Milap Zaveri's 'Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat': A Controversial Take on Stalking

A Troubling Narrative

In his latest film, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, Milap Zaveri attempts to rejuvenate his declining career by romanticizing the actions of stalkers. The film features Harshvardhan Rane, known for his role in Sanam Teri Kasam, portraying a menacing politician who interprets 'no' as 'yes.'

Rane plays Vikramaditya, an unelected chief minister of Maharashtra, whose influence is so significant that the actual chief minister vacates his office upon his arrival. Vikramaditya, who prefers to be called Aditya, becomes infatuated with the Bollywood actress Adaa, played by Sonam Bajwa, at first sight.

Despite Adaa's clear disinterest, which she communicates repeatedly, Vikramaditya stalks her relentlessly, even going so far as to announce their impending marriage and begin planning the event.

However, Vikramaditya is portrayed not as a typical stalker but as a passionate and sincere young man who claims to love rather than lust. He never physically touches Adaa, despite his constant presence.

Whenever Adaa faces any danger, Vikramaditya is there to offer unsolicited protection, which ultimately paints her as unreasonable and cold-hearted for rejecting his advances.

The film, which runs for 140 minutes, is co-written by Zaveri and Mushtaq Shiekh, featuring painfully slow-motion scenes and songs filled with dreary lyrics. The overall experience feels akin to being stuck in a cramped elevator during a prolonged blackout.

Expressions of deep emotion are largely absent, with Rane maintaining a single, pained look throughout. Bajwa's performance is similarly lackluster, while Shaad Randhawa, who plays Vikramaditya's devoted assistant, displays more emotional range than either lead.