Title: Akhtar saw Mukkabaaz & said, “You don’t like making money”: Anurag
The world of cinema is replete with stories of creative differences, conflicts, and disagreements between filmmakers and artists. Recently, a fascinating anecdote emerged about the critically acclaimed film Mukkabaaz, directed by Anurag Kashyap, and the legendary screenwriter Javed Akhtar. In an interview, Anurag Kashyap shared a telling conversation he had with Javed Akhtar after watching the film, which has left many in the industry intrigued.
Mukkabaaz, released in 2018, is a sports drama that follows the story of Shravan, a small-town boxer from Uttar Pradesh, played by Vineet Kumar Singh, who fights against the odds to pursue his passion for boxing. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of Indian sports, the social dynamics of the characters, and the raw, gritty cinematography.
During an interview, Anurag Kashyap revealed that Javed Akhtar had watched the film and shared his thoughts with him. According to Kashyap, Akhtar told him, “You’ve a problem. You don’t like making money.” This comment was made because, as Akhtar pointed out, if Kashyap had shown Shravan winning at the end of the film, it would have been a huge commercial success. However, Kashyap deliberately chose not to have his protagonist emerge victorious, opting instead to depict the harsh realities of Indian sports.
Kashyap explained that he wouldn’t have made the film if he had to show Shravan winning, as that would have been a disservice to the story and its characters. He wanted to showcase the brutal truth about the sports ecosystem in India, where athletes often struggle to make ends meet and face numerous challenges. By not giving his protagonist a triumphant ending, Kashyap aimed to highlight the struggles and injustices that many Indian athletes face.
It’s not the first time that Anurag Kashyap has taken a bold approach to storytelling, and Mukkabaaz is a testament to his commitment to creating films that challenge societal norms and conventions. Kashyap’s willingness to take risks and push boundaries has earned him a reputation as a maverick filmmaker, and his collaborations with writers like Javed Akhtar have resulted in some remarkable films.
The comment made by Javed Akhtar also raises important questions about the commercialization of cinema and the pressure to create films that appeal to a broad audience. While commercial success is undoubtedly important for filmmakers, it’s equally crucial to remember that art should be driven by creative vision and integrity rather than solely by box office returns.
In a world where Bollywood films often prioritize spectacle over storytelling, Mukkabaaz stands out as a refreshing exception. The film’s success lies not only in its technical merits but also in its bold, unflinching portrayal of the human condition. By refusing to conform to traditional notions of success, Kashyap has created a film that resonates with audiences and leaves a lasting impact.
The conversation between Anurag Kashyap and Javed Akhtar serves as a reminder that creative differences are a natural part of the filmmaking process. It’s a testament to the passion and dedication of artists like Kashyap, who remain committed to their vision, even in the face of criticism and skepticism.
As the film industry continues to evolve and change, it’s essential for filmmakers to stay true to their artistic vision, even if it means taking risks and facing challenges along the way. The story of Mukkabaaz and the conversation between Anurag Kashyap and Javed Akhtar serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying committed to one’s creative vision, even in the face of criticism and skepticism.
Conclusion:
The conversation between Anurag Kashyap and Javed Akhtar is a fascinating glimpse into the world of Indian cinema, where creative differences often play a significant role in shaping the final product. Mukkabaaz, a film that has been widely acclaimed for its nuanced portrayal of Indian sports, serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision.
As the film industry continues to evolve and change, it’s essential for filmmakers to remain committed to their creative vision, even in the face of criticism and skepticism. The story of Mukkabaaz and the conversation between Anurag Kashyap and Javed Akhtar serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision, even if it means taking risks and facing challenges along the way.
