User reviews

Daawat-e-Ishq- 2014 Director: Habib Faisal There is nothing new in this story, many people even can predict the movie, But still it's worth watching. Acting of Parineeti and Aditya's is superb. Small small elements and dialogs are very nice. Anupam Kher is a wonderful actor and he proves his mettle once again. He gets into the skin of character and supports the proceedings of movie with grace. Music is just amazing. Dawat-E-Ishq has a fresh and exotic aroma to appetite you.

There will be many people who didn't like the film but I think you can watch this film with your family because the content is very clean and beautiful. Deliciously Amazing

The way to a woman's heart is also through her stomach - this twisty idea is enlivened by director Habib Faisal in his collaboration with Yash Raj banner flick, Daawat-E-Ishq which provides a spicy and eclectic romantic affair blending the cuisine culture of Hyderabad and Lucknow. Faisal is known for his penchant to craft authentic middle-class milieu with his rooted characters under the context of relevant social topics,and this time he examines the stigma of dowry practices which has maligned the institution of marriage, but in a lighter vein.

Disillusioned with love and tired of matrimonial encounters with over-demanding prospective bridegrooms, Gulrez aka Gullu (Parineeti Chopra),an shoe-sales girl, hatches a con-plan to avenge her humiliations by duping them into fake marriage and imposing charges under section 498A of anti-dowry act. In that way, she can also get hefty sum of money to fulfill her long-nurtured 'American' dreams. She cajoles her resistant father, Bujji(Anupam Kher) an ordinary high court clerk who succumbs to her emotional blackmail. This leads them to Lucknow, where they stumble upon one of their 'bakras',Tariq Hyderi aka Taru(Aditya Roy Kapur) who happens to be an extraordinary cook. Taru is bowled by the feisty girl's charms ,and while Gullu gets gradually swooned by the aroma emanating from the Biryanis and Kababs of Taru's kitchen, their plan is thrashed sweetly by the blossoming love.

It's a richly textured premise which offers us an irresistible array of starters , a somewhat delicious main course but the dessert spread turns out to be rather bland.Cutting through the colorful nuances of the city of Nizams, Hyderabad, the narrative also presents a warmth-filled camaraderie between the father and her daughter. The film's latter half dwells in the revelry of Lucknow and its rich culinary traditions which forms a canvas for the romance between its protagonists. The Blemishes - it suffers from logic issues. The climax looks hurried and doesn't convince us about Taru's sudden change of heart for Gullu.

These lacunae are however washed off by the spirited performances of the film's central characters. Parineeti Chopra imbues Gullu with full radiance, sparkles and confidence. Its a comfort zone for her to be in her 'feisty' self, but the actress takes an extra leap to get her Hyderabadi diction impeccably right, a trait that was grossly goofed-up by the ace star Vidhya Balan in Bobby Jasoos. Anupam Kher's comical nervousness reminds us of his superbly staged act in Special 26, and he shines in all sequences requiring emotional gravitas. And most importantly, Aditya Roy Kapur makes a revelation, playing the revered restaurateur with a cocky delight.

Dawat-E-Ishq has a fresh and exotic aroma to appetize you, but that doesn't last too long to tingle your taste buds.

A very pleasant, easy-going family entertainer with Desi flavor of Hyderabad and Lucknow! Very importantly, anti-dowry message has been delivered in such a jolly manner in this film. Good direction. Anupam Kher as usual is very convincing as an honest single-father who is willing to sacrifice his entire life-savings for his beloved daughter's marriage, brilliant comic timing. Parineeti somehow fails to convince that she is a a topper / BCom final yr grad student, but otherwise a good - original - performance by her, she is creating her fan following for sure. Aditya Roy Kapoor is maturing as an actor with every film, good to see him play a Desi role. Okay-ish music and background score.

The irony of Bollywood is - Had it been a bigger star in this movie, it would have been a bigger hit at the box office. Apparently Aditya is a very underrated actor. His chilled out attitude was perfect for this role. Wish audience accepted him more as a solo hero. Parineeti is fine.

