Loving dads, hating dads, green-flag dads, egotistical dads, abusive dads—the mainstream Hindi film space has never been short of memorable portrayals of fatherhood. But when Raat Jawaan Hai landed in our midst recently, the OTT comedy’s treatment of three childhood buddies navigating life as young parents—the worries, joys, follies and learnings—was truly refreshing. The Sumeet Vyas-directed show also zooms in on a young dad (Barun Sobti) taking on full-time fatherhood as his wife (Hasleen Kaur) assumes breadwinner duties. Much like his previous characters, Sobti imbues the largely unflappable, happy-camper Avinash with the right blend of doting and dedicated. And in the process, he leaves viewers with takeaways that might elude the grasp of many. We list a few here.
Fathers can be mothers
Avinash often takes on the role of comforting Rahi during late-night crying spells. Instead of waking his wife (Hasleen Kaur), he gently rocks and soothes the baby himself. This showcases his commitment towards their relationship and understanding that these responsibilities can strengthen the bond between father and child.
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Dad and diapers, a match made in heaven
In many cultures around the world, diaper duty is seen as the mother’s area of jurisdiction. But in Raat Jawaan Hai, Avinash is seen taking to it without giving into those patriarchal mores. In one memorable scene, he even does it with a bit of humour, as he talks to Rahi playfully as he changes her diaper. The easygoing nature of this portrayal provides a heartwarming assertion that stepping up—and enjoying parenting—is essential.
Improvise, adapt, overcome—don't whine
In the second episode of the show, when the trio has finally planned a movie night, it all runs the risk of going for a toss. With Avinash waiting for his friends to pick him up, the baby falls asleep. The plan could easily go kaput but dad and his friends decide to innovate. They catch a movie at his place, with Avinash finding the time to grab a drink as he chills on the balcony and keeps a close watch over Rahi through a CCTV camera, as she sleeps peacefully. This goes on to show that though raising children may sometimes be hugely inconvenient, it shouldn’t be any more so for any one parent. Fatherhood can be fun.
You’re not just a doting dad. You’re a coparent and, sometimes, a spouse
In episode three, when Rahi gets cranky during a car ride, Priya asks Avinash to give her candy. Avinash casually refuses, indicating the parents’ mutual understanding that the baby is not to be fed sugar. The lesson that this contains is that being a dad doesn’t come with unlimited spoiling rights, no matter how much you love your child (or your freedom). Avinash respects that agreement, not only like a truly responsible parent, but a committed spouse.