Delve into the empowering tale of four extraordinary women who unleash their boundless spirits on roaring motorcycles. Discover the exhilaration of freedom and self-discovery in this empowering road movie.

“To influence people, aesthetics are not important, but a good story is!” One such story is “Dhak Dhak”, which tells the story of four women from different backgrounds who go on a trek together to the tip of Khardung La, near Leh, on ‘their’ respective bicycles. Yes, you read correctly! The story is about women who ride bicycles, living life on their own terms! Honestly, just thinking about it is enough to make your heart go “Dhak Dhak”. Let’s find out how the movie plays out!

Meet ‘Sky’ [played by Fatima Sana Shaikh], a YouTuber who excels at her job but is reeling from cyberbullying and a broken relationship. She yearns to create her own identity and free herself from the shackles of embarrassment and shame. She is betting on the Barcelona Expo that she will assemble an army of three more women to tell a story that can inspire and move people. She meets ‘Mahi’ [played by Ratna Pathak Shah], in her sixties, without attention and love. With them are ‘Umza’ [Dia Mirza], who has been subdued by her patriarchal husband, and ‘Manjari’ [Sanjana Sanghi], who is still in her cocoon after being raised by a single mother.

 

Unleashing Boundless Freedom on Two Wheels

In the empowering world of ‘Dhak Dhak’, director Tarun Dudeja weaves an exhilarating tale of four extraordinary women who leave their comfort zones to embark on a thrilling adventure astride their roaring motorcycles. This road movie, scripted by Dudeja with Parijat Joshi, not only showcases the indomitable spirit of these fierce women but also delves into the depths of their personal journeys. Despite a few hiccups along the way, Dhak Dhak succeeds in capturing the essence of freedom and self-discovery.

 

Riding Beyond Limits: The Quest for Uncharted Avenues

Each of the women in ‘Dhak Dhak’ has compelling reasons to break free from their mundane lives and explore uncharted territories. They yearn for more than what society has deemed acceptable for them. Propelled by relentless determination, these women defy societal norms and find solace in the wide-open roads that lie ahead.

 

The Biker Women and Their Untold Stories

The film aims to emulate the synchronized heartbeats of both the women riders and their powerful machines. The film masterfully intertwines the backstories of the central characters, giving viewers a glimpse into their motivations and aspirations.

‘Sky’ (Fatima Sana Shaikh) – As a YouTuber and social media influencer, ‘Sky’ is no stranger to the fast-paced world of motorcycles, gadgets, and travel. Battling the aftermath of a scandal and a messy breakup, she sets her sights on the Barcelona auto expo as a means to find solace and clarity amidst the chaos.

‘Mahi’ (Ratna Pathak Shah) – ‘Mahi’, a seasoned rider, who is dubbed as the “Bullet-riding granny,” sees an opportunity in Sky to fulfill her lifelong dream of conquering the challenging Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Her age does not dampen her indomitable spirit, and she becomes an invaluable mentor to ‘Sky’.

‘Uzma’ (Dia Mirza) – ‘Uzma’, an automobile mechanic, faces constant discouragement from her husband when it comes to pursuing her own aspirations. However, when the chance to embrace her passion for riding arises, she takes a leap of faith to break free from the shackles of societal expectations.

‘Manjari’ (Sanjana Sanghi) – Pressured by her single mother and relatives to conform to an arranged marriage with a stranger, ‘Manjari’ yearns for a different path. When presented with the opportunity to join the biker group, she seizes it as a chance to reclaim her autonomy and find her own version of happiness.

 

A Journey with Hiccups: Pace and Flaws

While ‘Dhak Dhak’ captivates audiences with its empowering narrative, it falls short in terms of pacing. The film’s first half maintains a strong momentum, immersing viewers in the captivating lives of the women and their motorcycles. However, the post-interval segment meanders at times and lacks the consistent pacing of its first part.

The Power of Stellar Performances

Despite the pacing issues, the film draws its strength from the talented ensemble cast. Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, and Sanjana Sanghi deliver stunning performances that breathe life into their respective characters. Their chemistry and dedication to their roles inject the film with vitality and authenticity.

A Tribute to the Indomitable Spirit

Though ‘Dhak Dhak’ may have stumbled in certain places along its journey, its heart remains true to its message – the pursuit of freedom and self-discovery. Through the eyes and experiences of four remarkable women, the film encourages viewers to embrace their dreams and break free from societal constraints. Thus, despite a few detours, ‘Dhak Dhak’ serves as a reminder that the roar of an engine can symbolize much more than defiance; it can represent the unyielding spirit of those who refuse to be confined.