At one point in the film Gulrez tells the garishly flamboyant Tariq 'You are a high school drop out, your English is pathetic, you wear tacky shirts , chew paan and burp!'!!, well but that's not evident in the film though! And that's what was probably essential in Tariq's character that could have worked out more so if he was made more vacuous rather than the 'laugh a loud, good at heart lucknovi chap. Their hasn't been enough timing for the romance to develop between the lead players hence you don't feel bad for Tariq when he is betrayed by Gulrez Having said that, Aditya Roy Kapoor is likable & attractive,no longer camera conscious or droopy (like his previous projects), he shines as the robust kohl-eyed Tariq. Parineeti Chopra with her spontaneity & vivaciousness evident from her very first film is sadly restricted here within this regular glamor doll image with huge dollops of make-up, pan cake and flashy attire,not at ease ,at times, misfit to her character Gulrez! Save for that Hyderabadi accent slipping and falling back into place every now, the dynamics of Parineeti's role isn't all that we haven't seen before, but nevertheless, she is always a delight to watch! It's a light hearted film focusing on the menace aka dowry, the misuse of section 498A & a father-daughter duo's plan to con a rich guy who demands a hefty dowry forms the basic premise of the film. The actors should have undergone some strict workshop sessions to get their hyderabadi & lucknowi accent correct, or maybe a few lessons from Shabana Azmi's Mandi ! The father and daughter's big, well executed con job is lame and unbelievable! TV actor Karan Wahi is so bland in the film that one wonders whether he is just out of a drug rehab centre with that anorexic frame and excess baggage under his eyes. Anupam Kher is a delight to watch and it's good to see him in a charming role after a long time. The note able landmarks of Hyderabad like the Charminar (the film starts with it as the background), Hussain Sagar, Nehru Zoological Park making way for Lucknow's grand Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza and bustling Aminabad in the second half, unfortunately, hasn't been utilized properly by the DOP . Sajid- Wajid's dragging soundtrack, a reminiscence of the 90's tracks is such a waste barring the title track which has been utilized well into the narrative with some yummy cuisines on display. The film is surely one time watchable because of the sparkling screen presence of the lead cast and Anupam Kher . A much tighter screenplay could have made a lot of difference to the narrative.

Its quite a good movie worth watching. The story is a sort of love story but not exactly. Gullu/Gulrez(Parineeti) is a girl with lot of dreams about starting her own business and moving to United states. Her dad also was in support of her. They wanted to find some money to fulfill their dream. That's how they come across the IPC 498- Dowry law, which provides a huge compensation to the bride if she complained. So they decide to move from Hyderabad to Lucknow to con a rich man and earn some money. That's how they found Taru(Aditya Roy Kapoor) and rest of the story happens in Lucknow. It wont disappoint you. But do not expect too much. Overall verdict: Good(7/10)

Director Mr. Habib Faisal work is OK. He enhanced the mood and scenes by some good shots. There was just an idea in the name of story. Idea is good but development is not. Screenplay offers nothing new. Dialogues by director himself are good and completely suits the mood of film. First half of the film is slow although sweet but second half is half cooked, slow and baseless. Incidents increased in second half but film slowed down because of not well justified scenes. I was unable to justify the first turn of movie that when the leads were aware about that Haidri Kebab is there target then why did they choose to go there? Climax action were not required at all and it looked very childish the way they executed it. Even the action sequence, when lead escaped with cash was complete non happening. Performance wise Parineeti Chopda is very good. Aditya Roy Kapoor is OK. Anupam Kher is fantastic. He uses his body language as a great tool to emote. Music by Sajid –Wajid is melodious and lyrics by Kausar Munir is good.

