Maa Behen Review: Madhuri Dixit Shines, Triptii Dimri Surprises, Dharna is like Firebrand; Ravi Kishan steals the show in thought-provoking social satire

It’s Fryay, packed with back-to-back film releases, not just in theatres but also on OTT. Two major releases, Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor’s Peddi and Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, have hit screens today. Meanwhile, Netflix has dropped Maa Behen, starring Triptii Dimri, Dharna Durga and Madhuri Dixit.

The word Maa-behen is often used as slang in several parts of India, sometimes casually and at times aggressively. However, Netflix’s Maa Behen presents a much deeper picture. The film revolves around a household consisting only of a mother and her daughters, and highlights how difficult it can be for such a family to earn basic respect in society.

Story

One night, half-sisters Jaya (Triptii Dimri) and Sushma (Dharna Durga) receive a call from their mother, Rekha (Madhuri Dixit). Their neighbour, Gupta Ji (Ravi Kishan), has died. The twist? He died inside their house.

Interestingly, the characters’ names evoke memories of the iconic Nirma detergent advertisement, giving us Rekha, Jaya and Sushma vibes.

Adding to the chaos, Jaya’s husband Manas (Shardul Bhardwaj) arrives and stays at the house, completely unaware of Gupta Ji’s death.

The film explores the tangled, cobweb-like lives of Rekha, Jaya and Sushma, showing how gossip, assumptions and societal judgment alter their relationships and dynamics. While the subject is serious, several scenes are genuinely funny and will leave you laughing. At its core, the film conveys a simple yet powerful message: people will always talk, but their words can leave lasting damage.

The screenplay does stretch at times, but strong character writing and a talented cast keep the narrative engaging throughout. The climax is gripping and keeps you guessing about what comes next.

Watching Madhuri Dixit in a role like this is a delight. As Rekha, she plays a mother to Triptii Dimri and marks a welcome return to a performance-driven role. With her grace, poise and impeccable comic timing, it’s hard to take your eyes off her. She looks simply stunning, and her one-liners land perfectly.

The costumes are simple and understated, complementing Madhuri’s old-world charm and elegance.

Triptii Dimri also gets a chance to showcase her acting abilities. In several of her recent films, she has been reduced to just another female lead, often remembered more for her bold looks than her performances. With Maa Behen, she proves that she is not only hot and sensuous but also a capable actor who fits naturally into the role and delivers a strong performance.

Ravi Kishan is equally impressive as Gupta Ji. His screen time may be limited, but every appearance is memorable and impossible to ignore.

To sum it up, Maa Behen is funny, chaotic, emotional and thought-provoking. It is a good watch if you aren’t planning to watch Peddi or Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai. The film is neither preachy nor does it deliver moral essays or indulge in moral policing. Instead, it simply exposes the damage caused by gossip, judgment and societal prejudice.

Netizens who have watched the film have given a thumbs-up to the film.

Take a look

A social media user wrote, “Just finished Maa Behen & my heart is so full. It quietly walks into your heart. Madhuri as Rekha is pure warmth, strength & Magic….bilkul garda uda diye Tripti as Jaya & Dharna as Sushma so effortless & natural.”

Another user said, “#MaaBehen works because it understands gossip. A rumour becomes truth. A flaw becomes a scandal. A woman becomes a story. @MadhuriDixit ‘s Rekha carries that pain with such grace.”

One of the fans wrote, “Male actors working with actresses half their age (zero chemistry, not working still) #MadhuriDixit from #AajaNachle to #MaaBehen unusual pairing still makes it work can create chemistry with every male or female that is something commendable”

Praising Madhuri Dixit’s work in the film, a internet user said, “Decades into her career and still setting the benchmark. Madhuri Dixit delivers yet another exceptional performance in #MaaBehen, proving why she remains one of the finest talents in Indian cinema.”

Mother Sister (Hindi)

Director: Suresh Triveni

Cast: Madhuri Dixit, Triptii Dimri, Dharna Durga, Ravi Kishan, Geetanjali Kulkarni, Shardul Bhardwaj, Arunoday Singh

Runtime: 127 minutes