Carry On, Munna Bhai (2006)

Carry On, Munna Bhai (Munnabhai 2nd Innings) is a warm, uproarious and unexpectedly moving comedy-drama about a lovable Bombay underworld goon who learns to fight wrongs with laughter and the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. Munna Bhai — a streetwise, big-hearted don — falls for the voice of a radio jockey, Jhanvi, and pretends to be a history professor to get close to her. When Jhanvi’s elderly boarding house, “2nd Innings,” is seized by a greedy builder, Munna resolves to win back the home the only way he knows how: with heart, humor and a little theatrical bluffing. What turns the film from a standard rom-com into something memorable is Munna’s unlikely friendship with the living memory of Gandhi — or at least a vision of him only Munna can see. Gandhi appears as a witty, firm conscience who nudges Munna toward non-violence, truth and creative satyagraha. The result is a series of comic set pieces, clever radio and courtroom moments, and a heartfelt campaign of peaceful resistance that satirizes corruption while never losing its human warmth. Viewers can expect broad laughs (from Munna and his devoted sidekick Circuit), tender romantic beats, and several genuinely moving scenes involving the elderly residents of 2nd Innings. The film balances slapstick and verbal comedy with social commentary, delivering an accessible moral message without ever feeling preachy. It’s energetic and feel-good, with moments that are funny, inspiring and quietly poignant. If you watch this film you’ll leave laughing, moved, and pleasantly surprised — entertained by the silly antics and won over by a charming, optimistic story about how ordinary people (and a reformed goon) can change hearts through kindness, courage and a bit of Gandhian wisdom.

Actors: Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Vidya Balan

Director: Rajkumar Hirani

Runtime: 144 min

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

8.0 /10 8.0 /10