Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - Directed by Suresh Triveni, Maa Behen begins with an intriguing premise—a dead body in a living room and three women scrambling to deal with the aftermath. However, beneath its comic-thriller setup lies a heartfelt story about family, societal judgment and the bonds between women.

The film follows Rekha, played by Madhuri Dixit, a single mother who summons her daughters Jaya and Sushma in the middle of the night after discovering their neighbour Gupta, portrayed by Ravi Kishan, dead inside her home. What unfolds is a chaotic yet engaging attempt by the trio to navigate the unexpected crisis. One of the film's strongest aspects is its world-building. Triveni carefully crafts a small-town setting where even minor details, such as Rekha's sleeveless blouses, become subjects of gossip, reflecting the social pressures and judgments women routinely face. As the story progresses, Maa Behen moves beyond its mystery-comedy framework. Rather than exposing hidden villains, the narrative challenges assumptions and stereotypes, revealing how quickly society labels and misunderstands people. This shift gives the film an emotional depth that elevates it above a conventional comic thriller.

Madhuri Dixit delivers a nuanced performance as Rekha, effortlessly blending charm, vulnerability and resilience. The script cleverly turns the actress's celebrated beauty into a source of scrutiny for her character, adding another layer to the film's commentary on societal expectations. Triptii Dimri impresses as a woman struggling to contain years of pent-up emotions, while Dhaarna Durga holds her own alongside seasoned performers. A particularly memorable sequence arrives when the three women finally let their emotional walls down and engage in an honest conversation, creating one of the film's most impactful moments. The music by Akashdeep Sengupta complements the narrative effectively, enhancing both the lighter and more emotional beats of the story.

While the climax may not leave a lasting impression, Maa Behen succeeds through its sincere storytelling, strong performances and thoughtful observations about family and society. More interested in its characters than its mystery, the film delivers warmth, humour and emotional resonance, making it a worthwhile watch. If a sequel brings audiences back to the lives of these three women, it would certainly be welcome.