“Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota,” translated as “The Man Who Feels No Pain,” is a 2018 Indian Hindi-language film that stands out for its innovative fusion of action and comedy. Directed by Vasan Bala and produced by Ronnie Screwvala under RSVP Movies, the film introduces Abhimanyu Dassani in his acting debut, alongside Radhika Madan and Gulshan Devaiah. The narrative centers on a young man with congenital insensitivity to pain, embarking on a quest to vanquish his foes.
Plot Overview of Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota
Suryaanshu “Surya” Sampat, portrayed by Abhimanyu Dassani, is born with congenital analgesia, a rare condition rendering him impervious to physical pain. Raised by his cautious father and spirited grandfather, Surya’s life takes a tragic turn when his mother falls victim to chain snatchers. This incident fuels his fascination with martial arts, inspired by his grandfather’s collection of action films, particularly those featuring a one-legged karate master, Mani.
Surya’s childhood is marked by bullying due to his condition, with his neighbor Supriya “Supri” Bhatnagar, played by Radhika Madan, often coming to his defense. As they grow apart, Surya’s obsession with martial arts intensifies, leading him to train rigorously in secret. Upon discovering that his idol, Karate Mani, is real and embroiled in a conflict with his evil twin brother, Jimmy, Surya teams up with Supri to retrieve a stolen family heirloom and confront the adversaries.
Critical Reception
“Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota” received widespread acclaim for its originality and homage to classic action cinema. Critics praised its blend of humor, action, and nostalgia. The Indian Express described it as a “nostalgia-doused nod to Bollywood masala,” highlighting its self-aware humor and engaging narrative.
Hindustan Times lauded the film as “the most entertaining action movie in decades,” emphasizing its innovative approach to the genre and the standout performances of the cast.
The Times of India commended the film’s clever crafting, noting that it parodies and reveres action/superhero films in equal measure. The review highlighted the performances of the lead actors and the film’s unique narrative style.
Cast and Performances
- Abhimanyu Dassani as Surya: In his debut role, Dassani delivers a compelling performance as a young man immune to pain yet vulnerable in his quest for justice. His portrayal balances physical prowess with emotional depth, earning him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.
- Radhika Madan as Supri: Madan’s portrayal of Supri is both fierce and nuanced. Her character subverts traditional gender roles, showcasing strength and independence. Madan’s performance was widely appreciated, with critics noting her impressive action sequences and screen presence.
- Gulshan Devaiah in Dual Roles: Devaiah’s depiction of twin brothers Mani and Jimmy showcases his versatility. He brings distinct personalities to each character, contributing significantly to the film’s dynamic narrative. His performance was recognized with a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Filmfare Awards.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Vasan Bala’s vision combines elements of classic martial arts films with a contemporary comedic twist. His direction pays tribute to genre conventions while introducing a fresh perspective. The film’s cinematography by Jay I. Patel complements Bala’s vision, capturing action sequences with clarity and style. The use of slow-motion and innovative camera angles enhances the viewing experience, making the action both engaging and visually appealing.
Soundtrack and Music
The film’s music, composed by Karan Kulkarni and Dipanjan Guha, features a blend of energetic tracks and nostalgic tunes that align with the film’s tone. The soundtrack complements the narrative, enhancing both comedic and action-packed moments. The background score effectively underscores the film’s dynamic shifts, contributing to its overall impact.
Awards and Nominations
“Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota” garnered several accolades, reflecting its critical success:
- Toronto International Film Festival 2018: Won the People’s Choice Award: Midnight Madness, signaling its international appeal and recognition.
- 65th Filmfare Awards:
- Best Male Debut: Abhimanyu Dassani (Won)
- Best Actress (Critics): Radhika Madan (Nominated)
- Best Supporting Actor: Gulshan Devaiah (Nominated)
- Best Film (Critics): Vasan Bala (Nominated)
- Best Story: Vasan Bala (Nominated)
- Best Action: Eric Jacobus, Anand Shetty (Nominated)
Box Office Performance
Despite its critical acclaim, the film faced challenges at the box office. Released on 375 screens in India, it grossed approximately ₹2.03 crore domestically. A dispute with multiplex chains over fees limited its wider release, impacting its commercial performance. Producer Ronnie Screwvala filed a grievance with the Competition Commission of India regarding the imposed fees, which affected the film’s distribution.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota” has been celebrated for its unique approach to storytelling, blending humor with action, and paying homage to classic cinema. Its cult following continues to grow, with audiences appreciating its originality and the performances of its cast. The film’s innovative narrative and stylistic choices have inspired discussions about genre-blending in Indian cinema.