Whenever we see a romcom, we expect something new but come out saying that it was the very mainstream one. But not with this one. It's an epic Romcom that also delivers a beautiful message which only few people will be able to receive. Its amazing to watch how two people get bonded over food. The script is phenomenal, dialogues are superb, directions are fab! Truly hats off! I mean, if you're looking forward for an amazing weekend, you should definitely book the tickets. Be it with your, lovers, friends, family whoever. You will thoroughly enjoy the 2.5 hours of watching the movie. I recommend to watch it in a good theater. Speaking of the cast, Parineeti Chopra, undoubtedly has done a FANTASTIC job, all over again in this one. Her very typical and desi Hyderabadi accent will WOW you! ARK was also good. Please go and watch the film. Its good to watch such talented actors on the big screen.

Didn't expected much while moving in to watch. However,I loved the whole movie.Didn't felt bored even for a minute.It was entertaining throughly.a light-hearted comedy.good casting and acting.Both parineeti and Aditya were charming,they did well with their Hyderabadi-lucknowi accent and looked completely into the character.I mostly liked because of the story,which was quite different from the usual regular movies.It's not that it has just delicious food but it also has a binding story with a message.direction was good didn't stretched the movie,songs were not forced,after a long time watched a good Bollywood movie.A good one to watch with family

Dawat-e-Ishq is a refreshing take on love, tradition, and the irresistible bond people share with food. Set against the colorful backdrops of Hyderabad and Lucknow, the movie brings together a story that is as flavorful as the dishes it showcases.

I enjoy this movie whenever I watch it. I really liked the role and acting of Aditya Roy Kapur in this movie.

What sets Dawat-e-Ishq apart is its subtle critique of societal norms, particularly the dowry system. The movie delivers its message without being preachy, using humor and drama to spark reflection.

Overall, Dawat-e-Ishq is a refreshing romantic-comedy that serves up a perfect mix of love, laughter, and food. It's a treat for both the heart and the taste buds! If you're a fan of feel-good movies with a meaningful undertone, this one is a must-watch.

Habib Faisal's 'Daawat-E-Ishq' is an interesting concept, that tackles a social issue, works till its first-hour, but dries up in the second-hour. Hurried Romance & a filmy climax, take away its beauty, in totality.

'Daawat-E-Ishq' Synopsis: Sick of dowry harassment time and again, a middle-class father & daughter hatch a plan, which lands them into deeper trouble.

To give Faisal his due, he begins 'Daawat-E-Ishq' fabulously well, with the story & its characters, arresting you attention. But as soon as the Hero enters the scene, the film begins to lose. The romance between its leads is hurried & offers no charm. The filmy climax, filmed at a railway station, is artificial. Faisal's Screenplay stumbles sooner than expected & that certainly is disheartening. Faisal's Direction, however, is classy. Cinematography is average. Editing is fairly crisp. Music by Sajid-Wajid lacks chart-buster quality.

Performance-Wise: Parineeti Chopra is absolutely terrific. She enacts the central part with flourish. Aditya Roy Kapur is a pleasant surprise. Anupam Kher is incredible. Seriously, how good can Kher get? His interactions with Parineeti, are delightful.

On the whole, 'Daawat-E-Ishq' isn't delicious enough, to win your heart.

Dawaat-E-Ishq was a nice attempt in sending out a clear message of dowry system which is very much existing in India. It was an opportunity gone miss because of the weak direction and poor script. The only silver lining was stupendous performance by Aditya Roy Kapoor and Parineeta Chopra.

After rejecting multiple wedding proposals, Gullu(played by Parineeti Chopra) and her father ( played by Anupam Kher) hatches a plan to con a dowry-seeking family.

Habib Faisal ( Do Dooni Chaar, Ishaqzaade) does well mixing the spices of Hyderabad and Lucknow with genuine message of dowry at the background but drama fizzles out in the second half and doesn't give you a satisfaction and you walk out of the theater with mixed feelings. It is the script which could have salvaged the film from falling into pit. Sajid Wajid's music score was superb music . Cinematography is just about OK capturing the back drop of Hyderabad and Lucknow city. Art direction was poor. Dialogues are fine. Aditya Roy Kapur gives a commendable performance. He is sure to get things going. Parineeta Chopra gives a fabulous performance towards the end. Anupam Kher is dependable.

