Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Ankur Singla’s directorial debut “Ghich Pich” releases on August 8, 2025, and it’s exactly the kind of authentic Indian cinema we’ve been missing. This coming-of-age drama takes us straight into the heart of 1990s Chandigarh, where middle-class fathers and teenage sons navigate the tricky waters of tradition, rebellion, and growing up.
A Story That Feels Real
Set against the backdrop of 90s Chandigarh, “Ghich Pich” follows three teenage boys wrestling with their insecurities while their fathers try to understand their changing world. What makes this film special is how it captures the quiet emotional storms that teenagers carry, especially boys growing up under rigid parenting systems.
The story doesn’t try to be overly dramatic or preachy. Instead, it shows real moments – the awkward conversations, the unspoken expectations, and those small rebellions that define the relationship between Indian fathers and sons.
Outstanding Performances
Nitesh Pandey delivers what would tragically become his final screen performance, and it’s absolutely beautiful. He brings such depth to his role as a father trying to connect with his son while staying true to his values. You can feel the love and frustration in every scene.
Shhivam Kakar, known for “Flames” and “Indoo Ki Jawani,” leads the young cast with remarkable maturity. Kabir Nanda and Aryan Rana complete the trio of teenagers, each bringing their own struggles and personalities to life. Satyajit Sharma and Geeta Agrawal Sharma provide strong support, making every family dynamic feel genuine.
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Technical Excellence
Ankur Singla, who sold his startup to Amazon before making this film, spent five years crafting this story, and it shows. The cinematography perfectly captures 90s Chandigarh – the dusty streets, crowded markets, and middle-class homes that feel like our own memories.
The soundtrack blends traditional and modern Indian music naturally, never feeling forced or out of place. The film builds towards a grand wedding scene that celebrates both tradition and change, showing how everyone has grown from their initial state.
What Makes It Special
“Ghich Pich” succeeds because it doesn’t judge anyone. The fathers aren’t portrayed as villains, and the sons aren’t shown as completely right either. It’s about understanding, compromise, and the slow process of families learning to communicate better.
The film already has an impressive 9.7 rating on IMDb, which speaks to how well it connects with audiences who see their own families reflected on screen.
Minor Concerns
At times, the pacing feels a bit slow for viewers used to fast-paced cinema. Some storylines could have been developed slightly more, though the main father-son relationships are handled beautifully throughout.
Final Thoughts
“Ghich Pich” is the kind of indie film that reminds us why personal, authentic stories matter more than big budgets and star power. Ankur Singla has created something genuinely moving that will stay with you long after the credits roll. This is essential viewing for anyone who’s ever been a teenager or tried to raise one in India.