’s audience.

With the stunning Kerala landscapes and the cultural crossover between a Delhi boy and a traditional Malayali girl bringing vibrancy and freshness to the storytelling. The screenplay is light, breezy, and filled with comical moments that add flavor without feeling overdone.

The first half is particularly impressive, with playful banter between the leads. The second half leans more on emotions, drama, and heartfelt romance, striking a balance that keeps the film engaging throughout.

Some tropes—like Sundari’s sacrifice or the airport scene may feel familiar, but director Jalota’s treatment ensures we remain entertained. A tighter runtime by 10–15 minutes would have sharpened the experience, but the overall package still works decently.

Performance wise, Sidharth Malhotra delivers one of his most charming turns till date. His comedic timing, dramatic intensity, and romantic sincerity makes Param both flawed and endearing. Janhvi Kapoor matches him beautifully. Her Sundari is warm, grounded, and brimming with sincerity. She effortlessly lights up every scene, whether in humorous banter or emotional depth. Together, their chemistry sparkles and becomes the film’s biggest strength.

Manjot Singh is a hoot. As the loyal and funny sidekick, he adds freshness and laughter, balancing the emotional highs with witty relief. Sanjay Kapoor, Renji Panicker, Siddhartha Shankar, Inayat Verma and Abhishek Banerjee contribute meaningfully. On the whole, ‘Param Sundari‘ is a delightful lighthearted rom com that effortlessly blends charm and culture.