Apna Arastu

Shivam Sharma, Hoshiar Singh, Apna Arastu (2025 The film, a feel-good Punjabi comedy-drama, is as funny as it is motivational. It traces the life of Hoshiar Singh (played by Satinder Sartaaj), a child labeled “unsuitable” for school, coming of age. Fast-forward many years, instead of giving in to bitterness, he returns to the same system that let him down now, as an educator.

Determined to break the mold of uniform education for everyone, Hoshiar takes a job at one of the many failing state-run schools. Before long, his radical teaching methods and evident dedication to his students began to break down the walls of tradition for tradition’s sake and apathy. With support from Kirat (Simi Chahal), a fierce, feisty, nurturing, freeing educator in her own right, Hoshiar takes on the red tape corruption, systematized apathy and archaic dogmas underpinnings with wit, truth-to-Authority-ass-kicking talent and resilience.

With heartfelt performances, emotionally resonant moments and a worldwide sense of the potential of education, this film carves out a unique space in the recent cinematic upstarts of Punjabi cinema. It is set up already to be the big surprise hit movie of the summer, a movie that’s cotton candy on the outside but that still punctures some deeper societal truths.

If you’re looking for impactful films to spark your next movie night that mix comedy with an educational mission, Hoshiar Singh: Apna Arastu should shoot straight to the top of your watchlist. Look for our complete short film review that digs deeper into this wondrous and emotional story