Writer and Director: Vivek Anchalia
Cast: Amit Sial, Arisht Jain, Aarohi Saud, Divyansh Dwivedi, Nayan Bhatt
Platform: Jio Cinema
Duration: 118 Minutes
 
In a cinematic landscape swamped with superheroes, explosive action, and melodramatic spectacle, Tikdam emerges as a refreshing antidote—a gentle reminder of the power of simplicity and heartfelt storytelling. This charming film doesn’t just tell a story; it tugs at your heartstrings and invites you to reminisce about the simpler things in life.
 
Set in the picturesque hill town of Sukhtaal, Tikdam revolves around Prakash (Amit Sial), a widower working at a hotel chain that's seen better days. With the hotel closing down due to dwindling tourism and environmental concerns, Prakash is offered a new position in Mumbai. However, his children, Samay (Arisht Jain) and Cheeni (Aarohi Saud), are dismayed at the thought of leaving their beloved hometown and their father’s impending departure.
 
What follows is a heartfelt and amusing quest by the children, aided by their clever friend Bhanu (Divyansh Dwivedi), to keep their father from moving to the bustling city. Their schemes to keep Prakash home are both endearing and entertaining, adding a delightful layer to the film.
 
Tikdam explores themes of migration, ecological change, and the beauty of small-town life with a refreshing lack of pretension. The film manages to stay grounded even when addressing weighty issues like deforestation and pollution. Rather than veering into preachiness, the story maintains a realistic tone, capturing the genuine emotions of its characters. A standout moment is Prakash’s mother’s confrontation with his elder brother during Diwali, which beautifully encapsulates the film’s core message about family bonds and tradition.
 
The performances in Tikdam are the heart of its success. Amit Sial delivers a moving portrayal of Prakash, a man whose love for his children is palpable and deeply affecting. Nayan Bhatt adds zest to the film as the spirited grandmother, while Ajit Sarwottam Kelkar’s humorous grandfather provides much-needed comic relief. However, the real stars are the children: Arisht Jain, Aarohi Saud, and Divyansh Dwivedi. Their authentic performances and natural chemistry bring a genuine warmth to the film. Divyansh Dwivedi, in particular, shines with his mature and witty dialogue, making him a standout.
 
Director Vivek Anchalia deserves kudos for crafting a film that is as rare as it is poignant. Tikdam offers a soothing escape from the daily grind, wrapping its audience in a comforting embrace of nostalgia and simplicity. If you’re seeking a movie that resonates on an emotional level and celebrates the small joys of life, Tikdam is a must-watch.