Review: Yeh Meri Family S2 wraps you in a cozy hug on a winter night trying to make you reminisce the 90's era

Yeh Meri Family review

Yeh Meri Family Season 2 by The Viral Fever ingeniously captures the essence of the nostalgic 90's era, resonating with the experiences of every child. Building upon the success of its 2018 debut, the latest season transports us to the enchanting city of Lucknow during the winter season. Delving into the formative years of adolescence, the narrative revolves around Ritika (portrayed by the talented Hetal Gada). With meticulous attention to detail, the show masterfully recreates the self-absorbed perspective of a teenage girl. 

The essence of the 90's

The show starts with 'desi family' mornings and portrays a middle class family and their day-to day life. One thing which the director tries to infuse throughout and live up to the theme is the '90's era vibe. From the costumes like the woolen sweaters, shawls and monkey cap, to the vintage artifacts kept in the hall, or be it the old telephones, every little thing and detailing speaks 90's. Director paints a simple picture but with poignant themes in the show which will actually make you remember the good old days. Ritika (Hetal) receiving blank calls on a telephone, the family enjoying groundnuts on a winter evening, it all gets nostalgic as you see each episode. But at the same time, sometimes it does feel that things have been forced and there's a lot more in the that era than just 'playing ludo' or the 'wespa scooter'. 

The sheer feeling of connectedness

In a time of western consumption and influence and watching content showing super-cool and modernized families, this show hits the right chord in showcasing the 'real so-called brown family'.  From grandkids sharing sweet moments with their grandmother to the sweet and salty sibling fights, it captures the essence of a regular middle-class family that you can actually relate to. Ritika wanting to have her separate room, Rajesh promising to get cable in the house if she passes, Ritika's bond with her dad and brother, it all hit the right chords. 

Anngad Maaholay's main character energy

While all the characters have something great to offer, child artist Anngad Maaholay who plays 'Rishi' is a real thing. He is a complete package of entertainment and keeps up with the same energy throughout. His one liners, punch lines and comic timing comes right at your face and gets a smile on your face. Rishi's poignant remark to his mother, "Bahut daring kar Rahi hai, thoda dho use," resonates with a vast audience, reflecting relatable sentiments. Furthermore, his audacious declaration, "Maine 2 patang kaate hai, ab me bachcha nahi raha," carries a subtle depth of meaning, evoking introspection.

Other Performances

The show's strength lies in its exceptional characterisation, while centering the spotlight on the remarkable portrayal of Ritika by the talented Hetal Gada. Through Ritika's perspective, a nuanced understanding emerges of her ostensibly strict mother, flawlessly brought to life by the seasoned Juhi Parmar, who makes a noteworthy foray into the world of over-the-top (OTT) content with this show. The aloof yet intriguing presence of her father, impeccably portrayed by Rajesh Kumar, adds further depth to the narrative. The delightful moments shared between the kids and their daadi, brilliantly portrayed by Veena Mehta, add an extra layer of warmth and affection to the story. The show's meticulous attention to detail in character development underscores its commitment to creating a rich and immersive viewing experience.

What is lacking

Mandar Kurundkar's previous season exuded a certain enchantment that seems to be missing in this installment. The captivating dynamics of sibling rivalry, the profound bond, and the challenges faced during summer vacations by the protagonist were more alluring compared to the experiences encountered by Ritika in the current season. 

The Verdict 

Yeh Meri Family Season 2 artfully immerses us in the chilly embrace of the "sardi ka mausam," evoking a myriad of emotions and encapsulating the universal desires for independence and self-discovery.

Rating: ***(3/5) stars