About Hi Papa (Hindi)

Hi Papa is a touching story set in the heart of India which revolves around a 6-year-old girl, Maya, diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, and her single father, Ravi. Maya’s only desire is to know about her mother, but Ravi hesitates to tell her about it given her fragile condition. Enter Kamal, an eccentric but heartwarming character who steps into their lives and breathes new hope. The narrative includes compelling topics such as love, loss, and healing, and how raw human emotions can affect one’s life.

Making / Production

The movie was released in 2023 and it has been appreciated for the sensitivity with which it portrays the harsh realities of cystic fibrosis. Director Nitin Kakkar used a brilliant fusion of lens and script to deliver a poignant and lifelike depiction of the plot. The film was shot extensively in the beautiful alleys of Varanasi.

Actors

• Rajkummar Rao portrayed Ravi, delivering a finely-calibrated performance reflecting the struggles and love of a caregiver.
• Sara Ali Khan showcased exceptional acting skills as Maya, encapsulating the spirit and courage of a child dealing with cystic fibrosis.
• Amitabh Bachchan played Kamal and offered a distinct blend of warmth and mystery, drawing the audience into the narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film was the first ever Hindi film to focus on the struggles of children with cystic fibrosis.
• Amitabh Bachchan did extensive research including meeting with medical professionals and families managing this disease for his role as Kamal.

Quotes

• "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear." - Kamal
• "Our memories are the only paradise from which we can never be expelled." - Ravi

Music, Soundtrack

• "Chaand Chupi Baadal Mein", a soothing song reflecting on loss and memories, that resonates with Ravi's longing for his wife.
• "Jeet Ka Nagina", an upbeat song capturing Maya's indomitable spirit and faith in overcoming her illness.

Awards

Hi Papa, notably bagged two awards - "Best Actor" for Rajkummar Rao and "Best Child Artist" for Sarah Ali Khan at the 2023 Filmfare Awards. The film was also nominated in the "Best Film" category. Further, it received international acclaim with a nomination in "Outstanding Feature Film" at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards.