“OMG 2” Overwhelms with Akshay Kumar and Pankaj Tripathi’s Dynamic Duo

Incorporating Hinduism and Sex Education: Exploring the Courtroom Dramas of Manoj Bajpayee and Pankaj Tripathi

Introduction

In a peculiar twist of fate, Manoj Bajpayee and Pankaj Tripathi, famous for their roles as arch-enemies in the 2012 film “Gangs of Wasseypur,” have both starred in recent courtroom dramas that delve into Hindu mythology to address societal issues. Bajpayee’s film, “Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai,” and Tripathi’s film, “OMG 2,” employ similar tactics of invoking Hinduism to bring justice to characters who have been wronged. However, Tripathi’s portrayal adds a comedic touch, distinguishing his character from Bajpayee’s serious approach.

The Plot and Themes

“OMG 2” serves as a sequel to the 2012 film “OMG – Oh My God!,” which satirized the hypocrisy of organized religion. The sequel shifts its focus to the topic of sex education in schools, resulting in the film seeking a UA (Universal Adult) certificate. However, the censor board ordered multiple changes, ultimately granting the film an “A” (Adult) rating. Consequently, the character played by Akshay Kumar, originally conceived as Lord Shiva, was modified to a “messenger” of God.

The story revolves around the protagonist Kanti Sharan Mudgal, played by Pankaj Tripathi, a devout shopkeeper at a Hindu Shiva temple in Ujjain. When his son, Vivek, faces humiliation and online bullying after discovering masturbation, Kanti sues his son’s school and all those who led him astray. The courtroom scenes depict Kanti’s progressively evolving arguments, drawing from ancient texts, which emphasize the significance of sex and sexual well-being in Indian society.

Exploring Hinduism and Liberality

“OMG 2” utilizes Hinduism liberally to argue for the inherent liberalism within the religion. Akshay Kumar’s character embraces the role of a divine emissary, resembling Shiva with a white bull accompanying him. The film frequently showcases symbols of Hinduism, such as tridents, Shiva lingams, and portraits of gods. Kanti transforms the courtroom into a symbolic temple, challenging traditional norms. Additionally, the film’s characters and dialogues make explicit references to sexual desire and pleasure, highlighting the importance of sex education.

However, the film also exhibits caution and omission. While it proudly refers to an open and progressive past in Hindu philosophy, it fails to acknowledge references to homosexuality in ancient Indian texts. This selective approach to religious inclusivity may raise eyebrows among progressive viewers.

An Appraisal and Critique

Despite its flaws, “OMG 2” presents thought-provoking ideas and manages to balance moments of comedy with a broader message. Tripathi’s performance blends cheerfulness and mild annoyance, captivating the audience with his charm. Director Amit Rai succeeds in addressing the taboo topic of sex education without overwhelming the film with heaviness.

Critically, the film could have benefited from improved cinematography, editing, and CGI. Additionally, its Macaulay-bashing towards the end, a predictable trope, hinders a nuanced exploration of the flaws within Indian society. Nevertheless, Geeta Agarwal Sharma shines as Kanti’s easily unnerved wife, and Kumar’s occasional comedic moments further enhance the overall viewing experience.

Conclusion and Recommendations

“OMG 2” delves into the intersection of Hindu mythology, sex education, and social justice, offering a unique perspective on these topics. Although there are areas of improvement, the film succeeds in providing comedy alongside its exploration of larger societal issues.

For those interested in thought-provoking cinema that challenges traditional norms and emphasizes the importance of sex education, “OMG 2” is certainly worth considering. However, it is advisable to approach the film with an understanding of its limitations, particularly regarding its portrayal of Hinduism and the selectivity of its references to ancient Indian texts.