As an artist, how did you deal with the shift in psyche, especially while being in and out of a character that has physical limitations, and a completely different personality?

Like I mentioned, my portions were shot while I standing inside a one and a half feet deep pit. There were also boxes, which would move wherever I went. So personally, I never felt short, except while standing next to Anushka or Katrina (laughs). On a serious note, Anushka's character even has a line - 'Relationship barabari ka hoga', which is even a part of the trailer. Because technically, we are the same height in the film, as she is seated on her digitally controlled chair. I never felt any difference, except for a small fact that it was like walking two steps below. 

What about the sets, costumes and props? How did you work around those, considering you could actually see the final look post structural changes?

I'll tell you what was difficult. A lot of times, we would shoot a scene, and after 3-4 months while watching the structure change, we think it looks really good. Sometimes, it would look worse, because when he becomes small, everything feels different. In fact, some scenes even had to be re-shot. If I did something with my own style, it looked wrong on a shorter person. It's a little difficult to describe, but if you notice the romantic track (Mere Naam Tu), his movements are a little child like. Like chest thumps and jumps. He can't do tight moves, so even the choreography had to be a little loose. It was during the look test that I did around 2 and a half years back, that I noticed, something just wasn't right. Even the props were bigger for me. For instance, if it's an iPhone 8 for everyone, then that's X for me. If you read a normal book, mine is a bit bigger. Shirt - trouser fittings had to be kept in mind. We also wanted him to have a slight paunch, which isn't too prominent, but at the same time, he should look attractive. So, those elements had to be kept in mind.

We had to buy a machine called Techno Dolly, and have it sent from overseas. It's actually used for shots in Games of Thrones as well

Tell us a little about the inclusion of aeronautics in the film. Were portions of the film shot in NASA?

Well, there is no mention of NASA as such. We have built our own space research centre. Personalisation was necessary, as NASA only allows one film to use their name per year, and they already had 'First Man'. So, we become the second one. However, we did shoot some scenes there, and we had requested if another name can be used. Especially because we have taken certain cinematic liberties in the film. So, the permissions were necessary.  

We are making the biggest and largest number of films in a year. We assume that we are the best film makers in the world

What are your thoughts of the use of VFX in Hindi films. Do you think it needs a better push in the Indian film industry, with the kind of genres we are experimenting with today?

VFX has to be much more prominent in Hindi films, for cinema to have better story telling. We are making the biggest and largest number of films in a year. We assume that we are the best film makers in the world. But, I think the new influx of audience that will come in the future, that is kids who are now 7-8 years old, they will not be very forgiving about the cinematic sound and visual experience. They are used to watching the latest films and songs in full HD on phones or computers. Some beautiful films with a great overall visual experience have released recently, and have been accepted by the audience. It is only a matter of time that the numbers will increase. These children will grow up watching such films, even in small towns, thanks to the growing connectivity we have today. In the future, they won't accept excuses like, "Arey, Hindi film main kuch bhi chalta hai." That excuse is fine for us, and mine would be the last generation, who would see a tacky film and say - But still, this is the first for India (laughs). 

Go on....

In fact, you are still younger. I was telling someone, how it was 15 years ago that I first went to a multiplex. But, now I am used to that recliner chair, big screens, and flavoured popcorns. But when I was growing up, cinema halls were very rundown, at least most of them. Now, since I am used to the multiplex experience, if you take me back to the old hall, I might not be comfortable. Even if it's another country, I would be like - Arey, yeh kahan aa gaye. Mujhe picture nahi dekhni. So, kids are already used to that world. And when I speak of VFX, it's not just films like Baahubali. There is so much more to VFX than that. It can be used even for the smallest of films, like Zodiac in Hollywood, which is made over a period of 15-20 days. A lot of VFX is used for simple details - like speed, cars, camera movements, and it can't be pinpointed specifically. So, I feel film makers should come forward and make use of this technology to enhance the overall movie experience.

Film makers should come forward and make use of technology to enhance the overall movie experience

When it comes to the use of technology, you and team Red Chillies VFX have always taken things a notch above. But, technology often comes with its own set of challenges. What were some of the hurdles that you came across during the making of this film, and how did you over come it?

