Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari’s upcoming musical brings back the classic Rajshri formula but its first song has already triggered a debate about whether the formula still works in 2026
The title track of Yeh Prem Mol Liya has arrived but instead of generating the nostalgia and excitement the makers were hoping for.. it has sparked a very different conversation online.
A section of viewers feels that the song takes the film back to an era of Bollywood has largely moved beyond. The elaborate family celebrations, traditional rituals, long musical sequences and old school romance have prompted an obvious question: Will today’s theatrical audience actually pay to experience this kind of family drama on the big screen?
Directed by Sooraj R. Barjatya, Yeh Prem Mol Liya stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari and is scheduled to release on November 27, 2026.
The film marks Barjatya’s return to the musical family drama space with Himesh Reshammiya composing the soundtrack.
The newly released title track embraces everything audiences associate with Barjatya’s cinema weddings, family gatherings, rituals, romance and colourful celebrations.
The song also brings Chhath into the film’s cultural setting, further strengthening its traditional identity. And that is exactly where the debate begins.
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Nostalgia Or A Formula That Has Lost Its Time?
There is nothing inherently wrong with making a traditional family entertainer. Barjatya built most recognisable brands around that very idea with films such as Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Hum Saath Saath Hain and Vivah but the audience has changed.
Modern theatrical viewers increasingly look for a reason to spend money on a big screen experience. A strong concept, spectacular presentation, fresh storytelling or an emotional hook can create that urgency.
The first song of Yeh Prem Mol Liya, however, has left some viewers feeling that the film is simply recreating the visual language of an earlier generation.
Some reactions have compared its presentation to a lavish television family serial from the late 1990s or early 2000s.
The Music Has A Lot To Prove?
Music will play a particularly important role in Yeh Prem Mol Liya because songs and celebrations form such a major part of Barjatya’s storytelling.
The collaboration with Himesh Reshammiya also carries its own nostalgia. The composer previously worked with Barjatya on Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and their reunion after more than a decade naturally created curiosity.
The title track features vocals by Shreya Ghoshal and Nihal Tauro, with lyrics by Kumaar and music by Reshammiya.
A five minute celebration sequence can become a memorable theatrical moment when the music grabs the audience but when the song fails to connect, the same sequence can feel unnecessarily long.
Ayushmann Khurrana Has A Bigger Challenge Than It Looks
He plays Prem, a name that carries enormous weight in Barjatya’s filmography. For decades, the name has represented a particular kind of Hindi film hero – simple, romantic, family oriented and emotionally sincere.
Sharvari could play an equally important role in that equation. Her presence gives Barjatya a younger leading face and potentially allows the film to connect his traditional cinematic world with a newer generation.
Can ‘Yeh Prem Mol Liya’ Still Change The Conversation?
The film still has plenty of time before its November 27 release and the promotional campaign can completely change audience perception.
The supporting cast also includes established names such as Anupam Kher, Seema Pahwa, Supriya Pathak and Saumya Tandon giving the film a strong ensemble.
Now the trailer needs to prove that Yeh Prem Mol Liya belongs in 2026… FLOP BEFORE RELEASE..?!
