Badhaai Do, a 2022 Indian Hindi-language social comedy-drama film directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni and produced by Junglee Pictures, embarks on a poignant journey that delves into the complexities of societal expectations, sexuality, and the true essence of family bonds. Serving as a spiritual sequel to the acclaimed Badhaai Ho released in 2018. The film boasts a stellar cast including Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar, alongside Gulshan Devaiah, Chum Darang, Sheeba Chaddha, and Seema Pahwa in supporting roles.
Why did Shardul approach Sumi for marriage?
The narrative revolves around Shardul Thakur, a closeted police officer stationed at a women’s precinct in Dehradun. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Sumi Singh, a physical education teacher. Sumi, tormented by a stalker who threatens to expose her sexuality, finds an unlikely ally in Shardul. In a bold move to quell societal pressure and familial expectations, Shardul proposes a lavender marriage to Sumi, sparking an unconventional alliance.
Following their honeymoon, Shardul and Sumi settle into police quarters, concealing their true identities as a homosexual couple. Sumi embarks on a romantic relationship with Rimjhim, a woman ostracized by her family after coming out. Rimjhim relocates to Sumi and Shardul’s residence, necessitating a facade where they portray her as a distant cousin. Amidst this arrangement, Sumi confides in Rimjhim her aspiration to become a parent.
Meanwhile, Shardul, while on duty patrolling a Pride protest, encounters Guru, a renowned criminal lawyer who unabashedly embraces his sexuality. Their connection blossoms into a romantic involvement, and Shardul introduces Guru to Sumi and Rimjhim.
Badhaai Do ending: Why did Shardul’s mother move in with the couple?
During a visit to Shardul’s family for Diwali, they face relentless questioning about their childlessness. Shardul resorts to fabricating Sumi’s infertility to appease his relatives. Subsequently, Shardul’s mother moves in, overseeing their intimacy, while Rimjhim temporarily vacates the premises. In a bid to maintain the charade, Sumi fabricates Shardul’s infertility, presenting falsified medical reports from Rimjhim’s workplace. Both families, confronted with the apparent infertility, agree to adoption, much to Sumi’s delight. An application is promptly submitted to an adoption agency.
The fragile equilibrium is shattered when Shardul’s mother inadvertently discovers Sumi and Rimjhim’s intimacy, leading to the revelation of Sumi’s sexuality. Shardul implores Sumi to conceal his own sexual orientation from their families. Sumi faces rejection from her mother and brother, with only her father remaining silent. Shardul, in an act of solidarity, confronts his family, coming out himself. Despite facing backlash from some relatives, Shardul finds acceptance from his mother.
Why did Shardul and Sumi decide to stay married?
Returning to their lives, Shardul boldly embraces his sexuality by donning a rainbow mask during his patrol at a Pride parade, publicly coming out to his colleagues. Despite initial plans for divorce, Shardul and Sumi decide to remain married upon discovering their successful adoption application.
A year later, Shardul and Sumi, accompanied by Rimjhim as a third parental figure, participate in an adoption ceremony at their residence. While many family members attend, some abstain. Unexpectedly, Shardul’s superior and his wife, unaware of the couple’s truth, arrive, prompting Rimjhim to momentarily step away. However, Sumi’s father gestures for Rimjhim to return, emphasizing the importance of her presence as a mother. Shardul extends an invitation for Guru to join him, solidifying their unconventional family unit. Despite initial confusion, Shardul’s superior and his wife stay, witnessing the joyous occasion, symbolizing acceptance and inclusivity as vibrant as a rainbow.
