Dil Bechara is a heart-warming, poignant Hindi film that marks the directorial debut of Mukesh Chhabra.
The movie is an adaptation of the acclaimed novel “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green.
Released in 2020, Dil Bechara tells the story of two young cancer patients who find solace and love in each other’s company. This tear-jerking narrative has captured the hearts of millions and left a lasting impact.
In this article, we will dive deep into the movie’s plot, the book it is based on, its key aspects, and fascinating insights into Chhabra’s adaptation, along with other interesting details like quotes, soundtrack, John Green’s biography, and more.
Dil Bechara: Book Summary
The Fault in Our Stars, the novel that inspired Dil Bechara, was published in 2012.
The book revolves around the lives of two teenage cancer patients, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters. Hazel, a 16-year-old girl diagnosed with thyroid cancer, is forced to attend a support group by her parents.
There, she meets Augustus, a 17-year-old boy who lost his leg to osteosarcoma. The two bond over their shared love for books, particularly Hazel’s favorite novel, An Imperial Affliction by Peter Van Houten.
Hazel and Augustus embark on a journey to Amsterdam to meet Peter Van Houten, hoping to find answers to some unresolved questions from the book. Despite their encounter with the reclusive and bitter Van Houten turning out to be disappointing, the trip brings the two protagonists closer, and they fall in love.
However, their happiness is short-lived as Augustus reveals that his cancer has returned and is now terminal. The story follows their love, loss, and strength in the face of a devastating reality.
Dil Bechara: Movie Summary
Dil Bechara follows a similar plotline to The Fault in Our Stars but is set in Jamshedpur, India.
The film introduces us to Kizie Basu (Sanjana Sanghi), a cancer patient who is hesitant to form any lasting bonds due to her diagnosis.
Her world changes when she meets Immanuel Rajkumar Junior, or Manny (Sushant Singh Rajput), an exuberant young man who is also battling osteosarcoma. Together, they embark on an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, tears, and love.
Kizie and Manny bond over a shared love for music and Kizie’s favorite song, “Main Tumhara,” which has an incomplete ending. They set out on a quest to find the song’s composer, Abhimanyu Veer, and discover the missing finale.
Their journey takes them to Paris, where they find Abhimanyu Veer and complete the song. However, their joy is short-lived, as Manny’s health deteriorates rapidly.
The movie ends with Kizie coming to terms with Manny’s death and finding solace in the memories they shared.
Parent Guide for Dil Bechara
Dil Bechara is a film that deals with sensitive themes like terminal illness, love, and loss. Parents should be aware that the movie contains emotional scenes and discussions around cancer, which may be difficult for some viewers.
The film is rated PG-13 for its mature themes, and it is recommended for parents to watch the movie with their children to provide guidance and support.
This movie can serve as an excellent conversation starter for discussing life, love, and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Mukesh Chhabra’s Adaptation: Key Aspects
Mukesh Chhabra’s adaptation of The Fault in Our Stars is a beautiful rendition that stays true to the essence of John Green’s masterpiece.
Chhabra has skillfully woven the story into an Indian context, making it relatable to a wider audience. The dialogues are powerful, and the cinematography captures the raw emotions of the characters.
The director has also added some unique elements to the film, such as the incorporation of Indian music and the beautiful chemistry between the lead actors.
One of the most notable aspects of Chhabra’s adaptation is the casting of Sushant Singh Rajput and Sanjana Sanghi as the lead characters.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and they breathe life into the characters of Manny and Kizie.
The supporting cast, including Swastika Mukherjee as Kizie’s mother and Saswata Chatterjee as her father, adds depth and authenticity to the story.
When and Where: Film Locations and Timeline
Dil Bechara was filmed in various locations across India and France.
The primary setting is Jamshedpur, a small town in the Indian state of Jharkhand. This charming town serves as the perfect backdrop for the story, with its tree-lined streets and quaint architecture.
The college scenes were shot at St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, while the Paris sequences were filmed at iconic locations such as the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre.
The movie was initially slated for a theatrical release in November 2019.
However, due to post-production delays and the unfortunate demise of lead actor Sushant Singh Rajput in June 2020, the film’s release was pushed back. It finally premiered on Disney+ Hotstar on July 24, 2020, as a tribute to the late actor.
Who’s Who: Cast and Characters
The primary cast of Dil Bechara includes the following talented actors:
- Sushant Singh Rajput as Immanuel Rajkumar Junior (Manny)
- Sanjana Sanghi as Kizie Basu
- Sahil Vaid as Jagdish Pandey (JP), Manny’s best friend
- Swastika Mukherjee as Mrs. Basu, Kizie’s mother
- Saswata Chatterjee as Mr. Basu, Kizie’s father
- Saif Ali Khan as Abhimanyu Veer, the composer of “Main Tumhara”
Each actor’s portrayal of their character adds depth and authenticity to the story, making it a memorable cinematic experience.
Memorable Quotes from Dil Bechara
Dil Bechara is filled with powerful dialogues that resonate with the audience.
Here are some memorable quotes from the movie:
- “We don’t get to decide when we are born, and when we die. But we do get to decide how we live our lives.” – Manny
- “Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.” – JP
- “I cannot tell you how thankful I am for our little infinity. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. You gave me a forever within the numbered days, and I’m grateful.” – Kizie
- “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” – Abhimanyu Veer
A. R. Rahman’s Soulful Soundtrack
The music for Dil Bechara is composed by the legendary A. R. Rahman, whose soulful tunes perfectly complement the emotions portrayed in the movie.
The soundtrack features a mix of romantic ballads, lively numbers, and heart-wrenching melodies.