While shooting for the track with Salman (Khan), and there are a few scenes as well, where we could not get the moving shots right. The film became very static, as you had to shoot five times - background, actors, crowd among others. So, the layering became difficult. Eventually, we had to buy a machine called Techno Dolly, and have it sent from USA. It's actually used for shots in Games of Thrones as well. But, buying a machine wasn't enough, and so, we had to get a person who could perfectly manage the equipment. So now, they have their own technique of working and understanding, and we haven't worked on that machine before. Hence, the director had to learn how to work on that machine, which by the way, it quite big. Just the other day, we were shooting for some additional scenes for the last bit of the film, and there was a fire. While the fire could be controlled well in time, as it wasn't that big, but the water used to douse the fire went into the machine. So, the whole thing stopped working. Of course, we could shoot in static, but everyone was obviously worried. Also, it was sad, because we bought this expensive machine, perhaps a first in the country. Luckily for us, after keeping it in a silica tank or something, the machine was up and working within two days. So yes, technology does bring along some hitches. Sometimes, you do make mistakes. Of course, there were some good parts too. 

And what about the song with Salman Khan?

So, while shooting with Salman, I had to jump in his arms. We thought he will have to be hooked on something. He was standing at quite a height, and I had to take a jump. Obviously, when I jump, that will have a lot of force. So, we wanted him to be put on to a wire. But, he is so strong, that he didn't move. That solved a lot of problems (smiles). Because if had fallen or moved in a stranger manner, we couldn't have pulled off that shot. Certain shots may start looking a bit weird if not executed properly. Then, in some shots I have to jump into a rickshaw, or even Zeeshan's lap. So, somebody discovered that if a string is put up, I can jump across and reach (laughs). These little things were experimented with. Some look real, some unreal. Certain romantic scenes had to look a certain way. Now, when Katrina bends down to kiss me, she can't touch me too much. That's because my face gets covered and it cannot structured later. So, angles had to be set. Beyond that, we couldn't judge or look at what we have shot. Usually, we are used to seeing our shots on the monitor. It was a lot of hit and trial. That's why, we took a lot of time to shoot this film with complete perfection.

You know, when films bomb at the box office, then it's the best way to call them 'ahead of its time'. That's the best excuse (laughs)

We hope you enjoyed our candid conversation with Shah Rukh Khan!

Read Part I of the Conversation here
Are you excited to watch Zero tomorrow? Share your excitement in the comment below or Join the conversation on
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Love,
The Dancebee

After a year long wait (or perhaps, more), he is back with an all new release. After generating maximum curiosity with teasers, posters and BTS shots all year round, Shah Rukh Khan is ready with the much anticipated Christmas release of 2018 - Zero. What clearly looks like India's very own VFX marvel to watch out for, Zero will have Khan collaborating with film maker Aanand L Rai (known for his romantic-dramas set in the heartland of India), for the very first time. While the actor is known to experiment with his avatar in every film, be it Ra. One, Chak De India or Fan, it would be for the first time that he will seen as a dwarf on the big screen. And no, this ain't your regular fare, where a body double or fake tricks are used. Zero is said to be a state of the art VFX film, and Khan's team at Red Chillies VFX promises to leave no stone unturned to turn it into a memorable experience for the cine goers.



On a breezy December evening, while trying to catch up with the peak hour Mumbai traffic, we were invited for a conversation with Khan at a suburban studio. It was a tough week for the actor, what with back to back events, a big fat Indian wedding, and promotions for the film in Dubai. Dressed looking his dapper best, complete with a grey jacket to beat the breeze, Khan walked out of his swanky vanity van and rushed in to greet us. Despite the tough schedule, he looked happy (and handsome as ever) and welcomed us with a smile. What followed was an uninterrupted, long conversation on all things cinema, life, VFX, and of course - being Bauua Singh for Zero. As he continued to sip on hot coffee from his tumbler, we got ready to shoot our questions! And of course, the actor was all ears, as he sat down for a chat, while flashing those legendary dimples. Here's our much awaited interview, an uncut conversation series, presented in two parts. Presenting Part I of our conversation with Shah Rukh Khan:



