Where to watch Ventilator (2016)

Story

When a beloved family elder suddenly falls into a coma days before Ganesh Chaturthi, the sprawling Kamerkar family converges at a Mumbai hospital. As relatives gather to support their ailing uncle, the waiting room becomes a stage for long-buried tensions and unspoken conflicts. Filmmaker Raja returns from the city to reconnect with his estranged father, while his cousin Prasanna struggles with his own strained relationship with the patriarch. Through moments of humor and heartbreak, the family confronts misunderstandings, discovers hidden truths about their bonds, and learns what truly matters in the face of mortality.

Why watch

• Ashutosh Gowariker's remarkable acting return after 18 years away from cinema.
• Explores complex family dynamics with both humor and emotional depth.
• Celebrates the value of elder family members and intergenerational bonds.

Good for: Families seeking a thoughtful drama that balances comedy with genuine emotion; suitable for all ages given the U certificate.

About the film

Written and directed by Rajesh Mapuskar, this 2016 Marathi comedy-drama was produced by Priyanka Chopra under Purple Pebble Pictures. The ensemble cast features Ashutosh Gowariker, Jitendra Joshi, Sulabha Arya, and Sukanya Kulkarni. Music by Rohan-Rohan, cinematography by Savita Singh, and editing by Rameshwar S. Bhagat. Released on November 4, 2016. The film won three National Film Awards including Best Director and Best Editing.

Languages

Available in Marathi with English subtitles.

Sources: Apple TV, IMDb, Wikipedia, letterboxd.com (checked 02 Oct 2026)