Promissory note issue

Sir, I gave 1.5 lakhs to one person with writing promissory note. He was not giving any reply and also not repay single rupee from 1.5 years. He told he was unable to repay the debt and do what you can do. I ask suggestions to my friends and colleagues they told file a civil case is time & money waste process. If file the case it was takes more time and also not sure to get the amount. So what i can do? how can i proceed? if i file a case can i get my money back. please kindly suggest