What went into the conceptualisation of your character - Bauua Singh? What were the key personality traits kept in mind, before the character was actually given shape? 
It's not really experimental, but just a physical difference in a character. As much as growing a moustache, but the technology to create this and the process took very long. Also, the film's basis being that all of us spend most of our time wishing that we could be happier. I wish I had this, or could do that. And, we have so many people around us telling us how we should be. But, we don't realise that each one of us are unique. Nobody is perfect, except I joke - Katrina Kaif (laughs). Jokes apart, we can agree that no individual is perfect, either mentally, emotionally or physically. I think we should accept that fact, so that we don't waste time trying to be someone else, while time passes away. Because I believe that life is too short. You just need to believe in yourself - this is who I am, and this is the best I can be. Look at things, that you otherwise consider as flaws, like your uniqueness. Agar main height main chota hoon, toh woh ek advantage hai. If you are someone who cribs - main lamba nahi hoon, gora nahi hoon, patla nahi hoon, ya mere maa baap vapas nahi aa sakte hain; Just tell yourself - let me enjoy this one life that God has given us. To be able to create that vibe in Zero, we needed some incompleteness in our film. So, we added three - there is a physically challenged person, there is a neurologically challenged person, and then, you have the most beautiful woman, who is emotionally challenged. If we accept our flaws and limitations, we can grow as a human being.

Bauua Singh is clearly portrayed in a natural manner, without the unnecessary dose of emotions or sympathy. Was that intentional and integral as well for the film?
That's precisely why we chose to have Bauua's physicality a certain way. It could have been any of the three characters, but this was integral to the story. In fact, we were worried that this should not become the main stay of the film. Thankfully, from whatever I have seen so far, I feel that you overcome that right after 10-15 minutes. We definitely didn't want his height to be a gimmick. Aanand [director] hasn't shot any sequence where people go 'Arey dekho, chota height wala ghoda chala raha hain.' Even if he is doing that, then it's normal. The idea was to ensure that his character is acceptable. Secondly, when you have characters with special ability, a lot of emotions shift towards sympathy. Hence, we have ensured that the characters don't appear like they are in need of sympathy. It shouldn't be like 'Arey Bechara' or 'Bechari'. Whether it's from their friends, family, those around them or even the audience. We wanted to bring about an equality, and not bank on sympathy. And, I don't think any human being looks for it either. Yes, we look for love, friendship and happiness. But, definitely not sympathy.

No individual is perfect, either mentally, emotionally or physically. I think we should accept that fact, so that we don't waste time trying to be someone else

Considering this was the first time you are essaying the role of a dwarf, did the character come with its own set of challenges for you as an actor?
No, I think VFX made things very easy for me. So, during the first 7-8 days, the process took us much longer than we thought, and then we realised. We took 200 days to make the film, and that was followed by a lot of work on post production. Beyond that, I don't think so. Zero is a very cosy and emotional film. By solely highlighting that this is a VFX film, we didn't want to lose out on the small joys, relationships and elements that make it different. So, the VFX team told us - "Behave the way you are. We will manage the rest." So, I had to be careful of minute things. Like, I can't walk with a longer slide. If I climb stairs, it has to be a ramp, so that my steps looks smaller. Some touch ups during dance. Otherwise, I was more or else asked to behave normally. While shooting, I used to actually stand in a pit most of the times. So, rest of the cast could see me from a certain angle.

Was there any real person who inspired or helped you understand the nuances required to essay Bauua Singh, especially the movements as a dwarf?
Yes! Ashish, who is an actor from Delhi, helped with everything behind the scenes. The idea was not to use a body double, so we didn't want to duplicate. But, Ashish has worked really hard. He would enact every scene before we did the final shot, so that the character has the right perspective. That was a technical requirement. He was extremely helpful and sweet.

For me, the journey is important. I don't focus on the finish line, but look at it from the perspective of a milestone

Zero is considered to a complete number, yet incomplete. What's your perspective towards the number like, and how do you co-relate it to the film? Also, do you perceive yourself as a complete artist?
Zero is a perspective. It is nothing, and yet complete. That's the whole film. Sab nazariye ki baat hain. I'll tell you what, I have never felt complete. As an artist, I still feel incomplete, and if I am not, then I would not like to work. Why else would I wake up in the morning and strive to work harder than I did a day before? I am always thinking whether I can bring in something new within the commercial cinema set up that I work in - be it as an actor, producer or whichever capacity it maybe. So, I am extremely restless. I believe that if you think you are complete, then you are boring. I don't look at things in order to complete them. For me, the journey is important. I don't focus on the finish line, but look at it from the perspective of a milestone. I never plan things, nor do I have set ideas - this is how much I should earn, the number of awards I should win, or how many hit films I should have make. It's all very organic, because once you work in the industry as long as I have, specifics become less important. You can't pinpoint and say, "Picture aisi banao, toh aisi chalegi. Friday ko collection hoga," No matter how big an expert you are, eventually, the business is complete dependent upon the story that you are telling. So, I find myself becoming lesser expert about a film, and I think that's one reason why I am enjoying the process of working on the films that I am doing. I am just very happy, and after working in the industry for 25 years, the only reason you should continue working should be for pure happiness of your art.