So , Overall , a decent flick which could have been made better but looses the steam afterwards !! Decent 2.5/5

If one considers the sincere presentation, worked upon performances and the important message against the Dowry system in this latest Habib Faisal project, once again coming from the YRF banner, then the intentions are all fine and the film does take you back in that Golden Era when movies used to be made on a social theme with an all Muslim background and characters. But later if you think upon its basic story plot and the unconvincing twist & turns in the script, taking all its major characters for granted going for some silly, unbelievable decisions regarding such a big aspect of one's life i.e. marriage, then the film simply falls flat and offers nothing which can be treated as a Daawat (treat) or Ishq (love) in this so called DAAWAT-E-ISHQ.

Having said that, after some great graphics in the opening credits, the film does begin with all impressive content in its first 15 minutes depicting the middle class life of a father (a clerk in the court) and her well educated daughter (working as a salesgirl in a shoe store) living in Hyderabad searching for a decent boy for her marriage. But as it progresses further with a sudden twist dealing with Section 498 (A) of the Indian Law safeguarding a woman's rights in her marriage, it slips down badly with all senseless decisions being taken by every (supposed to be) sensible character in the script falling into the weak trap planned by the duo. As a result, the narration loses the grip post intermission making it a big drag and comes up with all predictable stuff right till the badly handled climax following a typical Hindi film norm of a happy ending.

Certainly not the kind of film expected from the maker of DO DOONI CHAAR and ISHAQZAADE, the one major point which simply ruined it all for me was the sudden transformation of a solid honest character played by Anupam Kher who had not opted for the obvious despite being there in the court in his entire life. Further the way Aditya's family agrees to every suspicious demand kept in front of them so hurriedly looked more deliberate and even funny, being far away from anything witnessed in our real lives (when it comes to a marriage).

Continuing the recent trend, this is another YRF film with quite a lackluster soundtrack except the catchy title song composed as per the requirement of its basic theme. In the technical department its Cinematography, Editing and Dialogues do try to keep the viewer engrossed in their various individual elements like the outdoor scenes, a fine local set of the eating joint, Hyderabadi accent tried by the actors and the pace giving you less time to think upon the logic. Still nothing works due to the unconvincing plot adapted in a weak script which fails to impress the viewer after its few initial moments in any of the tried genre be it love, con, drama or comedy.

Performances have another shock stored in for the fans as probably this is the first film where Parineeti comes as the last name in the list of good performers led by Aditya Roy Kapur and Anupam Kher. In fact many who considered Aditya as the wrong choice for the role (looking at the promos) would get hugely surprised by the excellent manner he has performed so confidently taking a lead from even a veteran such as Anupam Kher. Aditya shines throughout with his charming persona but sadly enters into the film only after a good 40 minutes as per the need of the script. Anupam Kher once again proves his known versatility playing the Hyderabadi father brilliantly, but after a while goes into a stereotyped shell too because of his badly written character going through a sudden illogical transformation.

On the other hand, Parineeti for the first time looked like pale to me in a film and the major reason for it remains the writing and the feeble plot adapted. For instance she is supposed to be a topper in her studies and yet goes for such a big and silly con-job like an immature girl knowing nothing. Yes, she tries her best adapting the accent, culture and details of a Hyderabadi girl, but doesn't turn out to be that convincing at all as we have seen in her previous ventures, to be honest. In indicative words, the girl desperately needs to come out of her fixed production houses on an urgent basis.Karan Wahi is OK in a dragging, avoidable portion of the film's first half and the rest of the cast is also just there as per the fixed requirements.

In all, the only thing favorable in the film is the loving father- daughter relationship between Anupam Kher and Parineeti, plus its attempt to spread some awareness about the ugly dowry culture followed in our country. However other than that, the film neither has any taste of a delicious dish nor any love in its showcased Ishq as promoted in its title.

Above all, I found it really confusing in the end thinking that what was the actual motive of the writer-director for making this film based on such an important issue? Did he intended to make a film against this evil curse of dowry? OR Was he more willing to showcase the girls who take advantage of this particular law and try to extract the maximum out of their husbands playing a wicked game?

