2 States - 2014

2 States is a charming Bollywood film released in 2014, directed by Abhishek Varman. This romantic drama is an adaptation of Chetan Bhagat's bestselling novel of the same name. Set against the backdrop of the diverse and colourful culture of India, the movie takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster ride through the complexities of intercultural relationships.

The story revolves around Krish Malhotra, played by Arjun Kapoor, a Punjabi boy from Delhi, and Ananya Swaminathan, portrayed by Alia Bhatt, a Tamilian girl from Chennai. Despite coming from different cultural backgrounds, Krish and Ananya fall deeply in love during their time at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Ahmedabad.

Their journey is not an easy one, as they face numerous challenges arising from the clash between their families' traditions and expectations. The film beautifully depicts the contrasting customs, languages, and cuisines of North and South India, highlighting the rich diversity of the country.

With its delightful blend of romance, comedy, and drama, 2 States offers a heartfelt exploration of love, relationships, and the complexities of intercultural unions. The film's stellar performances, captivating storyline, and vibrant music make it a must-watch for Bollywood enthusiasts and fans of heartfelt romantic dramas alike.

Table of Contents

• Details

• Plot

• Release

• Reviews

• Cast

• Crew

• Character Analysis

• Songs

• Behind the Scenes

• Controversy

• Box Office Collection

• Awards

• Interesting Facts

• Conclusion

• How to Book a Personalised Celebrity Message from a Star Similar to the Actors from 2 States on Tring?

Details

Plot

Play2 States is a romantic drama that revolves around the love story of Krish Malhotra (Arjun Kapoor) and Ananya Swaminathan (Alia Bhatt), two young individuals hailing from different cultural backgrounds. The movie is an adaptation of Chetan Bhagat's novel of the same name.

Krish, a Punjabi boy from Delhi, and Ananya, a Tamil Brahmin girl from Chennai, meet at the prestigious Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A). As they spend time together, their friendship blossoms into love. After completing their post-graduation, the couple decides to get married with the blessings of their families.

However, their families' diverse cultural backgrounds become a significant obstacle in their journey to unite. Krish's family is loud and boisterous, while Ananya's family is conservative and orthodox. The couple faces numerous challenges as they attempt to persuade their parents to accept their relationship.

Ananya's family accepts Krish's symbolic marriage proposal. Krish and Ananya go to New Delhi to impress Krish's family. After Ananya saves Krish's cousin's wedding from a dowry issue, Kavita and her family warm up to her. Krish and Ananya have a family holiday in Mumbai before the wedding. But Kavita's insults about Tamilian culture eventually ruin the holiday. Ananya and her parents also hear Krish lie to his mother about treating Ananya however she wants when they marry. Ananya leaves Krish after he insults her too much.

Krish and Ananya struggle without each other. Krish becomes a workaholic and melancholy, writing about his story with Ananya. She urges him to avoid communicating when he visits her in Chennai. Later, Ananya calls to tell him that Vikram had secretly come down to Chennai to speak to her parents, apologising for his wife's poor behaviour and convincing them to change their minds.

This permits Krish and Ananya to marry, with Krish and his family travelling to Chennai via rail. His father initially says he won't attend the wedding to avoid embarrassment, but at the last minute, he flies down to Chennai with Krish, seeing his rental car outside the hotel, and surprises his mother by announcing that he'll be there before the ceremony. Kavita receives an apology from Vikram.

Ananya gives birth to twin boys after marrying. Krish resigns from his bank position and publishes his novel 2 States, which is based on his and Ananya's lives.

Release

The teaser trailer for 2 States was published at the same time as Hasee Toh Phasee, which was released on February 7, 2014.

Reviews

2 States is a delightful Bollywood film that beautifully captures the complexities of intercultural relationships with a perfect blend of romance, comedy, and drama. Directed by Abhishek Varman and based on Chetan Bhagat's bestselling novel, the movie leaves a lasting impression with its engaging storyline and stellar performances.

