The recently released teaser for the upcoming Dharma Productions film, “Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari” (SSKTK), has sparked a massive debate on social media, with many netizens questioning the casting choices. While the teaser gives fans a glimpse into what seems to be a familiar, ‘Badrinath ki Dulhania’-esque vibe, the inclusion of acclaimed actress Sanya Malhotra in a secondary role has raised a few eyebrows.
The heart of the controversy lies in the fact that Sanya Malhotra, an actress who has proven her mettle with stellar performances in critically acclaimed films like ‘Dangal’, ‘Pagglait‘, and ‘Kathal’, has been cast as the second lead alongside Janhvi Kapoor. Many social media users have expressed their disappointment, arguing that Malhotra’s talent and filmography far outweigh Kapoor’s, making her a more deserving candidate for the lead role.
This has led to a barrage of comments on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where users are calling out what they perceive as blatant nepotism and unfair practices in the film industry. One user commented, “This is the perfect example of how Bollywood works. A talented and versatile actress like Sanya Malhotra is given a supporting role, while Janhvi Kapoor, with a less impressive track record, gets the lead.” Another user wrote, “This is so disappointing. Sanya is in a different league altogether. It’s a shame that talent has to take a backseat to connections.”
Amidst the criticism, there is a silver lining for Varun Dhawan’s fans. The teaser, which showcases Varun in a quirky, small-town character, is reminiscent of his beloved role as Badrinath Bansal. This has created a wave of nostalgia and excitement among his fans, who have been eagerly waiting to see him in a similar avatar. Many have taken to social media to express their joy, with comments like, “Our Badri is back! This teaser gives me major ‘Badrinath Ki Dulhania’ vibes, and I’m all for it!” and “Varun Dhawan is the king of this genre. I can’t wait to see him on the big screen again.”
Directed by Shashank Khaitan, who also helmed “Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania” and “Badrinath Ki Dulhania,” “Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari” features an ensemble cast including Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, and Rohit Saraf. The film is produced by Karan Johar and is slated for a theatrical release on October 2nd, coinciding with the Dussehra festival. While the teaser has certainly stirred up a conversation, it remains to be seen how the film will be received by audiences upon its release.