Hi Nanna: A Heartwarming Tale of Love, Loss, and Redemption

The Telugu film industry, affectionately known as Tollywood, has long been a treasure trove of cinematic gems that blend compelling narratives with cultural richness. Among these, the 2023 romantic drama “Hi Nanna” (transl. Hi Dad) stands out as a poignant and beautifully crafted film that has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike.

Directed by the debutant Shouryuv, “Hi Nanna” is an intricate tapestry of emotions, exploring themes of familial bonds, love, loss, and the journey to redemption. The film, which stars Nani and Mrunal Thakur and introduces the young talent Kiara Khanna, has become a notable success, critically and at the box office, grossing over ₹75 crores worldwide.

The Storyline – A Heart-Tugging Narrative

“Hi Nanna” revolves around Viraj (Nani), a renowned fashion photographer in Mumbai, and his six-year-old daughter Mahi (Kiara Khanna), who suffers from cystic fibrosis. The film delves into the complexities of their relationship, especially as Mahi becomes curious about her mother, Varsha. The narrative weaves through the past and present, unraveling the layers of Viraj and Varsha’s love story, their struggles with Mahi’s illness, and the eventual heartbreak that tears their world apart.

A turning point in the film occurs when Mahi goes missing but is fortunately saved by Yashna (Mrunal Thakur). The bond between Mahi and Yashna grows, leading to significant emotional revelations and the eventual realization that Yashna is, in fact, Varsha, who had lost her memories in a tragic accident.

The film masterfully portrays the characters’ internal conflicts, particularly Viraj’s dilemma of reconciling with his past and protecting his daughter and Varsha from further pain. This journey is further complicated by introducing Dr. Aravind Bhatia (Angad Bedi), Yashna’s fiancé, who plays a crucial role in the film’s climax.

Cast Performances – The Soul of the Film

As Viraj, Nani delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, successfully capturing the essence of a father’s unconditional love and the torment of a lover’s loss. Mrunal Thakur, as Yashna/Varsha, is equally compelling, adding depth and emotion to the narrative. Young Kiara Khanna, as Mahi, is a revelation, bringing an innocent charm and emotional maturity to her role.

The supporting cast, including Priyadarshi Pulikonda, Angad Bedi, and Nassar, add significant value to the film, each contributing to the story’s emotional depth.

Technical Brilliance and Musical Score

Shouryuv’s direction is noteworthy, particularly for a debutant. He keeps the narrative engaging and emotionally resonant throughout the film’s 155-minute runtime. The screenplay, co-written by Shouryuv, Bhanu Dheeraj Rayudu, and Vasanth Sameer Pinnamaraju, is tight and well-paced, avoiding unnecessary melodrama.

Sanu Varghese’s cinematography deserves special mention for beautifully capturing the varied landscapes, from the bustling city of Mumbai to the serene hills of Coonoor. Praveen Anthony’s editing ensures the film’s complex narrative remains coherent and gripping.

The music, composed by Hesham Abdul Wahab, is soulful and innovative, particularly with artificial intelligence in re-recording the film’s background score, a first for an Indian film. The soundtrack, a mix of emotional and peppy numbers, has been well-received, adding to the film’s appeal.

Box Office Success and Critical Acclaim

“Hi Nanna” was released on 7 December 2023 and quickly garnered positive reviews for its storytelling, performances, and technical execution. The film’s success at the box office, with a gross collection of over ₹75 crores, is a testament to its universal appeal. The film’s emotional depth and technical finesse stand out in contemporary Telugu cinema.

Conclusion

“Hi Nanna” is more than just a film; it is an emotional experience that stays with the viewer long after the credits roll. It is a love story in its many forms – paternal, romantic, and selfless. This film marks a significant achievement for director Shouryuv and cements Nani and Mrunal Thakur’s status as exceptional actors in Indian cinema. “Hi Nanna” is a cinematic journey that is heart-wrenching, uplifting, and profoundly human, making it a must-watch for anyone who cherishes good storytelling.

FAQs about Hi Nanna

What is ‘Hi Nanna’ about? 

‘Hi Nanna’ is a Telugu-language romantic drama film that centers around a doting father and his six-year-old daughter, whose lives change when a woman befriends them, intertwining with their past.

Who directed ‘Hi Nanna’? 

Shouryuv directed the film in his directorial debut.

Who are the prominent cast members of ‘Hi Nanna’? 

The main cast includes Nani, Mrunal Thakur, Baby Kiara Khanna, and Angad Bedi.

What genres does ‘Hi Nanna’ fall under? 

The film is categorized under the Drama, Family, and Romance genres.

Where can I watch ‘Hi Nanna’? 

‘Hi Nanna’ is available for streaming on Netflix.

What is the IMDb rating of ‘Hi Nanna’? 

The film has an IMDb rating of 8.4.

When was ‘Hi Nanna’ released? 

It was released in theaters on 7 December 2023 and on OTT platforms on 4 January 2024.

What is the runtime of ‘Hi Nanna’? 

The film has a runtime of 155 minutes.

What is the box office collection of ‘Hi Nanna’? 

‘Hi Nanna’ was a box office success, grossing over ₹75 crores worldwide.

Does ‘Hi Nanna’ feature any songs? 

Yes, the film features a soundtrack composed by Hesham Abdul Wahab, including popular tracks like “Samayama” and “Gaaju Bomma.”