David Dhawan’s latest film ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ once again takes us into the familiar world of relationship misunderstandings, love triangles, and comic confusion-something his cinema was once famous for. However, this time, the story, comedy, and emotions fail to deliver the impact expected from a big-budget commercial entertainer.

The film moves ahead in the name of light comedy, but in many places it feels repetitive and outdated, making it feel tired rather than entertaining.

Film Details

CategoryDetails
FilmHai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai
Release DateJune 5, 2026
GenreRomantic Comedy / Family Drama
DirectorDavid Dhawan
WritersYunus Sajawal, Farhad Samji (dialogues)
CastVarun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur, Pooja Hegde, Jimmy Shergill, Maniesh Paul
LanguageHindi
Rating2.5/5

What is the Story of ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’?

The story revolves around Jas (Varun Dhawan), who is facing tension and distance in his marriage with Bani (Mrunal Thakur). After five years of marriage, conflicts over career and family priorities deepen their issues.

Amid this confusion, Jas travels to London, where he meets Preet (Pooja Hegde). The situation becomes even more complicated when both Bani and Preet arrive around the same time with pregnancy news.

What follows is a chain of lies, cover-ups, and misunderstandings, where Jas, along with his friend (Maniesh Paul), tries to manage the chaos. Meanwhile, Preet’s brother (Jimmy Shergill) adds tension with his strict and aggressive presence.

Review: Old Comedy, New Expectations Undelivered

The biggest problem with the film is its outdated comedy approach. David Dhawan’s formula, which worked well in the 90s and 2000s, feels outdated in today’s context.

Mistaken identities, relationship confusion, and over-the-top comic sequences often feel forced rather than funny. There is more repetition of old formulas than any attempt at freshness.

In the second half, the film loses its grip further, making it difficult to maintain audience engagement.

Direction and Screenplay

David Dhawan’s direction remains commercial in style, but this time the film clearly lacks freshness and energy.

The story by Yunus Sajawal and dialogues by Farhad Samji try to generate comedy, but not every punchline works. Many scenes feel like they are lifted from old Bollywood comedy setups.

The tone sometimes feels artificial, which reduces the emotional impact as well.

Acting: Varun Dhawan’s Energy is the Film’s Biggest Strength

Varun Dhawan

Varun Dhawan stands out as the most energetic performer. His timing, energy, and screen presence save several scenes from falling flat.

Mrunal Thakur

Mrunal’s character is limited in scope, giving her little room to explore her performance.

Pooja Hegde

Pooja Hegde is decent in her role, but the script doesn’t offer much depth.

Supporting Cast

Jimmy Shergill, Maniesh Paul, Chunky Pandey, and others try their best, but weak writing limits their impact.

Technical Aspects: Locations and Music Offer Some Relief

The film looks visually appealing, especially due to the London locations. The cinematography and production design give it a glossy feel.

The music, including some recreated old hits, adds energy to a few scenes, but it cannot fully cover up the weak storytelling.

What Works?

  • Varun Dhawan’s strong performance
  • Beautiful London locations
  • A few light comic moments
  • Glossy production value
  • Supportive background score

What Doesn’t Work?

  • Outdated and repetitive comedy formula
  • Weak and predictable screenplay
  • Slow second half
  • Limited writing for female characters
  • Lack of emotional connection

Should You Watch It?

Watch it if:

  • You enjoy light comedy films
  • You are a Varun Dhawan fan
  • You like old-school Bollywood entertainers

Skip it if:

  • You want a fresh and new storyline
  • You prefer smart and sharp comedy
  • You expect tight and logical screenplay

Final Verdict

‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ is a film that completely relies on David Dhawan’s old comedy formula but fails to adapt to changing times.

Varun Dhawan’s energy and a few light moments prevent it from collapsing completely, but the weak story and outdated treatment keep it stuck as an average entertainer.

Rating: 2.5/5

Overall, the film offers a glimpse of David Dhawan’s classic comedy style, but fails to recreate its real magic.