Anupam Kher’s directorial venture, Tanvi—The Great has struck a powerful emotional chord with audiences across the country — and more meaningfully, with members of India’s medical and neurodiversity communities, who are praising the film for its authentic, heartfelt portrayal of autism.
Among the film’s most moving endorsements is one by Dr. Shuvendu Sen, a respected physician, educator and award-winning author known for his work in neurodevelopment and compassionate medicine. In a widely circulated personal blog, Dr. Sen reflected:
“Tanvi The Great surprised me… pleasantly. A movie on a human disorder can only become a message when the disorder itself is respected. And it is this very respect given to a girl with a difference that signaled the exotic and unique nature of this film. For a spectrum as sensitive as autism, only an incredibly sensitive artiste like Anupam Kher can generate such a powerful portrayal.”
His words echo what many caregivers and practitioners have felt — that the film treats the subject of autism not with dramatic overreach, but with sincerity, gentleness and emotional precision.
Dr. Jaswinder Singh, President of World Bio Cares Health Organization, recently facilitated a special screening in Jalandhar for children with developmental and speech disorders. “Thousands of children suffering from autism spectrum and speech disorders, ADHD etc… can explore infinite possibilities if their condition is viewed anew from a different perspective,” he said, applauding the film for inspiring hope.
A widely appreciated IMDb user review echoed the sentiments of many families and therapists, stating: “Tanvi—The Great is what cinema should be: honest, healing and heartfelt. The film treats autism not as a ‘condition’ but as a perspective, and that’s rare.”
Professionals and parents alike have shared how the film’s portrayal of sensory sensitivity, emotional resilience and non-verbal expression resonates deeply. Without falling into stereotype or oversimplification, the story foregrounds the lived emotional world of someone on the autism spectrum with care and conviction.
Responding to the praise, Anupam Kher shared: “I’m truly grateful for the love and encouragement coming our way. What’s most heartening is to see the medical community and families connected to the autism spectrum respond so warmly to the film. That kind of affirmation means everything to us.”
Tanvi—The Great follows the inspirational journey of a young autistic woman determined to fulfill her late father’s dream of saluting the Indian flag at Siachen. Inspired by true events, the film stars Shubhangi Dutt in a breakout role, supported by Pallavi Joshi, Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff and Arvind Swamy. The film is directed by Anupam Kher, with music by Oscar-winning composer M.M. Keeravani.