Some of the popular songs from the film include “Dil Bechara”, “Taare Ginn”, “Khulke Jeene Ka”, “Main Tumhara”, and “Maskhari.” Each song adds depth to the narrative and helps the audience connect with the characters on a deeper level.
Curiosities and Trivia
- Dil Bechara is the last film of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, who passed away in June 2020. The film is dedicated to his memory.
- The movie’s title, Dil Bechara, translates to “Helpless Heart” in English, reflecting the vulnerability of the characters and their emotions.
- Author John Green was reportedly very impressed with the adaptation and praised Mukesh Chhabra’s direction and the performances of the lead actors.
- The shooting of the song “Taare Ginn” took place over two nights, with the actors dancing for nearly 14 hours each day.
Dressing Up: Tips for Cosplay and Emulating Characters
For those who are inspired by the characters in Dil Bechara and wish to emulate their style, here are some tips:
- Kizie Basu: Her wardrobe consists mainly of casual, comfortable clothing like printed kurtis, denim jackets, and sneakers. Her signature accessory is her oxygen tank, which she carries around in a backpack.
- Manny: His style is laid-back and sporty, with graphic t-shirts, hoodies, and jeans. Don’t forget to include his prosthetic leg, an essential part of his character.
- JP: JP’s style is simple and unassuming, with basic t-shirts, jeans, and a bandana to cover his bald head.
Remember, the key to a successful cosplay is to pay attention to the details and stay true to the character’s essence.
John Green: Biography and Notable Works
John Green is an American author, vlogger, and educator, best known for his young adult novels.
Born on August 24, 1977, in Indianapolis, Green initially aspired to become a priest but later pursued a career in writing. He rose to fame with his debut novel, Looking for Alaska, which won the Michael L. Printz Award in 2006.
He has since written several best-selling books, including An Abundance of Katherines, Paper Towns, and The Fault in Our Stars.
Green’s novels are known for their unique blend of humor, romance, and tragedy, often exploring themes like love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. His writing has resonated with readers worldwide, earning him a dedicated following.
Dil Bechara’s Ending: Explained
Dil Bechara’s ending is a poignant and emotional culmination of the story. As Manny’s health deteriorates, he decides to make a film with JP about his and Kizie’s love story.
The film, titled “Dil Bechara,” serves as a way for Manny to immortalize their memories and leave a lasting legacy.
After Manny’s death, Kizie finds solace in watching the film and realizes that, despite the pain and loss, the time they spent together was a beautiful and unforgettable experience.
The movie ends with Kizie and her family releasing Manny’s ashes into the Ganges River, symbolizing the acceptance of his death and the beginning of the healing process.
Potential Remakes, Sequels, and Spin-offs
While there are no official announcements for remakes, sequels, or spin-offs of Dil Bechara, the film’s success and the global appeal of its source material leave room for possibilities.
The story could be adapted into different languages and cultures, further expanding the reach of this heart-wrenching tale.
Other Media by Mukesh Chhabra
Dil Bechara is Mukesh Chhabra’s directorial debut, but he is also a renowned casting director in the Indian film industry.
Some of the notable movies he has worked on include Gangs of Wasseypur, Kai Po Che!, Highway, Dangal, and Sanju. Chhabra has also launched the careers of several talented actors through his casting agency, Mukesh Chhabra Casting Company.
Similar Media to Dil Bechara and The Fault in Our Stars
For those who enjoyed Dil Bechara or The Fault in Our Stars, here are some similar movies and books to explore:
- Movies:
- A Walk to Remember (2002)
- Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)
- Me Before You (2016)
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
- Five Feet Apart (2019)
- Books:
- If I Stay by Gayle Forman
- Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
- All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
- Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
- Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Other Works by John Green
In addition to The Fault in Our Stars, John Green has written several other acclaimed novels:
- Looking for Alaska (2005)
- An Abundance of Katherines (2006)
- Paper Towns (2008)
- Will Grayson, Will Grayson (2010, co-written with David Levithan)
- The Anthropocene Reviewed (2021)
Book Club Questions for Dil Bechara
- How do the characters of Kizie and Manny cope with their illness and the uncertainty of their future?
- What role does music play in the story, and how does it contribute to the emotional impact of the film?
- How does the setting of Jamshedpur contribute to the story’s overall atmosphere and tone?
- How does Dil Bechara differ from its source material, The Fault in Our Stars? What aspects of the adaptation did you find most effective?
- Discuss the theme of love and its portrayal in the movie. How does the love between Kizie and Manny evolve over time?
Video Games Inspired by Dil Bechara
While there are no specific video games directly inspired by Dil Bechara, fans of the movie can explore narrative-driven games that touch upon themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Some games that might resonate with fans include Life is Strange, What Remains of Edith Finch, and To the Moon.
Travel Guide: Visiting Dil Bechara Filming Locations
For those who wish to explore the beautiful locations featured in Dil Bechara, here is a brief travel guide:
- Jamshedpur, India: This charming city is home to Tata Steel, India’s largest steel plant. Attractions include Jubilee Park, Tata Steel Zoological Park, and Dimna Lake.
- Paris, France: The City of Lights offers countless iconic attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre.
- Mumbai, India: Visit St. Xavier’s College, where some scenes from the movie were shot, along with other popular attractions like the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Elephanta Caves.
Conclusion
Dil Bechara is an unforgettable film that has touched the hearts of millions.
Its powerful narrative, stellar performances, and soulful music make it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good love story.
From its book and movie summaries to fascinating insights into Chhabra’s adaptation, we hope this article has provided a comprehensive look into the world of Dil Bechara and The Fault in Our Stars.
