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Rose Audio Visuals and Sony SAB have recently launched a new show, Itti Si Khushi, an Indian adaptation of the British comedy “Shameless” by Paul Abbot. The show has been adapted into various languages across the globe and has received numerous accolades as well. As India showcases its unique flavour with the concept, it’s time we review this show starring Sumbul Touqeer Khan, Rajat Verma, Varun Badola, and more!
Set in Khotachiwadi in Mumbai, Itti Si Khushi tells the story of the Divekar family. The eldest daughter, Anvita, takes care of her five siblings and her alcoholic father after her mother left them. Struggling to make ends meet, Anvita’s younger brothers, known as Siddu and Bandya, also earn incomes along with schooling. Each of the kids has their unique personality traits and perspectives which often clash, but Anvita’s nurturing and values have helped them to always stick together. Their father, Suhas, is a hopeless alcoholic who shows no care or concern for his children and can even go to the extent of theft to fund his addiction.
Things take a turn for the family when Anvita crosses paths with Virat – a charming, boyish, and caring individual who empathizes with Anvita and her struggles, and saves the family from their issues every now and then. He is evidently wealthy, but it comes from a dodgy business. This love story is however, not so simple, as Anvita’s childhood friend and policeman, Sanjay, is in love with Anvita and is slowly realising that Virat and Anvita are growing close. Making this story even richer is the story between Siddu and his school friend, who he tutors, and between her mother and Suhas. Bandya has developed feelings for his boss’s wife, which concerns Siddu. Anvita’s friend, Diya, and her husband Percy, live upstairs and add to the story too.
In terms of the story, this show is adapted well and suitable for the Indian audience. Its introduction of new concepts to Indian television, like child-headed homes, misuse of social security funds, and even infatuation for someone older, has been eased in gently and suitably. The characters are strong, and viewers will relate to them and their struggles. It’s good to have something fresh and different from other dramas on television.
When we look at the performances, where do we even begin? It’s literally one solid performer after the other! Sumbul Touqeer Khan has never failed to impress with her performances, and as Anvita, she is certainly going to set a new benchmark given the complexity of the role. She effortlessly reflects the stress, maternal instincts, and hope that the character comes with. Sumbul undoubtedly makes you fall in love with Anvita from the first episode. Varun Badola is an actor par excellence, and it’s a great feeling to have him back on television, where we missed him dearly. Suhas is a character unlike the ones we’ve seen him in, and as expected, he rises to the occasion like the pro he is. Rishi Saxena is yet another actor known for his fine performances, and we cannot wait to see how his character unfolds.
The surprise package would have to be Rajat Verma, who is portraying Virat exceptionally well. This is definitely going to be the character that leads to milestones for him, as he navigates his way through the good boy meets bad boy character superbly. Sachin Kavetham and Atharv Padhye are exceptional as Siddu and Bandya, respectively, while child actors Aayesha Vindhara, Harsh Jha, and Saiyansh complete the family adorably and smartly with their performances too.
One of the bonus points for this show is how well the interconnectedness works. Khotachiwadi is a lesser-known part of Mumbai for viewers, and from Anvita’s home to her Diya’s home upstairs, Nandita’s home, to Percy’s café, it successfully transports you to the location in a similar way American sitcoms do.
The only thing we wish this show could have done is highlight homosexuality like Shameless did, but obviously in a more appropriate manner, contrary to its Western counterparts. We understand the restrictions that come with this concept on television, but even if the concept is just introduced, it will be a win for television at large.
Nevertheless, it’s always good to see Indian television experimenting with formats, and when it’s accompanied by a compelling story and characters, like this one, it’s bound to be a winner.
With a spectacular two weeks on air, Itti Si Khushi earns a wonderful 9/10!
Itti Si Khushi airs on Sony SAB and streams on Sony LIV worldwide.
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