Frankly I couldn't make out what his real intentions were but may be you can. So the choice is all yours and do let me know if you reach any solid logical conclusion, in case you still decide to watch it.

There is nothing new in this story, many people even can predict the movie, But still its worth watching. Acting of Pariniti and Aditya's are superb. Small small elements and dialogs are very nice. Movie is realistic and if you are still enjoying your lively love life, this is the movie you should watch. There is nothing new in story but it still holds you till the end. Thanks Bollywood for giving such nice movie. Its a nice play with very nice message, lot of fun and superb dialog delivery. Watch it with family, as there are very few movies now a day coming out from Bollywood for family. Direction and locations do not have anything special but they makes the realistic scenes and perfectly suites the movie.

This movie starts beautifully, and draws you in. Wonderful heartfelt performances, soulful and energetic music that fits with the Hyderabadi / Lucknavi cultures - this movie had a lot going for it.

So what was missing? A heroine that one could root for, characters that were consistent. The father is an intelligent, poor, kind hearted typical Indian middle class soul who has spend decades walking the path of honesty and yet he suddenly flips and enthusiastically joins his daughter in her plan of crime because of an accident. This was not believable.

The heroine was obnoxious - a poster child for everything that is wrong with the so-called new feminism. She is ill mannered, rude to guests, downright unethical, selfish, bordering on psychopath, the way she steals money from the hero without any compunction. It is only when she goes down the path a while, that she feels any repentance, which is too little, too faint and too late.

And yet, just for the wonderful performance by all concerned, the beautiful direction, editing and cinematography, watch it. Movies like this should be supported - we have too little of these movies in the industry. Note to the team - next time, strengthen the script!

Habib Faisal's directorial venture under Yash raj's banner was supposed to be a colourful and yummy treat for the viewers, with.a formidable star cast of aditya,Parineeti and Anupam kher. But what a disappointment it was,If someone saved the day;then it was the star cast who acted excellent in this story less and poorly directed flick. Director tried to bring the Dowry system into limelight through a chirpy and light hearted story, but he failed. The Story started with Bap-Beti's conversation which was good, dailouges were nice and was carrying a message.Karan Wahi debuted in a nice way and did justice to his part. The story revolved round a girl, who tired of getting rejected due to Dowry, tried to turn the things around by taking money from rich guys in name of Dowry assault. Her course led her to a Bright colored Chef,Aditya roy Kapur, whose definition of love was different and surprising...How she conned him and how they fall in love is what Dawat-E-Ishq all about.

Parineeti again turned out to be a power house performer, with perfect timing and expressions.Aditya was the only fun element in the movie, he was Desi, Lover, chef and a carefree persona.Anupam kher's role was very okayish.

Direction and Script are very poor; music was inappropriate except the Title track Dawat-e0ishq by Javed and Sunidhi.

Set and costumes were good as was expected from a Yash Raj movie. What could be a mouth watering spicy Golgappa, turned out to be a tasteless Cucumber soup.

Can watch it for Aditya and Parineeti's performance...

Amazing acting, story and direction. Definitely one of the top 10 Bollywood films to watch if your a Bollywood lover. Its not the usual dragged love story. Aditya Roy Kapur is a complete delight to watch, if you loved him in Aashiqui 2 you'll love him even more in Dawat e Ishq. Parineeti and Anupam Kher were very good too (their Hyderabadi accents were very good). Karan Wahi makes a sweet guy entry with his first film. If your a foodie it will be even better for you. It is a sweet film with love, comedy, a good message, and its fun filled. You will definitely be smiling walking out of the theater. It wont harm you but definitely amuse you.

This is a sweet, but extremely predictable story. One where you wish there was more meat, literally, to justify the title. You visually do see lots of food, in some cases being consumed too, but apart from stray mentions of 'my grandfather's recipe', you don't really talk about food – the favorite dishes, the taste…and thus what is cooked up is just another love story.

