Tanvi the Great (2025): Why Anupam Kher’s Autism Drama Divides Critics But Wins Hearts

Anupam Kher steps behind the camera for this touching 2025 drama. His film stars fresh face Shubhangi Dutt with veterans Pallavi Joshi and Boman Irani. The movie dares to combine autism awareness with patriotic themes in ways we rarely see.

This Hindi-language film arrived in cinemas during July 2025. While critics remained divided, families found something special here. The story focuses on representation and dreams that seem impossible to achieve.

A Dream Worth Fighting For

Young Tanvi lives with her mother and army grandfather after losing her father. When she learns about her father’s unfulfilled military dream, everything changes. He wanted to reach Siachen Glacier and salute the Indian flag there.

Most people would call this impossible for someone with autism. But Tanvi sees things differently. Her journey becomes about proving that limitations exist mostly in other people’s minds, not in her reality.

I was moved by how the story treats her autism as just one part of who she is. Her determination and love for her father drive the plot forward. The military connection adds layers without overwhelming the personal story.

Acting That Feels Real

Shubhangi Dutt makes an impressive first appearance on screen. She brings naturalness to Tanvi that feels genuine rather than performed. Her expressions show depth without ever seeming theatrical or forced.

Anupam Kher balances his roles as both director and grandfather figure well. His character provides guidance without being preachy. The family chemistry between all actors creates believable relationships on screen.

Boman Irani and Pallavi Joshi fill their supporting roles with quiet strength. They understand that sometimes the best acting means staying in the background. Their presence anchors the emotional weight of the story.

Strong Points That Stand Out

The film treats autism with dignity and understanding. Instead of making Tanvi an object of pity, it shows her capabilities and dreams. This approach feels refreshing in Indian cinema where such characters often become stereotypes.

Kher’s direction maintains focus on human connections throughout. The army setting supports the story without taking over. Both the personal and patriotic elements blend naturally together.

I particularly liked how the film shows different perspectives on disability. Some characters doubt Tanvi while others believe in her. This creates realistic conflicts that many families actually face.

Where It Falls Short

Pacing becomes a real issue as the movie progresses. The first half moves smoothly, but later scenes drag unnecessarily. Some subplot threads could have been trimmed or removed entirely.

Certain dramatic moments feel too calculated. The film tries hard to create emotional peaks that don’t always work. More subtle storytelling might have been more effective in these cases.

The technical aspects need improvement too. Camera work and editing seem basic for a 2025 release. Better production values could have enhanced the story’s impact significantly.

Professional Critics Weigh In

Bollywood Hungama gave the film 2 out of 5 stars. They praised the intentions but questioned the execution. Most professional reviewers appreciated the subject matter while noting structural problems.

IMDb audiences were more generous with 7.4 out of 10. This gap between critics and viewers often happens with emotional family dramas. The story connects with hearts even when craft elements disappoint.

Several reviews mentioned the film’s sincerity as its saving grace. Critics recognized Kher’s good intentions even when disagreeing with his methods. This suggests respect for the project’s goals if not its results.

Audience Reactions Tell Another Story

Families have embraced this movie in ways critics haven’t. Social media shows parents sharing how the film opened conversations about disability with their children. These discussions matter more than review scores.

Many viewers describe leaving theaters with new perspectives on autism. The representation has particularly resonated with parents of special needs children. This real-world impact shows the film’s true value.

Word-of-mouth recommendations focus on the movie’s heart rather than its flaws. Audiences seem willing to forgive technical issues when the message resonates. This suggests success where it counts most.

Personal Verdict on This Journey

Tanvi the Great succeeds in ways that can’t be measured by traditional film standards. It opens doors for conversations about inclusion that Indian families need. Shubhangi Dutt deserves credit for bringing authenticity to this challenging role.

The movie works despite its flaws because it respects its subject matter. While Kher might not be the most polished director, his sincerity comes through clearly. Sometimes heart matters more than technical perfection.

I’d suggest this film for families ready to discuss differences and dreams. It may not win awards, but it might change minds. In today’s world, that achievement carries special weight.

Rating: 3/5