One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its relatability. It skillfully explores the challenges faced by couples hailing from different cultural backgrounds in India. The clash between North and South Indian traditions is depicted with authenticity, showcasing the stark differences in language, cuisine, and customs. This serves as a catalyst for both humor and conflict, allowing the audience to empathize with the characters and their struggles.

The chemistry between the lead pair, Arjun Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, is electrifying. They effortlessly bring their characters, Krish and Ananya, to life, infusing them with charm, warmth, and vulnerability. Their on-screen presence is captivating, and their emotional journey keeps the viewers invested throughout the film.

The supporting cast also delivers commendable performances. Revathy and Shiv Kumar Subramaniam excel as Ananya's parents, portraying the complexities of parental expectations and the fear of cultural dilution. Amrita Singh shines as Krish's mother, depicting the protective and opinionated nature of a Punjabi matriarch.

The film strikes a perfect balance between lighthearted moments and poignant emotional scenes. The screenplay is well-crafted, with witty dialogue and seamless transitions between comedy and drama. The vibrant cinematography and catchy music further enhance the storytelling, immersing the audience in the world of Krish and Ananya.

What sets 2 States apart is its underlying message of love and acceptance. It emphasizes the importance of understanding, respecting, and embracing cultural differences for the sake of true love. The film successfully portrays the power of love in bridging gaps and bringing people together.

With its engaging storyline, exceptional performances, and meaningful message, this movie is a true gem in the realm of romantic dramas.

Cast

• Arjun Kapoor as Krish Malhotra

• Alia Bhatt as Ananya Swaminathan Malhotra

• Amrita Singh as Kavita Mehra Malhotra (Krish's mother)

• Ronit Roy as Vikram Malhotra (Krish's father)

• Revathi as Radha Swaminathan (Ananya's mother)

• Shiv Kumar Subramaniam as Shiv Swaminathan (Ananya's father)

• Sharang Natrajan as Manju Swaminathan (Ananya's brother)

• Amit Bhargav as Harish (Ananya's proposed husband)

• Achint Kaur as Shipra Mehra (Krish's aunt)

• Dilip Merala as Mohit Oberoi (Krish's classmate)

• Aru Krishansh Verma as Dharamveer Duke

• Bikramjeet Kanwarpal as Rajji Mama

• Neil Shah as Ramanuj

• Madhu Anand Chandhock as Duke's Mother

Crew

• Director(s) - Abhishek Varman

• Screenplay Writer(s) - Abhishek Varman

• Story Writer(s) - Chetan Bhagat, Abhishek Varman, and Hussain Dalal

• Producer(s) - Karan Johar and Sajid Nadiadwala

• Cinematographer(s) - Binod Pradhan

• Editor(s) - Namrata Rao

• Musician(s) - Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Tubby-Parik

Character Analysis

• Krish Malhotra (Arjun Kapoor) - Krish is a talented and ambitious Punjabi boy from Delhi who enrolls at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A) to pursue his post-graduate studies. He is intelligent, loving, and dedicated to his relationship with Ananya. Throughout the movie, he faces several challenges as he tries to convince his family to accept Ananya and her family despite their cultural differences.

• Ananya Swaminathan (Alia Bhatt) - Ananya is a confident and independent Tamil Brahmin girl from Chennai who also studies at IIM-A. She is a bright student, a talented singer, and a strong-willed person who is not afraid to stand up for her love. Ananya's determination to marry Krish with their families' blessings becomes the central theme of the story.

• Vikram Malhotra (Ronit Roy) - Vikram is Krish's strict and dominating father, who has a troubled relationship with his son. He is initially against the idea of Krish marrying Ananya due to their cultural differences. However, he eventually comes around and supports the couple's decision.

• Kavita Malhotra (Amrita Singh) - Kavita is Krish's outspoken and loving mother, who is initially resistant to accept Ananya as her daughter-in-law due to their contrasting backgrounds. Throughout the movie, she undergoes a transformation as she learns to understand and appreciate Ananya's culture.

