ABCD – American Born Confused Desi

ABCD: American Born Confused Desi is a 2019 Indian Telugu-language comedy drama directed by Sanjeev Reddy and produced by Madhura Sreedhar Reddy. It stars Allu Sirish and Rukshar Dhillon. A remake of the Malayalam film of the same name starring Dulquer Salmaan, it was released on 17 May 2019 to mixed reviews.

Title

The phrase “American-born confused desi” describes people of Indian origin born in America who struggle to balance their heritage with the majority American culture.

Story

Aravind, known as Avi, the son of a New York millionaire, and his cousin Bhasha lead a pampered life of fast cars and parties. Avi’s father sends them to India, telling them it is a holiday, and then blocks their credit cards. That forces them to live in poverty in Andhra Pradesh, where, unexpectedly, they become famous.

Music

Judah Sandhy composed the soundtrack, with lyrics by Bhaskarabhatla, Krishna Kanth and Tirupathi Jaavana.

Release

The film opened in theatres on 17 May 2019. A Hindi dubbed version premiered on the Dhinchaak channel in early 2021.

Reception

The New Indian Express gave it 3 out of 5 but felt it lacked emotional depth and pace. The Times of India gave it 2.5 and recommended it as a light entertainer for viewers with no expectations. The Hans India, also at 2.5, said the director had added fresh comedy to the original. Deccan Chronicle called it a poor remake saved only by Vennela Kishore. Firstpost found it predictable and sloppily written, and The Indian Express gave it 1 out of 5.

Sources: Wikipedia and Wikidata.