Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Movie Review: David Dhawan’s Potential Final Bow Brings Breezy Nostalgia to Screens

As the veteran filmmaker likely steps away from the director's chair, the Varun Dhawan-starrer arrives with a mix of familiar slapstick and modern rom-com sensibilities.

The latest project from the Dhawan household, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, has officially arrived in theatres today, marking a significant milestone for both the lead star and his father, director David Dhawan. With the film hitting the big screen, early audience reactions and industry buzz suggest a high-energy experience that leans heavily into the classic, front-footed brand of humour that has defined the director’s illustrious career. For Varun Dhawan, this release serves as his primary outing as a lead actor in 2026, following his notable appearance in the massive pan-India success of Border 2 earlier this year.

An Emotional Farewell to a Cinematic Institution

The atmosphere surrounding this release is deeply sentimental, as David Dhawan has indicated this project may be his final directorial venture. The filmmaker shared his perspective in recent interviews, noting that he is prioritising his health and family life, and is content to transition into his role as a supportive father. Filmmaker Karan Johar echoed this sentiment on social media, describing the veteran director as an institution who essentially created a specific genre of Indian cinema. In a heartfelt note, Johar celebrated the director’s legacy, describing a David Dhawan film as synonymous with pure entertainment.

Plot and Performance

The narrative of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai revolves around Jas, played by Varun, whose life descends into a chaotic spiral after discovering that both his estranged wife and his current partner are pregnant with his child simultaneously. Alongside Varun, the film features performances from Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur, supported by a cast including Manish Paul, Jimmy Shergill, and Chunky Pandey. Critics have highlighted the fresh chemistry between the leads, though responses to the film’s structure have been varied. While some viewers have praised the film's energetic pace and the inclusion of the track "Chunri Chunri," others have noted that the narrative follows a predictable path, particularly in the climax.

Decoding the Humour

Leading up to the release, Varun Dhawan was candid about the film’s unapologetic approach to comedy. Acknowledging that the script incorporates various forms of humour—including double-meaning jokes—the actor noted that the film is designed to be a "frontfoot" entertainer. While early reviews suggest the movie hits the mark for those looking for a lighthearted, breezy watch, it has also sparked debate regarding its reliance on traditional slapstick tropes. Whether the audience embraces this throwback style or finds the pacing uneven, the film remains a major talking point at cinema halls across the country this week.

A Wide Release

The film has secured a significant footprint across major theatre chains, including PVR INOX and various Cinepolis locations, with multiple showtimes available throughout the day. From morning screenings to late-night slots, exhibitors are banking on the star power of the Dhawan duo to draw audiences back to the multiplexes. As the first reports circulate, the industry is watching closely to see if this potential swan song for the legendary director can sustain its momentum at the box office.