• Shiv Swaminathan (Shiv Kumar Subramaniam) - Shiv is Ananya's father, a conservative and orthodox Tamil Brahmin. He is initially skeptical about Krish and his family but gradually warms up to them as he witnesses their genuine love for his daughter.

• Radha Swaminathan (Revathi) - Radha is Ananya's affectionate and supportive mother. She is open-minded and understanding, and she plays a significant role in helping the families come together.

Songs

Behind the Scenes

Play

On January 29, 2013, principal photography began with the recording of a song. In August 2013, parts of the film were shot in Chennai, Delhi, IIM-A, and Gol Limda Bhajiya House near Astodia Darwaza, Ahmedabad Railway Station, and the Police Commissioner's office in Ahmedabad. Throughout the movie, Alia displayed an Indian Fusion style, and Manish Malhotra was responsible for designing her clothes. Alia describes her role as a City Girl who only speaks Tamil with her parents. The censor board gave the film a U/A rating.

Remo D'Souza is responsible for the choreography and the concept behind the song Offo. The song is a celebration of various Indian festivals that take place over the course of practically an entire year. It was shot at IIM Ahmedabad campus as well as Filmistan Studio in Mumbai over the course of four days.

Controversy

While the film was well-received by the majority of the audience, a few aspects sparked discussions and raised concerns among certain groups. Here are some controversies related to the movie:

• Portrayal of stereotypes - Some viewers felt that the film perpetuated stereotypes associated with North and South Indian cultures. The movie showcased exaggerated cultural differences, which some found to be reinforcing regional stereotypes. The portrayal of certain customs, accents, and behaviors was seen as an oversimplification and generalization, potentially perpetuating misunderstandings and biases.

• Adaptation controversies - 2 States is based on Chetan Bhagat's novel of the same name. As with many adaptations, there were debates about the faithfulness of the movie to the source material. Some fans of the book expressed disappointment with certain changes made in the screenplay, claiming that it drifted too much from the original story, altered character arcs, or omitted important plot elements.

• Social and cultural commentary - The film touches upon themes of regionalism, cultural assimilation, and parental expectations. This led to discussions about the representation of these topics and whether the movie successfully tackled them in a sensitive manner. Some viewers felt that the film missed the opportunity to provide deeper social commentary and address the complexities of cultural integration in a more thought-provoking manner.

Box Office Collection

2 States made ₹120 million (US$1.5 million) on day one. The second day's collections were ₹118 million (US$1.5 million), bringing the two-day total to ₹238 million (US$3.0 million). Mumbai, Mysore, Delhi-UP, CP Berar, CI, Nizam, and Rajasthan had a great response. 

Box Office India declared the film a Super Hit after two days. It grossed ₹280 million rupees (US$3.5 million) in three days in multiplexes and single screens. 2 States had a domestic net of ₹811 million (US$10 million). The movie’s overall collection is ₹175 Crore.

Awards

Interesting Facts

• 2 States is inspired by Chetan Bhagat's real life story.

• Shahrukh Khan was meant to play Krish Malhotra, with Priyanka Chopra playing Ananya Malhotra.

• Ranbir Kapoor was also considered for the lead role.

• Actress Revathi offered Alia advice on how to speak Tamil more clearly.

• 2 States is in the 100 Crore Club.

Conclusion

2 States ultimately emphasizes the importance of understanding, respect, and compromise in the pursuit of love. It showcases the potential for personal growth and the breaking down of barriers when individuals open their hearts and minds to different cultures. The film's underlying message of unity and acceptance resonates beyond its storyline, reminding viewers of the strength and beauty that lie in embracing diversity.

Despite the controversies, the movie has left an indelible mark on Bollywood cinema.

It continues to be celebrated for its entertaining blend of romance, comedy, and drama, as well as its exploration of intercultural dynamics.

Whether as a source of laughter, tears, or introspection, the film serves as a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that the power of understanding can conquer even the most challenging cultural divides.

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