Name: Bhool Chuk Maaf
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama
Released: 2025-05-23
Rating: 6.3
Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Seema Pahwa, Zakir Hussain, Raghubir Yadav

"Bhool Chuk Maaf" is a quirky romantic drama set in a small town, revolving around a couple caught in an unusual circumstance. The story follows Ranjan, played by Rajkummar Rao, whose life gets stuck on a particular day, and his love interest Titli, played by Wamiqa Gabbi. The film's trailer showcases a mix of comedy, romance, and suspense, with Rajkummar Rao's signature comedic style and a time-loop twist that keeps audiences engaged

Bhool Chuk Maaf

Times of India

News18

Taran Adarsh

Pinkvilla

Bhool Chuk Maaf’s release drama strangely and accidentally paid ode to its theme. From a theatrical release to OTT and back to theatrical release, it kept going in circles too. The film’s story tests your patience equally, but the outcome compensates for the scattered and meandering build-up.

Oblivious to the demands of adulting, Banaras sweethearts Ranjan (Rajkummar Rao) and Titli (Wamiqa Gabbi) are obsessed with each other. He doesn’t have a job, and she is too reckless to care. They decide to elope but abort the plan midway because she realises it’s unfair for their parents to face the repercussions. They want to be together but not at the cost of their families’ wellbeing.

Otherwise irresponsible, Ranjan promises he will find a government job in two months. This is her father’s only condition. Having no care in the world, the couple resorts to ‘jugaad’ and succeeds until Ranjan finds himself tangled in a time loop which forbids him to proceed to his wedding day.

Rajkummar Rao has done a couple of films with similar small town settings of late. Bhool Chuk Maaf has a few elements that are strikingly different and then those that follow a template. Some nuances in writing stand out. The family dynamics and eccentric characters may have that Bareilly Ki Barfi-north Indian vibe, but it also has its own personality. Ranjan’s relationship with money for instance, is a direct impact of his father’s (Raghubir Yadav) total financial reliance on his wife Seema Pahwa. She is the sole breadwinner of the house through her pickle business and her husband doesn’t find it odd. Likewise, Ranjan happily spends Titli’s money, which she borrows from her parents and doesn’t aspire to be self-sufficient until he is forced to.

The first half takes a bit too long to get to the point with innumerable songs added for no rhyme or reason. Humour is largely clean and safe if you excuse the occasional ‘tatti jokes’. It’s the second half that changes the game. It is here that the film addresses growing apathy, isolated existence and self-centric living. What are the consequences of our jugaad on the society at large and when did we stop caring? The social commentary through humour isn’t predictable and is well established. You just wish it didn’t take an hour to get there.

Acting heavyweights Seema Pahwa, Raghubir Yadav, Sanjay Mishra and Zakir Hussain are best at what they do, and their presence lends authenticity and meaning to the setting. Wamiqa Gabbi portrays her ditzy but daring character well. Given how fine a talent he is, Rajkummar Rao deserves characters that force him to push his boundaries. Bhool Chuk Maaf isn’t groundbreaking for him that way. He still ensures he essays Ranjan with all his flaws and heart.

BCM delivers a relevant message in a deceptive manner. The time loop can feel like you are witnessing a number of behind-the-scenes fun retakes. If you are up for it, you can give this one a watch.

When was the last time you watched a Rajkummar Rao movie and returned disappointed? Clearly, the actor has found his charm in playing the small-town hero that is so relatable to all of us that we fall in love with every character he brings to life with the kind of mannerisms he adds to his roles. Just like his previous films, Rao takes us on a joy ride in Karan Sharma’s Bhool Chuk Maaf.

We get to see a fresh pairing of Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, and the duo are sure to become a very popular rom-com pair. Set in Banaras, the movie revolves around Rajkummar Rao’s character, Ranjan Tiwari, who is caught in a time loop, repeatedly waking up on the day of his Haldi ceremony.
The initial build-up features well-crafted dialogues, humour, and convincing performances by Rao and Gabbi (who plays Titli). Rao’s impeccable delivery of one-liners, with the perfect accent and timing, is particularly entertaining. Debutant director Karan Sharma dedicates most of the first half to establishing the loop, though the script could have benefited from more depth there. Having said that, the songs enhance the beauty of the film’s setting and the picturisation of Banaras is something that will break the stereotype associated with the place.
The concept is fairly new for Bollywood, with straightforward storytelling, though certain characters could use more arch and layers that could have unfolded over the course of the film. Nonetheless, Karan Sharma deserves credit for his debut effort and we can say, “Karan, Bhool Chuk Maaf".

While Rao excels in these roles, it’s also time to see him in a new light and a fresh avatar. His portrayal of small-town heroes is commendable, but his talent extends beyond this niche. And we can’t wait to see him in other projects. Gabbi, on the other hand, fits naturally into the role of Titli, delivering her lines with precision and showcasing excellent comic timing. It’s likely she’ll continue to shine in rom-coms in the future.

As the movie progresses to the second half, the script reveals a major plot twist, but the storytelling falls short of capturing the full emotional depth of it. What could have made the narrative more impactful falls flat and looks rushed.

