Subash Pictures' Chhalia is an offbeat film which courageously tackles a serious problem. The picture narrates the pathetic tale of an unfortunate Hindu girl who is left behind in Pakistan during the partition riots and who, on her arrival in India, finds herself disowned by her near and dear ones, including her husband.

The screenplay is notable for a rich variety of interesting characters, who provide a kaleidoscope view of humanity. Besides the unfortunate young heroine, there is a Pathan a man of honour and courage, who protects the Hindu girl at the risk of his life; a hidebound husband who denies shelter and sympathy to his abducted wife; a father who holds his daughter's misfortune against her; a mother who is torn between her obedience to her husband and her love for her daughter; and a footloose youth with the reputation of a ruffian who reveals his human side by making many sacrifices for the sake of a girl he loves in vain.

Despite its occasional reliance on cliches and coincidences and misplaced emphasis, the picture is rich in dramatic values. Inder Raj Anand, who wrote the screenplay and dialogue, deserves praise for his work. Manmohan Desai's direction is competent.
The music by Kalyanji-Anandji is catchy and delightful. It is one of the major attractions of the film. Qamar Jalalabadi's lyrics contribute greatly to the pleasant quality of the songs.

The performances of Raj Kapoor and Nutan are an outstanding feature of the film. In the title role of the kind-hearted vagabond, Raj Kapoor gives an outstanding performance and proves his versatility by being at home in both light and dramatic moments. As the unfortunate girl disowned by her relatives for no fault of hers, Nutan delivers a superb and memorable portrayal. Rehman, as the husband who cannot bring himself to take his abducted wife back, gives a good account of himself. As the Pathan, Pran infuses life and colour into his role. In the supporting cast, Shobhana Samarth and the juvenile artiste Raja are impressive.