Galwakdi review: An average romantic comedy about accepting people for who they are

The Punjabi feature Galwakdi, starring Tarsem Jassar and Wamiqa Gabbi, is a romantic comedy that presents us with unusual characters. Directed by Sharan Art, the story has been written by Randeep Chahal while the screenplay and dialogues are by Jagdeep Singh Warring. 

Jagteshwar Singh (Tarsem Jassar) runs a library in Birmingham. Nicknamed Jailor Saab by his family members, he is a stickler for cleanliness and order. Every little thing needs to be germ-free and spotless under his rule. He does everything by the clock and even manages the activities of his family, who submit themselves to his personality. His family is quite fed up and tries to find some breathing space behind his back.

Into this regimented home comes Amber (Wamiqa Gabbi). Rebellious, loud, carefree and impulsive, she is chided by her mother for being the mistress of her own will. Amber leaves her parents’ home on a whim, just to prove a point to her mother and by a quirk of fate, comes to live in Jagteshwar’s home. This is when things start to go topsy-turvy for him.

Jagteshwar and Amber are poles apart but through their interactions, they slowly realize that they both have to learn something from each other. Jagteshwar needs to lighten up and take time out to appreciate life, while Amber needs to grow up and stop acting like a petulant child in front of her parents. They hold a mirror up to each other’s shortcomings and help the other become a more rounded person. The film advocates finding a balance and accepting people for who they are. 

Jagteshwar’s character is different from his usual roles. His quirks and mannerisms are well thought out, down to his sartorial choices, and create an interesting persona. Jassar has acted well as the buttoned-up personality, while Gabbi is vivacious, bubbly and breathes life into her scenes. The supporting cast, especially BN Sharma and Raghveer Boli, provide the humour and keep the momentum going. Mandy Thakar too makes a small appearance in the film. 

However, despite having the right ingredients, the film falters in its writing. The first half takes quite long in setting up the personality traits of Jagteshwar and Amber, and becomes repetitive, while the second half has an unexpected twist that leaves you wondering about its relevance. 

The dance number ‘Tere Tor’, the fusion song with Sufi influences ‘Yaar Raazi hai’ and the romantic song ‘Tere Mere’ are all enjoyable.