The climax delivers the film’s core message, with Sanjay Mishra leaving a lasting impression through his performance, supported by strong scripting and dialogues. Overall, Bhool Chuk Maaf is a decent film for those looking to relax and unwind at the movies.


A feel-good tale with entertaining moments and some good humour... Loses grip post-interval, but the solid finale redeems it... Good watch! #BhoolChukMaafReview

Director #KaranSharma crafts a smart rom-com built around an engaging premise... The screenplay remains tight for the most part, complemented by dialogues that blend wit with wisdom.

However, the narrative begins to lose momentum in the second half, becoming somewhat repetitive... Even the music – traditionally a strength of #MaddockFilms – falls short this time, with the exception of the catchy #ChorBazaari.

#RajkummarRao shines once again, delivering a winsome performance. His ability to convey vulnerability, charm, and conviction makes his character thoroughly endearing.

#WamiqaGabbi is effortless and expressive, lighting up the screen every time she appears.

The supporting cast – especially the families and friends – adds value and lends authenticity to the world the film is set in.

Final word? Watch it!


Bhool Chuk Maaf's greatest strength lies in its simplicity and its small-town charm. It captures the quirks of the everyday life of a middle class family of Banaras, breezily, making it relatable for those who enjoy grounded, heartwarming stories. The dialogues are a standout, packed with witty one-liners and situational humor that evoke genuine laughs. The comedic chemistry between the characters, particularly in scenes involving Ranjan reliving the pre-wedding day, adds to the film’s enjoyment factor. The music is another highlight, with songs like Sawariya Tera, Koi Naa, and Chor Bazaari Phir Se sounding good to the ears.
The film’s easygoing tone ensures it remains an undemanding watch, perfect for viewers seeking a break from heavy dramas. Additionally, the supporting cast, consisting of Raghubir Yadav, Sanjay Mishra and Seema Pahwa, injects infectious energy to the simple story. The climax portion hits the heart and it doesn't ever feel preachy or forced.
Rajkummar Rao delivers a natural and effortless performance as Ranjan. He is very lovable in the film. Wamiqa Gabbi looks pretty and she lights up the screen whenever she appears. However, she occasionally overplays her part. The show-stealers of the film are Raghubir Yadav and Seema Pahwa as Ranjan's parents. They elevate the film with their excellent comic timing. Among other supporting actors, Jay Thakkar delivers good slapstick punches. Sanjay Mishra as 'Bhagwan' is fun as usual. He is instrumental in making sure the climax lands well. Other supporting actors do well in their respective roles.
Bhool Chuk Maaf is a charming addition to the small-town rom-com genre. Witty dialogues and stellar supporting performances make it an enjoyable watch for those who appreciate simple, feel-good stories. The underutilized time-loop concept and sluggish pacing hold it back from reaching its full potential. Overall, it Bhool Chuk Maaf is a simple film that can be watched with your families.

Rajkummar Rao is a critically acclaimed, award-winning actor who primarily works in Hindi cinema. A graduate of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India in Pune, Rao has won several awards for his performances including the Filmfare and the National Award. His first break came with the 2010 film Love, Sex aur Dhokha. From then on, he has continuously explored all possible shades in characters and genres. He has worked in horror films (Ragini MMS), crime dramas (Gangs of Wasseypur 2), buddy dramas (Kai Po Che), biopics (Shahid, Bose: Dead or Alive and Omerta), comedies (Queen and Newton) and realistic dramas (Citylights).

Rajkummar Rao

Wamiqa Gabbi is an actress who primarily works in South Indian Cinema. He made his screen debut with the Hindi film Bittoo Boss in 2012. She has also appeared in Punjabi language movies like Tu Mera 22 Mai Tera 22 and Ishq Brandy. Some of her best known films also include Maalai Nerathu Mayakkam, Bhale Manchi Roju, Parahuna and Godha. Gabbi is also a professional Kathak dancer.

Wamiqa Gabbi

Seema Pahwa

Zakir Hussain

Raghubir Yadav is an Indian film, stage and television actor, music composer, singer and set designer who works predominantly in Hindi cinema. He made his film debut with Pradeep Krishen`s Massey Sahib (1985), in which Yadav played the title role.

Raghubir Yadav

Vineet Kumar is an Indian actor. The veteran actor from National School of Drama, is known for his works in Hindi, Telugu, and English language films and Television. He is best known for his works in films such as Masaan, Drohkaal, Kachche Dhaage, Aks, Yeh Dil, Soch and Shool. 

Vineet Kumar

Sanjay Mishra is a well-known television and film artist. An alumnus of the National School of Drama, Sanjay made his debut with Oh Darling! Yeh Hai India! (1995). He is best known for movies like Satya (1998), Saathiya (2002), Golmaal Returns (2008), Phas Gaye Re Obama (2010), Jolly LLB (2013), Bhootnath Returns (2014), Kick (2014), Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015), Ankhon Dekhi (2014) and Golmaal Again (2017).

Bhool Chuk Maaf(2025)