Thappad Turns 5: Pavail Gulatie on How the Film Still Resonates

Released in 2020, Thappad is not just a movie—it’s a powerful social commentary. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film stars Pavail Gulatie and Taapsee Pannu in lead roles and highlights deep-rooted gender norms, domestic abuse, and societal expectations placed on women. The famous dialogue, "Sirf thappad hai, par nahi maar sakta", became a defining moment in the film, emphasizing the importance of respect in relationships.

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Pavail Gulatie on the Film’s Lasting Impact

As Thappad marks its 5th anniversary, Pavail Gulatie looks back at the film’s significance and the impact it had on audiences. He shared, "Thappad has been an incredible journey for me. This film remains close to my heart because of its strong message. It took me seven takes to get the slap scene right, and I was very nervous. But Taapsee was determined to get it perfect. Every time I look back at this film, I realize that change is slow, but it does happen.”

Story That Challenged Mindsets

Pavail portrayed Vikram Sabharwal, a successful husband whose life takes a dramatic turn when his promotion gets affected. In a moment of frustration, he slaps his wife (Taapsee Pannu) at a party, leading to a powerful narrative about respect and emotional abuse in relationships. The film sheds light on how domestic violence is often overlooked and normalized in society.

Career-Defining Role for Pavail Gulatie

Thappad was widely praised for its storytelling, and Pavail’s performance was particularly appreciated. He effectively showcased the transformation of a traditional husband struggling with societal conditioning. His portrayal of Vikram left a lasting impression, making audiences eager to see more of his work in the future.

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