‘Do Patti’: A Diwali Reminder of Resilience, Abuse, and the Strength of Women
Diwali is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, where households welcome Goddess Lakshmi, invoking prosperity and abundance. Yet behind the festive lights, many women endure silent suffering, trapped in abusive relationships and cycles of systemic neglect. Watching “Do Patti,” I was reminded of this harsh reality. Witnessing Saumya and her mother’s pain — their bruised faces, burnt forearms, and twisted, broken fingers — raises difficult questions. When will this violence end? Why don’t perpetrators understand that honoring the women in their lives invites the blessings of Lakshmi and true harmony into their homes?
A Twin Thriller with Layers of Deception and Drama
“Do Patti” is a gripping entry in Bollywood’s tradition of twin narratives, drawing inspiration from iconic films like “Seeta Aur Geeta” with Hema Malini and “Ram Aur Shyam,” starring the legendary Dilip Kumar, yet it diverges into darker, more introspective territory. Directed by Shashank Chaturvedi and written by Kanika Dhillon, this 2024 romantic thriller intricately weaves suspense, loyalty, and the ugly reality of domestic abuse into its storyline. Kriti Sanon stars as both Saumya and Shailee, twin sisters with a troubled childhood that has simmered into a turbulent bond, while Shaheer Sheikh plays Dhruv, a man who complicates and ultimately disrupts their lives.
Kriti Sanon: Twin Roles with a Dark Twist
In her dual role, Kriti Sanon brings life to the vulnerable, introverted, and quietly resilient Saumya and the extroverted, envious, and headstrong Shailee. Her performance recalls the twin-sister dynamics of “Seeta Aur Geeta,” but with a contemporary, gritty edge. Sanon captures Saumya’s silent endurance in an abusive marriage, contrasting it with Shailee’s fierce, impulsive nature. This duality enhances the film’s tension, as the sisters navigate their complex relationship with Dhruv, whose own manipulative behavior adds an even darker layer to the story. Sanon’s role redefines the classic Bollywood twin trope, grounding it in an emotional intensity that resonates deeply.
Kajol: A Commanding Force as Inspector VJ
It was refreshing to see Kajol in a new role as Inspector Vidya “VJ” Jyothi. Her portrayal of the officer navigating her own “dilemmas and existence in a male-dominated society” while uncovering the twisted dynamics between Saumya, Shailee, and Dhruv is among the film’s highlights. Her character is more than just a law enforcer; she is a moral compass, symbolizing the empathy and strength often missing in real-life responses to domestic violence. Kajol’s performance, with its nuanced portrayal of compassion and determination, elevates the character from a mere investigator to a fierce advocate for women’s justice. Through VJ, “Do Patti” offers a necessary critique on the social attitudes surrounding abuse, showing how silence can harm entire families.
Shaheer Sheikh: A Convincing Antagonist
Shaheer Sheikh delivers a solid performance as Dhruv, the charismatic but deeply flawed antagonist. He plays the role with layers, initially appearing as a misunderstood husband but gradually revealing his manipulative, abusive nature. Sheikh’s portrayal adds emotional depth to the story, reminding viewers of the real dangers posed by individuals who exploit power imbalances in relationships. His role complements the sisters’ complicated relationship, lending additional tension to the unfolding mystery.
Verdict
“Do Patti” succeeds as both a psychological thriller and a social commentary on domestic violence. By reimagining Bollywood’s twin-role genre with contemporary, darker themes, Dhillon’s sharp writing and Chaturvedi’s direction elevate this beyond standard drama, transforming it into a powerful story about trauma, resilience, and justice. While Sanon and Kajol shine with powerhouse performances, Sheikh adds just the right amount of charm and menace, making for a well-rounded cast.
Ultimately, “Do Patti” serves as a metaphor for the “card game” commonly played during the festival season, illustrating the high-stakes nature of relationships marred by silence and abuse. This film is not just about twins or suspense; it’s about breaking the silence surrounding domestic abuse, showing the strength women find to protect each other and themselves. The film leaves audiences introspective about abuse and justice, urging viewers to consider how honoring women—the true goddesses in our lives — can transform homes and hearts alike.
Now streaming on Netflix, “Do Patti” comes with a parental advisory, as it contains sensitive themes that may not be suitable for impressionable children.
With one foot in Huntsville, Alabama, the other in her birth home India, and a heart steeped in humanity, writing is a contemplative practice for Monita Soni. She has published hundreds of poems, movie reviews, book critiques, and essays and contributed to combined literary works. Her two books are My Light Reflections and Flow through My Heart. You can hear her commentaries on Sundial Writers Corner WLRH 89.3FM.