Movie: Rahu Ketu
Starring: Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma, Shalini Pandey, Piyush Mishra, Chunky Pandey, Amit Sial, Manu Rishi Chadha, Sumit Gulati
Director: Vipul Vig
Producers: Umesh Kumar Bansal, Suraj Singh, Varsha Kukreja, Pragati Deshmukh
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Rating: 3.5/5
By Sharmila Mishra
Rahu Ketu feels like a nice diversion at a time when Hindi cinema frequently tends toward excessive noise and spectacle. The film, which is based on the well-established friendship between Pulkit Samrat and Varun Sharma, relies on situational humor, easy companionship, and a subtle mythological element to create a lighthearted, entertaining, and generally gratifying viewing experience.
The movie, which takes place in a small village in Himachal Pradesh, presents Churu Lal Sharma (Manu Rishi Chadha), a writer who is struggling with both personal and professional frustration. When he meets the eccentric Phuphaji (Piyush Mishra), an enigmatic character with a strange book that can make dreams come true, his routine is upended. Rahu and Ketu, two peculiar yet instantly charming creatures whose presence invariably results in chaos, are introduced in the book. The town’s residents view the pair as unlucky, but they are unaware of the chaos they create. Alongside this storyline is that of Meenu (Shalini Pandey), whose hidden connection to the unpredictable local mobster Mordekhai (Chunky Pandey) adds humor and conflict to the pandemonium that is developing.
The smooth relationship between Pulkit Samrat and Varun Sharma is the core of the movie. As Rahu, Varun Sharma uses expressive comedic timing to capitalize on his strength, while Pulkit Samrat counterbalances the energy with a more subdued, reactive style as Ketu. The most memorable parts of the movie come from their interactions. Shalini Pandey gives Meenu authenticity and poise, offering emotional stability in the midst of chaos. Piyush Mishra’s portrayal of Phuphaji, which combines quirkiness with nuanced wit, is especially impressive. Chunky Pandey, Amit Sial, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Sumit Gulati provide supporting roles that uphold the story’s drive and improve its texture.
Tonal changes and the ensemble cast are expertly handled by writer-director Vipul Vig. The film has a fluid and spontaneous rhythm because comedy emerges organically from events rather than staged gags. The compelling interpersonal interactions keep the movie from losing its hold, even when some scenes feel a little drawn out. The setting is allowed to breathe and naturally complement the plot because the Himachal landscape is depicted with moderation. The film’s fun atmosphere is reinforced by the background soundtrack and music, which are vibrant but restrained.
Strong performances, character-driven humor, and a subtle mythological touch serve as the foundation for Rahu Ketu’s success as a lighthearted performer. The picture fulfills its promise of simple, lighthearted enjoyment, even though a more precise edit may have increased the overall impact. Rahu Ketu is a delightful theatrical experience, driven by the Pulkit–Varun duo and a self-assured storytelling style.