You have spoken about the amount of efforts that have gone into the making of this film. Is there any amount of nervousness, especially since you are trying something unique yet again?
I think for this film, I am a little more nervous than the usual. We've been working really hard on all the aspects related to the film since so many months now. Through the process, you get so tired, that you really have no feeling left. You just hope that what you have made is liked and accepted by the audience. And, you never know. Sometimes, people end up liking films that you don't think are that great, and then, some don't like what you think is good. I have worked for so many years, but I can't analyse how a film should be. I guess those who spend money on it are the ones who can analyse it best - the audience. So, I just let things be. Ab jaisi hai, vaisi hai. Uska kuch kar nahi sakte (smiles).

Stay tuned for Part II of our candid conversation with Shah Rukh Khan!

Are you excited to watch Zero tomorrow? Share your excitement in the comment below or Join the conversation on
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Love,
The Dancebee

There is no doubt about the fact that Ayushmann Khurrana is one of the finest artists that we have in the industry today. Over the years, Khurrana has worked hard and proved his mettle not just as an actor, but also as a successful singer, composer, host, writer among others. Right from his debut in the award winning Vicky Donor, Delhi ka munda Khurrana has consistently raised the bar for himself. After earning accolades for his performance in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, and winning hearts with popular singles like Yahin hoon main and Ik Vaari, Khurrana is all set to wow the audience in the avatar of a writer - Abhimanyu Roy. As Meri Pyaari Bindu releases today, we catch up with Ayushmann Khurrana, who discusses films, family and life in an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee. Excerpts from a candid chat:

You are seen playing a Bengali character in Meri Pyaari Bindu. What were the aspects or nuances that you picked up for this role? 

I strongly believe that I am half Bengali! I have a Punjabi body with a Bengali soul (smiles). This time, when I went to Kolkata for Meri Pyaari Bindu, I discovered certain things about the city. First was Rabindra Sangeet. I heard some of the songs and have started liking it. I have also read many Bengali novels. Among them, Chokher Bali is my favourite. I have also noticed that in Kolkata two cities exist. The night life of Kolkata is very active. Park Street is so alive throughout the night. Then, there is North Kolkata, where one can see the old heritage buildings standing for hundreds of years. People over there don't want to change anything, as they want to preserve the heritage and culture.

I knew this from the beginning that I am not going to sing in this film. Here, the singer is Parineeti aka Bindu. Even in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, I haven't sung at all. There, I was a big Kumar Sanu fan, but never sang. Sometimes, I truly believe the singer should take a backseat, and the actor should come in the forefront.  

Failure is the best teacher anyone could have

The wedding season is just around the corner, and as usual, popular designers are busy adding final touches to their bespoke outfits for brides-to be. While some go traditional, others chose to experiment. If you are among those who wishes to be a modern bride on her big day, especially at a white wedding, look no further. label Karleo's Karan Berry and Leon Vaz, who are known for their pret-a-couture and couture garments. One look at their stunning evening gowns and bridal ensembles, and you can't help but get mesmerised by the fine detailing. Last month, we got an exclusive glimpse of their latest collection - White Symphony, that reflects the harmony between faiths and is perfectly designed for the modern bride. In an exclusive chat with Diary of a Dancebee, we got the designer duo to tell us more about their latest collection, vision and some helpful tips for the brides-to be.

As designers, is there a particular vision that you have for your label, Karleo?

As designers we make sure we offer our clients exactly what they want as a bride. Our aim is to make the brides dream come through with her wedding gown. We ensure high quality of craftsmanship along with accessories and styling tips for the bride. It’s a one stop shop for every bride. 

What was your inspiration for the new ‘White Symphony’ collection?

White Symphony is for the modern bride. It reflects harmony between faiths, and the growing norm of interfaith wedded bliss. In this bridal collection, stark, pristine white makes way for other hues, with accents of crimson, emerald, vermillion and black representing different faiths. Celebrating bespoke bridal creations, the collection includes bird motifs as symbols of customised elements in bridal wear that truly mirrors a bride’s personality. 

