Roohi: Exploring the Tradition of Bride Kidnapping
Roohi, a 2021 Indian horror comedy film, delves into the unique tradition of bride kidnapping in the village of Bagadpur. Directed by Hardik Mehta, the movie takes viewers on a thrilling journey that combines elements of horror, comedy, and romance.
The story revolves around two men, Bhawra and Kattani, who guide a reporter through the intriguing life in Bagadpur and the accepted yet illegal practice of bride kidnapping. The villagers believe in this tradition, considering it an essential part of their culture.
As Bhawra and Kattani carry out their duties, they face an unexpected challenge when the original bride goes missing. Left with no choice, they select Roohi as a replacement bride. Little do they know that Roohi is possessed by a powerful witch named Mudiya Pairi.
In a twist of fate, Bhawra starts developing feelings for Roohi. However, Kattani falls in love with Afza, the witch who possesses Roohi’s body. This sets the stage for a love triangle filled with supernatural elements and conflicts of the heart.
Determined to free Roohi from Mudiya Pairi’s control, Bhawra seeks the help of an old woman named Budhiya. Together, they devise a plan to trick the groom into marrying someone else. Their hope is to force the witch to leave Roohi’s body and grant her freedom.
As the plan unfolds, it almost succeeds in its objective. However, Afza interferes at the last moment, trying to prevent the wedding between Kattani and Roohi. This unexpected turn of events further complicates the already tangled web of relationships.
In a surprising twist, Roohi decides to reject the marriage proposal from Bhawra and chooses to commit herself to Afza instead. This decision not only shocks Bhawra but also leaves Kattani heartbroken.
Roohi’s departure from Bhawra and Kattani sets the stage for a new adventure as she embarks on a journey with Afza. The film leaves viewers wondering about the fate of the characters and the untold stories that await them.
Despite the intriguing premise, Roohi received mixed reviews from audiences and critics. With a rating of 4.3 on IMDb and a mere 10% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film failed to live up to the expectations set by its predecessor, Stree.
Starring Rajkumar Rao, Varun Sharma, and Janhvi Kapoor, Roohi had the potential to be a successful addition to Dinesh Vijan’s Horror-Comedy Universe. However, it fell short due to its lack of coherence and inclusion of unnecessary elements.
In conclusion, Roohi explores the ancient tradition of bride kidnapping in India, infusing it with elements of horror and comedy. While the premise holds promise, the execution and delivery fell flat. Nevertheless, the film offers an interesting perspective on cultural practices and the supernatural, making it worth a watch for fans of the genre.
