The story is set in the mid-1990s in Haridwar, India. The protagonist, Prem Prakash Tiwari (played by Ayushmann Khurrana), is an undereducated and unemployed young man. His family pressures him into an arranged marriage with Sandhya (played by Bhumi Pednekar), an educated and ambitious young woman.
Prem is initially repulsed by Sandhya’s appearance, as she does not conform to conventional standards of beauty. The marriage faces challenges due to their differences in education, personality, and societal expectations. Sandhya, pursuing her dreams, aspires to become a teacher.
The turning point in their relationship comes during a local competition where Prem is compelled to participate in a “Dum Laga Ke Haisha” (literally, “Give it all you’ve got”) competition, a traditional race for overweight participants. The experience brings about a change in Prem’s perspective, and he begins to appreciate Sandhya for who she is.
As the couple navigates the ups and downs of their marriage, they gradually develop a deeper understanding and connection. The film explores themes of societal expectations, body image, and the importance of looking beyond external appearances.
In the climax, Prem and Sandhya participate in the Dum Laga Ke Haisha competition together, symbolizing their unity and acceptance of each other. The film ends on a positive note, highlighting the growth of their relationship and the triumph of love over societal prejudices.
“Dum Laga Ke Haisha” received critical acclaim for its refreshing narrative, performances, and its portrayal of unconventional themes. Bhumi Pednekar, in particular, earned praise for her debut performance.