Skip to content
What's After the Movie?
Romantic drama

Dada (2023): Cast, Ratings, Box Office & Plot

Dada (2023) movie poster

Dada is a 2023 romantic drama directed by Ganesh K. Babu, starring Kavin Raj as Manikandan, Aparna Das and K. Bhagyaraj. It runs 2 hours 15 minutes and earned $22,125 worldwide on a $30 million budget. Its Echo Score is 75/100.

worldwide gross
$22.1K
Echo Score
75
budget
$30M
Loading streaming availability…
Dada (2023) movie poster
Released
Runtime
2h 15m (135 min)
Director
Ganesh K. Babu
Genres
Drama , Romance , Comedy
Original language
Tamil
Budget
$30M
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Dada About?

The premise of Dada without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.

Appa Manikandan and Sindhu, college students, unexpectedly become parents. Circumstances pull them apart, leaving Manikandan to raise their son, Adhithya, on his own. The film follows their heartwarming and challenging journey as a father and son, navigating life's obstacles and forging a unique bond through adversity.

Dada Themes & Keywords

· 2 tags
  • father
  • couple
Loading streaming availability…
Cast & crew

Dada Cast & Characters

Kavin Raj leads the cast as Manikandan, with Aparna Das as Sindhu and K. Bhagyaraj as Manikandan's father. Directed by Ganesh K. Babu; 11 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Dada

· 7 more
Ratings

Dada Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 75/100, strongest in sensory experience (80) and weakest in story & flow (68).

75 /100

Dada Echo Score Breakdown

Dada presents a heartfelt, feel‑good drama centered on single‑fatherhood that resonated with many viewers while drawing criticism for pacing in the latter half. The film’s direction, performances, and soundtrack were repeatedly highlighted as strengths, whereas the stretched second half and occasional clichés were noted as drawbacks. This blend of praise and reservation yields a solid, though not outstanding, overall reception.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 78

    In terms of art and craft, Dada benefits from competent direction and technically clean execution. Reviewers praised the camera work, editing rhythm, and a soundtrack that integrates smoothly with visual storytelling, while noting a brief lag at the film’s opening. Some criticism pointed to a less focused second half, yet the overall craftsmanship remains solid.

  • Character & Emotion 75

    When it comes to character and emotion, the lead performances received strong approval. Kavin and Aparna’s nuanced portrayals and on‑screen chemistry were highlighted as the film’s primary strength, with supporting actors also noted for subtlety. A minority of comments mentioned shallow character development and occasional stereotypical dialogue, but the overall emotional resonance remains effective.

  • Story & Flow 68

    In terms of story and flow, Dada offers a simple, emotionally driven narrative that many found relatable. The premise of an unexpected pregnancy and single‑father responsibility was praised for its sincerity, while the first half’s measured pacing was appreciated. Conversely, several viewers cited a stretched second half, clichéd moments, and uneven pacing that weakened overall momentum.

  • Sensory Experience 80

    The sensory experience is anchored by a notably effective soundtrack that many reviewers described as magical and soulful. Composer Jen Martin’s compositions, especially the track “Pogathey,” were cited as enhancing emotional beats, while sound design complemented the intimate scenes without overwhelming them. Visual style received modest commendation, leading to an overall positive sensory impression.

  • Rewatch Factor 72

    The rewatch factor is bolstered by the film’s emotional core and memorable moments. Several viewers reported watching the movie multiple times, noting that the heartfelt scenes and music retain their impact on subsequent viewings. Nonetheless, criticisms of pacing and predictable plot points suggest the film may not sustain repeated enthusiasm for all audiences.

Plot

Dada Plot Summary

What happens in Dada from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 12 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 2-minute read.

Spoilers ahead

Kavin Raj and Aparna Das, final-year college students, are in a relationship that feels hopeful at first but soon faces a serious test. When Sindhu becomes pregnant, their plans shift dramatically, and they confront a future neither of them anticipated. Mani asks Sindhu to consider an abortion, but she refuses, and the two decide to rent a modest house to navigate the uncertain road ahead.

Full summary

The whole story of Dada, scene by scene

Read the full summary
Box office

Dada Box Office & Budget

Dada grossed $22,125 worldwide on a $30 million budget.

2023 box office

Worldwide gross

$22.1K

International
$22.1K
Budget
$30M
Quiz

How Well Do You Know Dada?

10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.

Question 1 of 10

  1. Question 1: not answered
  2. Question 2: not answered
  3. Question 3: not answered
  4. Question 4: not answered
  5. Question 5: not answered
  6. Question 6: not answered
  7. Question 7: not answered
  8. Question 8: not answered
  9. Question 9: not answered
  10. Question 10: not answered

What is the name Mani gives to the baby after raising him as a single parent?

Details

Dada Also Known As

6 alternative titles, including “Da Da” and “Daadaa”.

Also known as
  • Da Da
  • Daadaa
  • Daa Daa
  • Papa
  • Pa...Pa...
  • Pa Pa

Seen Dada?

FAQ

Dada FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, post-credit scenes and language of Dada, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Dada?

Dada runs 2 hours 15 minutes (135 minutes).

When was Dada released?

Dada was released on February 10, 2023.

Who directed Dada?

Dada was directed by Ganesh K. Babu.

Who is in the cast of Dada?

Dada stars Kavin Raj as Manikandan, Aparna Das as Sindhu and K. Bhagyaraj as Manikandan's father, among 11 credited actors.

How much did Dada make at the box office?

Dada grossed $22,125 worldwide on a budget of $30 million.

Does Dada have a post-credit scene?

No. Dada has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Dada in?

The original language of Dada is Tamil.

Coming soon to your phone

The Plot Explained Movie Summary App

From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.

Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app