Hi Nanna |top| (8K)
The narrative revolves around , a talented celebrity photographer and single father living in Mumbai. He dedicates his life to his six-year-old daughter, Mahi , who suffers from cystic fibrosis—a life-threatening genetic disorder. Viraj shields Mahi from the truth about her mother, promising to reveal her story only if Mahi tops her school exams.
Initially referred to by the working title "Nani 30," the project generated significant buzz from its earliest announcements. On July 13, 2023, the makers officially unveiled the title, Hi Nanna , accompanied by a heartwarming first-look poster. The poster perfectly captured the film's essence: Nani, as a doting father, carries a little girl on his shoulders while Mrunal Thakur looks on, catching a flying kiss from the child. The title is a direct nod to the film's central narrative, which is narrated from the perspective of a child addressing her father. The anticipation only grew as the release date approached, with audiences eager to see the "Natural Star" Nani in the role of a father, a space he had explored in critically acclaimed films like Jersey .
★★★★☆ (4/5)
The story is set in motion when Mahi runs away from home. She is saved from a near accident by a kind stranger named Yashna (Mrunal Thakur). At Mahi’s urging, Yashna tricks Viraj into joining them for lunch, where they force him to finally tell the story of his past love, "Varsha". The narrative then unfolds in a poignant flashback set in the scenic hill station of Coonoor. Viraj, then a struggling photographer, meets and falls in love with the free-spirited Varsha.
Hi Nanna thrives on the powerful performances of its lead actors, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Hi Nanna
Known affectionately as the "Natural Star" of Telugu cinema, Nani delivers an incredibly nuanced performance. He portrays Viraj with a delicate balance of vulnerability, restraint, and fierce parental love. Nani seamlessly transitions from a carefree youth in love to a exhausted, anxious father fighting for his daughter's survival. Mrunal Thakur as Yashna / Varsha
The phrase "Hi Nanna" is believed to have originated in the 1990s, primarily among English-speaking communities. Its exact etymology is unclear, but it's thought to have emerged as a casual, affectionate way to greet someone, particularly an older adult or a loved one. Over time, "Hi Nanna" gained popularity through various channels, including social media, text messages, and everyday conversations.
: Many viewers connect with the film's message that if something is "meant to be," it will happen through the universe's timing, even when all hope feels lost. Notable Narrative Elements
The 2023 Telugu film is a soul-stirring family drama that masterfully explores the intricate layers of fatherhood, love, and second chances. Directed by debutant Shouryuv and starring Nani and Mrunal Thakur , the film has resonated with global audiences for its emotional depth and aesthetic storytelling. Plot Overview: A Tale of Memories and Milestones The narrative revolves around , a talented celebrity
The story centers on (Nani), a professional photographer and single father living in Mumbai with his chronically ill daughter, Mahi (Kiara Khanna).
On the surface, it’s about a single father (Nani) and his six-year-old daughter, Mahi. But beneath that, it’s a delicate, aching puzzle box of memory, grief, and second chances.
Hi Nanna was a resounding success, grossing over ₹75 crore at the box office. It was lauded by critics for its emotional depth and honest storytelling. Mrunal Thakur's performance as Yashna was particularly noted for helping her solidify her position as a versatile pan-Indian actress.
At its heart, Hi Nanna is an emotional exploration of love, loss, and the bond between a father and his daughter. The story revolves around Viraj (Nani), a doting single father raising his six-year-old daughter, Mahi (Kiara Khanna). Mahi suffers from a chronic respiratory condition, and her one wish is to know the story of her mother—a topic Viraj has always avoided. Initially referred to by the working title "Nani
When Mahi asks to hear the story, Viraj agrees on the condition that she must take her medicines without fuss. What unfolds is a narrative within a narrative, shifting between the present and a vibrant past in Coonoor. The story introduces us to Varsha (Mrunal Thakur), the woman who captured Viraj’s heart, and the tragic circumstances that led to their separation.
Cinematographers Sanu John Varughese and B. Ajaneesh Loknath (music) create an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. The scenic beauty of Coonoor contrasts beautifully with the urban setting of Mumbai. The soundtrack, particularly songs like "Samayama" and "O Rendu Prema Meghaalila," is integral to the narrative, elevating the emotional beats.
One spring evening, she added a new treasure: a folded note left by someone on the park bench where she fed the pigeons. The note said, in four tidy words: "Look up at midnight." Curious, she kept the paper and waited.
The story follows Viraj (), a professional photographer and a devoted single father to his young daughter, Mahi ( Kiara Khanna ). Mahi suffers from cystic fibrosis, a condition that makes her life fragile but her spirit vibrant. The core of the narrative revolves around Mahi’s curiosity about her mother, a topic Viraj has long kept veiled in mystery.