The King of Comedy Returns: PVR Inox to Screen David Dhawan’s Classics Ahead of His Final Film

The curtains are rising once again for the man who taught India how to laugh without inhibitions. Before his upcoming directorial venture, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, hits the big screen, fans are being treated to a grand cinematic celebration. PVR Inox has announced a special film festival dedicated to the “King of Comedy,” David Dhawan, bringing his most iconic hits back to the silver screen.
A Legacy of Laughter: The Screening Lineup
David Dhawan’s filmography is a masterclass in mainstream “masala” entertainment. To honor his decades-long career, PVR Inox is re-releasing five cult classics that defined the 90s and 2000s:
- Aankhen & Raja Babu: The legendary 90s hits starring Govinda, which solidified the actor-director duo as the gold standard of Bollywood comedy.
- Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya & Partner: The blockbuster hits featuring Salman Khan, known for their infectious music and effortless humor.
- Main Tera Hero: The 2014 rom-com that introduced Varun Dhawan in a quintessential “Dhawan-hero” avatar.
“It is an honour for us to host a festival dedicated to Mr. David Dhawan’s remarkable legacy. This festival is a rare opportunity for newer audiences to rediscover these films on the big screen,” says Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist at PVR Inox Ltd.
David Dhawan on the Magic of Cinema
Reflecting on his career, the 74-year-old filmmaker expressed deep gratitude for the initiative. Throughout his journey, Dhawan’s philosophy has remained simple: pure entertainment.
“I have always believed in making films that help people forget their daily struggles,” Dhawan shared in a statement. “To see these films return to the big screen is heartwarming. They were made with love, energy, and instinct.”
For many, this re-release isn’t just about movies; it’s a trip down memory lane, reliving the “madness” of the front-bench whistles and the chart-topping music that once ruled the airwaves.
The End of an Era?
This celebration comes with a bittersweet note. During a recent interaction, David Dhawan hinted that Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai might be his final project as a director.
“I don’t think I should do more. This might be my last film… after this, I’ll just be Varun’s father,” he told ANI. If this holds true, the upcoming release marks the conclusion of one of the most commercially successful careers in Indian cinema history.
What to Expect from ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’
The upcoming film, scheduled for release on June 5, stars Varun Dhawan alongside Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde. Given the director’s track record, audiences are expecting a high-energy romantic comedy filled with vibrant sets, witty dialogues, and foot-tapping songs—a fitting “swan song” for a director who has spent 40 years making India smile.
Why You Should Catch the Festival
If you missed the era of Govinda’s impeccable comic timing or Salman Khan’s peak comedic charm on the big screen, now is your chance. The David Dhawan film festival is more than just a re-run; it is a tribute to a genre of cinema that brought families together in the dark of a movie hall.
Will you be heading to the theatres to relive the ‘Raja Babu’ magic? Let us know your favorite David Dhawan movie in the comments!


