As the February 20 release of Do Deewane Seher Mein approaches, Sandeepa Dhar has already captured attention with a heartfelt Instagram note. In just a few powerful lines, she introduced audiences to her character, Naina. However, her message went far beyond promoting a romantic film. Instead, it pointed toward a deeper and more pressing social reality.
Although the film, directed by Ravi Udyawar and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali Films, is positioned as a love story, Sandeepa’s reflection suggests that it carries a far more layered narrative.
Beyond Romance: A Closer Look at Social Pressures
At first glance, Naina appears to be the “perfect” woman. She is beautiful, accomplished, and married into wealth. On paper, she represents the ideal that society often celebrates and aspires to.
However, perfection comes at a price. Beneath the flawless image lies a woman who has gradually lost her sense of identity. In fact, Sandeepa subtly hints that this silent sacrifice mirrors the lived experience of many women in Indian households.
Therefore, the film does not merely tell a love story. Rather, it questions the emotional cost of constantly living up to societal expectations.
Shedding Light on Sibling Comparison Culture
More importantly, one of the film’s central themes is sibling comparison — a cultural practice that is common yet rarely discussed openly. In many families, one child is labelled the “ideal” one, while the other grows up in the shadow of constant comparison.
While such comparisons are often defended as motivation, they can quietly damage self-worth. Over time, they create emotional distance, insecurity, and inner conflict.
Through Naina’s journey, the film appears to challenge this deeply rooted norm. It encourages audiences to rethink how casual comparisons can leave lasting emotional scars.
Redefining Success and Self-Worth
At the same time, Sandeepa’s note raises larger questions about identity and validation. Why is a woman’s success still measured by how well she fits predefined roles? Why does external approval often outweigh personal happiness? And perhaps most importantly, why does striving for perfection frequently lead to self-erasure?
Importantly, the narrative does not criticise tradition outright. Instead, it holds up a mirror. It acknowledges that Indian love stories are rarely about just two people. Rather, they are shaped by family expectations, social status, and invisible checklists of what is considered “right.”
A Story of Love — and Reclamation
By describing Do Deewane Seher Mein as “a story about two imperfect people finding true love and finding themselves,” Sandeepa reframes the film as more than romance. It becomes a story of rediscovery and emotional freedom. It moves beyond labels such as the “ideal daughter,” “ideal wife,” or “ideal sibling.”
Moreover, at a time when conversations around mental health and individuality are gaining mainstream attention, Naina’s journey feels especially relevant. While society may continue to glorify perfection, stories like this remind us that authenticity is far more powerful.
Ultimately, if Sandeepa Dhar’s reflection is any indication, February 20 may mark more than just a film release. It could spark meaningful conversations that many families have long avoided.
