Title: Akhtar saw Mukkabaaz & said, ‘You don’t like making money’: Anurag
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s critically acclaimed film Mukkabaaz, which released in 2017, was a raw and unapologetic portrayal of the world of Indian boxing. The film told the story of Shravan Kumar, a young boxer from Uttar Pradesh, who dreams of becoming a champion. However, his journey is marred by casteism, corruption, and personal struggles. The film received widespread acclaim for its bold storytelling and powerful performances.
Recently, in an interview, Anurag Kashyap opened up about the feedback he received from legendary screenwriter Javed Akhtar after watching the film. According to Kashyap, Akhtar told him that if he had shown the protagonist, Vineet Kumar Singh, winning at the end of the film, it would have been a hit. However, Kashyap refused to make the film that way, citing his desire to show the harsh reality of Indian sports.
In the interview, Kashyap recalled Akhtar’s words, saying, “He told me, ‘You’ve a problem. You don’t like making money’.” Kashyap revealed that he was taken aback by Akhtar’s comment, as he had expected a more nuanced discussion about the film. However, Akhtar’s comment got him thinking about the commercial expectations that come with making a film. Kashyap said, “I realized that I was making a film that was not meant to be a commercial success. I was making a film that was meant to be a statement.”
Kashyap’s decision to make Mukkabaaz a reality-driven film was a deliberate choice. He wanted to showcase the struggles and hardships that athletes face in India, particularly in the world of boxing. The film’s protagonist, Shravan, is a symbol of the underdog spirit, who faces numerous challenges and setbacks throughout his journey. However, the film does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of the sport, including corruption, nepotism, and casteism.
Kashyap has always been known for his bold and unapologetic storytelling style, and Mukkabaaz is no exception. The film’s raw and unflinching portrayal of the world of Indian boxing has been praised by critics and audiences alike. The film’s success can be attributed to Kashyap’s willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in Indian cinema.
Mukkabaaz has also been praised for its powerful performances, particularly by Vineet Kumar Singh, who played the role of Shravan Kumar. Singh’s performance was widely praised for its intensity and authenticity, and he even received a National Award for his portrayal.
Akhtar’s comment about the film’s commercial potential is interesting, as it highlights the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success. Many filmmakers face the pressure to make a commercially viable film, even if it means compromising on their artistic vision. However, Kashyap’s decision to stick to his guns and make a film that is true to its vision is a testament to his commitment to telling stories that need to be told.
In conclusion, Anurag Kashyap’s Mukkabaaz is a powerful and unflinching portrayal of the world of Indian boxing. The film’s bold storytelling and powerful performances have been widely praised, and its success can be attributed to Kashyap’s willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in Indian cinema. Akhtar’s comment about the film’s commercial potential may have been surprising, but it highlights the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success, and serves as a reminder that filmmakers must always stay true to their vision.