Do you personally believe the collection also breaks stereotypes attached to white weddings and the outfits traditionally worn by brides?

The idea is to provide the bride with designs that complement her along with being comfortable. Brides want to experiment these days and are willing to opt for different styles and even use color for a white wedding.

How did you conceptualise this collection?

Our design ethic has always worked on contrasting factors. We love to combine the odds with evens. White Symphony is a derivative from our clients and people we end up meeting. It reflects a combination of different cultures, and blending it well to create a piece. Over the past year, we have had a lot of inter faith weddings, which was the inspiration behind the creation of white symphony.

Do you think the audience is more open to experimenting with their bridal outfits, compared to, say five years back?

 Yes! The audience is willing to experiment with their gowns. Every bride wants her outfit to tell a story, which is weaved in through different memories of their existence.

What has been the most bizarre or hilarious demand that a client has ever made?

We had a bride once make an entire black bridal gown, since the color black was a symbol of safety and security for her. 

Any tips for brides this season / Any particular Dos and Don’ts that you share with your clients, especially brides, very often.

Incorrect shoes is a major faux pas. Wearing a wedge platform shoe with an evening gown is a complete no-no. It changes the way you walk and completely spoil the look.  It’s not important to wear high heels with a gown but, heels do help you to walk gracefully. It maybe a small thing but it makes a huge difference. Personally, we feel shoes are the most important thing. You have to know what kind will go well with your outfit. It can break or make the look. Also, accessories should always be used in the right proportion. 

What are your predictions for the next season, SS 17 and for Summer brides?

Trends are tilting more towards the simplest classic styles and colours. The old school charm is back in its true sense without it being altered. The trends will come from our childhood memories of fashion, which we saw growing up. Long Sleeves are definitely here to stay. Pinafore dress is coming back.  Classic evening wear with more focus to detailing (stitching, beading etc) is also making a come back.   

For more information, like the official Karleo page on Facebook here

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Love,

The Dancebee

Most of us have grown up watching him rule the Australian cricket team in the 90s and early millennium. We cheered for him, as he took wickets for Kings XI Punjab (and later, Kolkata Knight Riders) and took the world by storm with his famed wicket celebration style. Later, we saw him juggle multiple roles, right from being a commentator to a post-match show host. As part of the band - Six & Out, he is also known for being a pro at acoustic and bass guitar. This year, former Australian international cricket star Brett Lee, is all set to start a new innings - that of an actor. The Indo-Australian film titled UnIndian, helmed by Anupam Sharma, shall mark Binga's debut in the world of cinema. Lee will be seen essaying the role of an English language teacher named Will, who falls in love with an Indian single mum (played by Tannishtha Chatterjee). We caught up with the dashing sports star on super hectic day and the excited cricketer turned actor, who was in the city for a quick round of promotional activities, spoke to us about UnIndian, turning actor, his view on the changing face of cricket and why he loves Virat Kohli. Excerpts from a fun conversation:

How was it working with the cast and crew of UnIndian, which marks your debut as an actor?

It was an absolute pleasure working with the cast and crew of the film. The most amazing part is the fact that they are so gifted and talented. They are very good at everything that they do. If you use the cricket analogy, we were all on the same pitch and worked together as team mates. Our common goal was to ensure that we make a great film. The film is purely shot in Australia and a lot of people in the country have appreciated the film. The reports and responses have been great so far. I really hope the Indian audience appreciates the film and our efforts.

You made a short trip to India for promotions. What was that experience like?

I was quite excited and thrilled about launching the film in India. It releases this week and I am looking forward to the response that UnIndian gets in this country. It’s been a lot of fun with several engagements being organised, right from interacting with children to adults and of course, sections of the media. It’s been encouraging, especially the response that we’ve been getting on social media.

How did you prepare yourself for this film, considering this was your debut?

I did a couple of acting courses, before the film started off. My experience in front of the camera helped (as a host for post match shows) and I tried to use it in the best way. I have always believed that my experience of 28-years, both on and off the field, made the transition more easier, since there were cameras around, all the time.

Did you face any stumbling block while working on this film?

Not really. But, I got to learn that the biggest challenge about acting is patience. It’s a bit like playing cards on the cruise. You really gotta be patient and use your time to understand that things do take time. So, that’s probably the hardest thing and I am glad I learned it on the job.