Tired of incessant dowry demands from would-be suitors, Parineeti, one day, decides to get even. Till then, along with her father, Anupam Kher, she ekes out a normal, humdrum, middle class existence as a Hyderabadi Muslim, complete with dreams of America. Inspired by a huge settlement in a local dowry case, she decides she will entrap some rich, dowry demanding family and then use the settlement money to fulfill her dreams. Off they go to Lucknow, under fake identities. And meet Aditya Roy Kapur, who runs, one of the city's most popular eateries. And then the plan changes. Or doesn't it?

Being a Habib Faisal movie, it obviously gets the milieu right – whether its that of a Hyderabadi Muslim (with their sing song dialect), or that of a wannabe middle class person (dreams of America while being a salesgirl at a local shoe store, wants a guy who speaks good English – even better if with an American twang), or even the scared/worried father, desperate to get his daughter married off. In fact, one of the more endearing sub-plots, which was briefly introduced but not really built on, related to Anupam Kher's job as a legal clerk, his own knowledge of the law and the court system yet, despite some egging from colleagues, his inability to fly – ie make the transition from being a clerk to becoming an advocate – despite retirement being just around the corner.

Aditya and Parineeti, both, did justice to their roles, making their slightly over-the-top characters come to life. I particularly liked Aditya's screen presence, he has this slightly gangly look but more than makes up with his expressions and a shy, disarming smile. Hope he doesn't take up any more drunk, suicidal roles. The supporting cast, including the various demanding parents and suitors, was fascinating to watch – their mannerisms, the way their 'requests for help' were communicated (since no one actually uses the word dowry) and also the communication between spouses.

All in all, a good film, a sweet love story, but one which doesn't really rise above the average Bollywood romcom and one where the title, Dawat-E-Ishq, seems like almost an after-thought, to differentiate itself from other films in this genre, without any substantial meat in the script

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Good one time watch. Typical YRF rom-com. With good social message.

This is a fun movie to watch and completely entertaining. We loved how parineeti chopra and aditya roy kapoor acting. They are both natural and make the acting look effortless. Anupam kher is also great. The chemistry between Kher and pareeneta, as father Daughter duo is amazing well portrayed. Its a movie with a good social message as well. And a great display of social chemistry in India. Overall its a good and fun movie to watch. Indian cusine is also portrayed so well, never really done in any other movie i know. Well directed movie and a non-conventional storyline. This is a fun movie to watch and completely entertaining. We loved how parineeti chopra and aditya roy kapoor acting. They are both natural and make the acting look effortless. Anupam kher is also great. The chemistry between Kher and pareeneta, as father Daughter duo is amazing well portrayed. Its a movie with a good social message as well. And a great display of social chemistry in India. Overall its a good and fun movie to watch. Indian cusine is also portrayed so well, never really done in any other movie i know. Well directed movie and a non-conventional storyline.

In this festive season many big budgets movie are coming up with top stars, most of us are saving time and money for them. Frankly speaking despite a talented star cast I didn't had much expectation from this movie and was saving for future releases.

The movie positively surprised me with the content, the delivery by the lead actors and overall execution. Daawat-e-Ishq is a tale of a young girl who is rejected by many grooms because she is unable to meet their dowry demands. She eventually makes a plan to find out the greediest groom and make him pay for it. The cast has put in great effort especially the lead cast. Though one may argue that Parineeti is used to doing loud characters, but the ease with which she carries off this role makes you crave for more . Aditya Roy Kapur's role is different from what he has played till now and frankly I can't think of any other actor who would have put more into the character than himself. Anupan Kher again proves to be a class act. Support cast, cinematography, editing are also good. One another good point in the movie is it never takes itself very seriously. Even some scenes which you would expect to be somber are lightly done, so it never loses the overall mood of the film. The dialogues and props also deserve a special mention for their ingenious humor and relevance. The only down point which I felt was the music which could have been better and have had leveraged the chemistry between the two lead actors. Also the movie slows down in part especially in the second half.

Overall a good movie with a very important message. Miss it if you don't like light hearted, meaningful comedy. Otherwise take your family to this delightful treat you won't find it distasteful.