Film –The 2017 film Bareilly Ki Barfi has completed nine years since it arrived in cinemas, yet its appeal among audiences continues. Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, the film combined humour, romance and small-town storytelling with characters that felt familiar and grounded. For Kriti Sanon, who played the central character Bitti Mishra, the movie also became an important turning point in her career.
A Role That Showcased Kriti Sanon’s Acting
Bitti was unlike many conventional Hindi film heroines of the time. She was outspoken, independent-minded and comfortable with her own choices. Set in Bareilly, the story followed her as she navigated relationships, family expectations and an unexpected romantic situation.
For Sanon, the role offered an opportunity to move beyond being recognised simply as a leading actor in commercial films. Bitti’s lively personality and straightforward nature allowed her to explore a more relaxed and rooted style of performance. The character also connected her with audiences through a distinctly Indian small-town setting.
Why The Film Remains Special
Looking back at the film, Sanon has described Bareilly Ki Barfi as one of the projects that gave her the opportunity to demonstrate her acting abilities more fully. She has said that certain roles provide performers with the chance to make their work visible and receive appreciation from audiences.
That recognition made the film particularly meaningful for her. Rather than viewing it only as another addition to her filmography, Sanon considers it part of her development as an actor. The response to her performance helped establish her ability to handle characters that depended on personality, timing and emotional expression.
Bitti Became A Career Milestone
Sanon has consistently spoken about wanting to improve with every film she takes on. For her, professional growth has meant choosing different kinds of characters and assessing whether audiences can see a change in her performances.
Bitti Mishra became one of the early examples of that approach. The character was spirited without being overly polished, and her everyday surroundings played an important part in the film’s identity. Sanon’s performance worked within that setting while giving Bitti enough individuality to stand out.
Nine Years Later, The Film Still Resonates
Bareilly Ki Barfi remains remembered not only because of its box-office and critical success, but also because of the performances that helped give the story its distinct character. Alongside Sanon, the film featured Ayushmann Khurrana and Rajkummar Rao in key roles, creating a central trio that became one of its major attractions.
As the film completes nine years, its place in Sanon’s career remains significant. Bitti Mishra gave her a character through which audiences could see another dimension of her acting, while the film itself continues to be regarded as a memorable example of contemporary Hindi cinema rooted in a small-town setting.
For Sanon, the lasting importance of Bareilly Ki Barfi lies in the opportunity it provided to grow, perform and earn recognition for her work. Nine years after its release, the film continues to mark an important chapter in her journey as an actor.