R. Balki on 'certain kind of films' like Gadar 2, Jawan or RRKPK pulling crowd & changing cinema

Renowned filmmaker R. Balki has carved a niche for himself in the film industry, lauded for his distinctive storytelling prowess. His cinematic repertoire boasts a diverse range of films such as 'Paa,' 'Padman,' 'Cheeni Kum,' 'Chup: The Revenge of an Artist,' and his latest creation, 'Ghoomer.' Beyond his directorial skills, Balki is a treasure trove of profound insights, often leaving a lasting impact on those who engage with his thoughts. Recently, the visionary filmmaker engaged in an enlightening and candid conversation with India Forums, delving into a myriad of subjects.

When aksed, about the current scenario of the Indian film industry and cinema when the likes of 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani', 'Jawan', 'Gadar 2' are smashing box office records and pulling masses to the theatres just like the olden days, does he feel something has changed? To this he replied, 

"I don't think cinema. I think a lot of people are watching certain kinds of films. I am not sure they are watching all kinds of films. I really don't know whether people have come back to cinemas in a big way or they are coming back to see certain kinds of films, I don't know."

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He further gushed, 

"Because during COVID times, we all got used to watching films at home. It took us a little time to get out of home and come back. But I am not sure that every film that was working before in theatres is working now. It's a little confusing today what is really working and what is not working. So, it's a little confusing."

Later when asked about how his films be it 'Cheeni Kam', 'Paa' , 'Ki and Kaa' and others, have always tried to shed out things or messages that are different, needed and progressive. So does he feel strongly about the progression we as individuals need and is his craft a medium to put out the same"?  To this Balki said,

"Not its not like that. It's the way everybody thinks. I think I look at life only like that. I don't think there are any set rules that men and women should have in life. Anybody can do anything. So, why should a grandfather love cricket? Why can't it be a grandmother? Why can't women love cricket as much as men? So, I look at people as people. Not as genders or whatever. So, I don't think of being progressive. It's the way I look at life itself."

R. Balki's film 'Ghoomer' starred Abhishek Bachchan, Saiyami Kher, Angad Bedi and Shabana Azmi in pivotal roles. 

ALSO READ: Review: 'Ghoomer' turns to be a 'bayein hath ka khel' owing to Abhishek Bachchan & Saiyami Kher's stellar act