Akhtar saw Mukkabaaz & said, ‘You don’t like making money’: Anurag
In an industry where box office numbers are often the ultimate measure of success, filmmakers are constantly under pressure to create movies that appeal to a wide audience. But what happens when you’re making a film that challenges the status quo, that explores the harsh realities of the world, rather than catering to popular taste? For Anurag Kashyap, the answer lies in his critically acclaimed film, Mukkabaaz.
Released in 2017, Mukkabaaz was a sports drama that told the story of a young boxer, Shravan, played by Vineet Kumar Singh, who fights against all odds to achieve his dream of becoming a champion. The film was praised for its gritty portrayal of the Indian sports scene, its nuanced exploration of caste and class dynamics, and its powerful performances. But despite its critical acclaim, Mukkabaaz was not a commercial success.
In a recent interview, Anurag Kashyap revealed that he had a telling conversation with screenwriter Javed Akhtar after watching the film. Akhtar, known for his iconic dialogues and songs, told Anurag that if he had ended the film with Shravan emerging victorious, Mukkabaaz would have been a hit. But Anurag refused to compromise on his artistic vision, choosing instead to show the harsh realities of the Indian sports scene.
“He told me, ‘You’ve a problem. You don’t like making money’,” Anurag recalled. “I said, ‘No, I’m not making a film to make money. I’m making a film to show the reality of Indian sports’. He said, ‘What’s the point of showing the reality? Why can’t you make it a happy film?’ But for me, that’s not what films are about. Films are about showing the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.”
Anurag’s stubborn refusal to compromise on his artistic vision is a testament to his commitment to telling stories that need to be told. Mukkabaaz may not have been a commercial success, but it has become a cult classic, resonating with audiences who appreciate its unflinching portrayal of the Indian sports scene.
The film’s depiction of the sport of boxing is unlike anything seen on Indian screens before. It’s a gritty, brutal, and often cruel sport that requires a level of physical and mental toughness that few can match. But what sets Mukkabaaz apart is its nuanced exploration of the characters involved, particularly Shravan, who is driven by a desire to prove himself not just as a boxer, but as a human being.
Vineet Kumar Singh’s performance as Shravan is a masterclass in acting, capturing the character’s vulnerability, determination, and ultimately, his defeat. It’s a performance that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, refusing to shy away from the harsh realities of the sport.
Anurag’s refusal to compromise on his artistic vision is not unique to Mukkabaaz. Throughout his career, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in Indian cinema, exploring themes that are often uncomfortable, controversial, and challenging.
From the gritty realism of Black Friday to the dark humor of Gangs of Wasseypur, Anurag’s films are known for their unflinching portrayal of the human condition. He is a filmmaker who is unafraid to take risks, who refuses to pander to popular taste, and who is committed to telling stories that need to be told.
In an industry where commercial success is often prioritized over artistic merit, Anurag’s commitment to his artistic vision is a breath of fresh air. Mukkabaaz may not have been a commercial success, but it is a film that will be remembered for its courage, its conviction, and its unflinching portrayal of the human condition.
As Anurag Kashyap so eloquently put it, “Films are about showing the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.” Mukkabaaz is a testament to this philosophy, a film that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
