Akhtar Saw Mukkabaaz & Said, ‘You Don’t Like Making Money’: Anurag
The world of Indian cinema has always been a reflection of the country’s complex social fabric. Filmmakers have consistently pushed the boundaries to bring forth stories that are both captivating and thought-provoking. One such film that garnered significant attention is Mukkabaaz, directed by Anurag Kashyap and starring Vineet Kumar Singh. The film, which premiered at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, revolves around the story of a young boxer’s struggle against the corrupt boxing federation.
In a recent interview, Anurag Kashyap revealed that renowned screenwriter Javed Akhtar had some interesting comments about the film after watching it. Akhtar reportedly told Kashyap that if he had shown Vineet Kumar Singh’s character winning at the end of the film, it would have been a hit. However, Kashyap refused to compromise on his vision, citing that he wanted to show the harsh reality of Indian sports.
Mukkabaaz is a powerful commentary on the state of Indian sports, particularly boxing. The film highlights the struggles that athletes face due to corruption, nepotism, and lack of resources. The protagonist, Shravan Kumar, played by Vineet Kumar Singh, is a young boxer who is forced to quit the sport due to the corrupt federation. The film’s portrayal of the dark underbelly of Indian sports is both shocking and thought-provoking.
Kashyap’s decision to not show Shravan winning at the end of the film was a deliberate choice. He wanted to highlight the harsh realities of Indian sports, where athletes often struggle to make ends meet. By showing Shravan’s defeat, Kashyap aimed to convey the message that the system is rigged against the common man. This bold move received praise from critics and audiences alike, who appreciated the film’s unflinching portrayal of the truth.
Akhtar’s comment about the film’s commercial viability is an interesting one. It highlights the pressure that filmmakers face to create content that appeals to a broad audience. However, Kashyap’s decision to not compromise on his vision is a testament to his commitment to telling stories that need to be told. By refusing to show Shravan winning, Kashyap was able to convey a powerful message about the state of Indian sports, even if it meant sacrificing commercial success.
Mukkabaaz is not the first film to tackle the theme of corruption in Indian sports. However, it is one of the most well-crafted and thought-provoking films on the subject. The film’s success can be attributed to its well-developed characters, gripping storyline, and powerful performances. Vineet Kumar Singh’s portrayal of Shravan Kumar is particularly noteworthy, as he brings depth and nuance to the character.
Kashyap’s decision to work with Vineet Kumar Singh was a deliberate choice. He wanted an actor who could bring authenticity to the role of Shravan Kumar. Singh’s background in martial arts and his experience in playing a boxer in a previous film made him the perfect choice for the role. The chemistry between Singh and the rest of the cast is undeniable, adding to the film’s emotional impact.
Mukkabaaz’s success is not limited to its powerful storytelling and performances. The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the gritty and rustic landscape of Uttar Pradesh. The film’s score, composed by Rachita Arora, adds to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
In conclusion, Mukkabaaz is a powerful film that sheds light on the dark underbelly of Indian sports. Anurag Kashyap’s decision to not show Vineet Kumar Singh’s character winning at the end of the film was a deliberate choice, aimed at highlighting the harsh realities of Indian sports. Javed Akhtar’s comment about the film’s commercial viability is an interesting one, highlighting the pressure that filmmakers face to create content that appeals to a broad audience. However, Kashyap’s commitment to telling stories that need to be told is a testament to his dedication to his craft.
