"Welcome" is a 2007 Indian comedy film directed by Anees Bazmee and produced by Firoz Nadiadwala. The film features an ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, Feroz Khan, Paresh Rawal and Mallika Sherawat in lead roles.
The story revolves around two rival gangsters, Uday Shetty (played by Nana Patekar) and Majnu Bhai (played by Anil Kapoor), who try to win the heart of a beautiful woman named Sanjana (played by Katrina Kaif). Meanwhile, a young man named Rajiv (played by Akshay Kumar) arrives in town with the intention of marrying Sanjana, but he soon finds himself caught up in the chaos caused by the two gangsters.
The film was a commercial success at the box office and received mixed reviews from critics. It was praised for its performances and humor, but criticized for its predictable storyline and lack of originality. Despite the mixed reviews, "Welcome" has since become a cult classic and is considered one of the best comedy films of its time in Bollywood.
In addition to the main cast, the film also features notable performances by Paresh Rawal as Dr. Ghunghroo, a marriage counselor who is called upon to help Rajiv and Sanjana, and Mallika Sherawat as Ishika, a con artist who becomes involved with Uday and Majnu.
The film's soundtrack, composed by Anand Raj Anand, Sajid-Wajid, and Himesh Reshammiya, was also well received by audiences and included popular songs such as "Welcome Welcome" and "Uncha Lamba Kad".
Despite its mixed critical reception, "Welcome" went on to become one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of 2007 and has since gained a strong following among fans of the comedy genre. The film's success also led to the production of a sequel, "Welcome Back", which was released in 2015 with many of the same cast members returning to reprise their roles.
"Welcome" is known for its over-the-top humor and slapstick comedy, which has become a trademark of director Anees Bazmee's films. The film's fast-paced and witty screenplay, along with the chemistry between the cast members, helped to create memorable characters and scenes that have become popular among audiences.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the opening sequence, which features the song "Aankhon Mein Teri" and showcases various characters in outrageous situations. The scene has become iconic in Bollywood and is often cited as one of the best opening scenes in Hindi cinema.
Another notable aspect of "Welcome" is its use of multiple storylines, which intersect and collide in unexpected ways throughout the film. The film's complex plot, combined with its lighthearted tone, has made it a popular choice for repeat viewings and has helped to solidify its place in Bollywood comedy history.
"Welcome" is a classic Bollywood comedy that has become a fan favorite and is still watched and enjoyed by audiences today. Its talented cast, memorable characters, and outrageous humor make it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good laugh.
The success of "Welcome" not only spawned a sequel, but it also inspired other filmmakers to make similar films that blended action, romance, and comedy. The film helped to establish a new genre of Bollywood films that were known as "masala movies", which were characterized by their mix of different genres and larger-than-life storytelling.
The success of "Welcome" also solidified the status of its leading man, Akshay Kumar, as one of the most bankable stars in Bollywood. Kumar's performance as Rajiv, the innocent man caught up in the gangster's antics, was widely praised and helped to showcase his range as an actor.
In addition to its box office success, "Welcome" also won several awards and nominations, including a Filmfare Award for Best Comedian for Paresh Rawal's performance as Dr. Ghunghroo. The film's music was also recognized with a nomination for Best Music Director at the same ceremony.
"Welcome" is a classic Bollywood comedy that continues to be enjoyed by audiences today. Its memorable characters, outrageous humor, and iconic scenes have helped to establish it as one of the best comedies in Hindi cinema. The film's success also helped to establish a new genre of Bollywood films that has continued to thrive in the years since its release.
The success of "Welcome" has also had a lasting impact on the careers of its cast and crew. Director Anees Bazmee went on to direct several more successful comedy films, including "Singh Is Kinng" and "No Entry". Lead actor Akshay Kumar continued to establish himself as one of the top stars in Bollywood and went on to star in many more successful films.
"Welcome" has also remained popular with audiences thanks to its continued availability on streaming services and cable TV. Its memorable scenes and quotable dialogues have been referenced and parodied in various media, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone in Indian popular culture.
In summary, "Welcome" is a film that has become a classic in Bollywood comedy history. Its outrageous humor, memorable characters, and iconic scenes have made it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The film's success also helped to establish a new genre of Bollywood films that has continued to thrive in the years since its release.