Mrs. Bakshi (played by Guddi Maruti) believes Vijay Mathew (Anupam Kher) has taken his own life after seeing him jump into the water. The entire community mourns, thinking he’s gone for good. At a church service, Vijay’s lifelong friend, Fali (Chunky Pandey), recounts Vijay’s vibrant past, including his three-time win in the Garba Nights Dance competition. But Vijay isn’t dead – he’s simply lying low, staying with a friend. Mrs. Bakshi, it turns out, misinterpreted the whole situation.

When Vijay discovers Fali’s record of his achievements, he’s upset, especially about a forgotten bronze medal in swimming at the National Swimming Championship. Attempting to document more of his accomplishments, he realizes there’s little else to list. Meanwhile, Aditya (Mihir Ahuja), a younger man in the neighborhood, is preparing for a triathlon that involves a grueling combination of swimming, cycling, and running. Determined to leave a lasting impression, Vijay decides to join this triathlon, hoping to be remembered for something remarkable.

A Refreshing Approach to Storytelling and Direction

In an industry often obsessed with box office numbers, Vijay 69 delivers a meaningful narrative that doesn’t rely on a lavish budget. Director Akshay Roy, who crafted the story, screenplay, and dialogues, provides a fresh, heartfelt perspective on themes like friendship, the search for self-worth, and the desire for companionship in later years. Each scene serves to advance Vijay’s journey, portraying his need to rediscover his identity and his desire to leave a legacy.

Powerful Dialogues That Strike a Chord

The dialogue is one of the film’s strongest aspects. Vijay’s contemplations about his life, especially during a scene where he lies in a coffin, are poignant. The film’s dialogues, like “If I am 69, should I stop dreaming?” and “If I am 69, should I just take my meds, sleep, and wait to die?” challenge age stereotypes and serve as a reminder that dreams don’t have an expiration date. Roy’s portrayal of Vijay is realistic, depicting the limitations that come with age while celebrating the drive to push through them.

Anupam Kher’s Dedication Shines

Anupam Kher went the extra mile, learning to swim for his role, and his commitment to the character shines through. At 69 himself, he brings authenticity to Vijay’s journey, making his triumphs feel both raw and relatable. The emotional payoff when he crosses the finish line resonates deeply.

Chunky Pandey, portraying Fali, occasionally falters with his Parsi accent, yet his portrayal of a steadfast friend overshadows this minor flaw. Guddi Maruti’s on-screen presence leaves an impact, while Sulagna Panigrahi as Vijay’s daughter and Mihir Ahuja as his young rival deliver noteworthy performances. Brajesh Hirjee, who plays the coach, could have been given more screen time to further enrich the narrative.

Vijay 69 is a touching film that explores the idea that life’s purpose can be rediscovered at any age. Through humor, heart, and some incredible performances, the film leaves audiences feeling inspired, showing that no matter our age, our dreams are worth pursuing.