I liked the message that this film carries. It showcases the fact that love has no boundaries. You can’t help who you fall in love with

What was it about the script of this film that attracted you the most?

I liked the message that this film carries. It showcases the fact that love has no boundaries. You can’t help who you fall in love with, no matter what hair, skin or eye colour. I reckon that myself and my character Will is very similar to how I am in real life. That’s probably one reason why essaying Will’s character got a lot more easier. I strongly believe in the same values and share the same views. I think it’s a beautiful message to spread, at a time when there is a lot of unrest and trouble going on in the world right now. I think it’s nice to watch a film which takes you away from everything happening in the world outside. For 106 minutes, it helps you disconnect and enjoy something to the core.

You made your test debut against India. What do you have to say about your experience of playing against the country?

I have always enjoyed playing against them. It was unarguably one of my favourite countries to play against. We were always up against the best, whether it is Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, Dravid or Ganguly (to mention a few). It was hard to play against India, but it was this very challenge that I loved the most.

What's your take on the changing face of cricket today, especially with the introduction of shorter formats?

I think the game is changing for better. Of course, all of us want to make sure that test cricket is still looked after. I like the purity of test cricket. You need to be in love with game to follow five days of cricket. It’s called test cricket because it is like a test of character, commitment, courage and who you wanna be in that moment. But for me, T20 cricket has changed the game completely and that too, for the better. So with all the new premiere leagues and cricket matches, the future definitely seems good, especially for the youngsters.

Who's your favourite cricketer from the current lot?

I absolutely love Virat Kohli. What is it not to love about him? He is such a fantastic, gifted athlete. The kind of passion and controlled aggression that he possesses is unbelievable. It’s a lot like the way Australian cricket team plays, where they’ve got the controller aggression in place. I think Kohli has definitely got that and it is always a pleasure watching him play.

I will definitely look forward to working on more films. I am game to take up a Bollywood project, if at all it comes my way. 

Several young cricketers from across the globe look up to you. What would be your special advice for them, especially those who focus on fast bowling?

If you are a fast bowler, enjoy being one! Embrace it and ensure that you work hard. I think it’s extremely important to ensure that you get the right training. Too many bowlers are lifting heavy weights. You need to check out trainers who can help out with high intensity cardio, low weights and the right training routine. I have always worked out at the F45 gyms. They are an Australian franchise and have come down to India as well. I think they have the perfect training for fast bowlers.

We can't let you go without asking this - will we see you in an out and out Bollywood masala entertainer anytime soon?

Bollywood is extremely colourful. I do understand that there is a lot of dancing involved in Bollywood. With a lot going on, it just makes these films extremely exciting to watch. Right now, I am looking forward to seeing the response to UnIndian, especially their reaction to me as an actor and my character, Will. Post that, I will definitely look forward to working on more films. I am game to take up a Bollywood project, if at all it comes my way. And yes, I’ll be ready for the challenge of speaking in Hindi as well as shaking a leg on Bollywood numbers (laughs).

Love,
The Dancebee

Why were you keen on exploring the era of Mohenjodaro through your film?

How do you aim to form a connect between the youth of today, and the Mohenjodaro era?

What was your research for creating the sets like?



Almost all your films have explored Indian history or have had the essence of India as it's core. Does that come from the fact that you take a lot of pride in being an Indian, and take a lot of inspiration from it's rich past?
Of course, I do take a lot pride in our rich history. There are so many eras, dynasties and parts of the country. They all have a tale to tell. So much, that I don’t know how they can all be told on the big screen. There are so many monuments; palaces and forts that are left behind, which you can look at with splendour. Most of us are only familiar with the Mughal era or the British Raj, because of the history we are taught or what the monuments that we see. But, if you travel to the interiors of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa or many other states, you will realise that there is so much more. The Gajapathies, Krishnadevraya; empires that were so massive and existed at a time. But then, they are just confined to a few pages in the history books. We haven’t got a cinematic rendition of it. So, if I get enamoured by a particular period and tell that story well, I feel good. Ultimately, no matter how good your sets are and how well you create the costumes, it all boils down to a good story to make a film work. The former are all embellishments, but what matters is the story and how well it is weaved along with the characters.

Buddha was something that I wanted explore right after Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. We had started work on it, but the project had to be aborted due to some reasons. That’s when I started Everest and then moved on scripting Mohenjodaro. I haven't thought about Buddha again. The inspiration to get back to the idea needs come naturally to me.