Anand Pandit's Exclusive Interview On Fakt Purusho Maate, Fakt Mahilao Maate Success, Gujarati Cinema & More

Anand Pandit interview: It's always a pleasure to talk to one of the veteran producers in Bollywood- Anand Pandit. Mr. Pandit is always beaming with excitement whenever we ask him about his upcoming projects. In an exclusive interview with Filmibeat, he opened up about his new film Fakt Purusho Maate.

Excerpts from the interview.

1) What inspired you to create a comedy focused on the inner world of men, as a follow-up to your previous film "Fakt Mahilao Maate"?

Well, every human-being wants to be heard and understood and this film naturally takes forward the conversation that 'Fakt Mahilao Maate' had started. That film successfully explored the unheard feelings of women and this one focuses on the inner world of men. The underlying theme is a bit similar in both instances and shines light on the core conflict between tradition and modernity as well as the ever present generation gap. The film will once again emphasise the importance of embracing equality, be it between genders or generations. And because it is a social comedy just like 'Fakt Mahilao Maate,' it will deliver its message along with plenty of entertainment. The protagonist this time is Purshottam, who descends from the afterlife to interfere with his grandson Brijesh's marriage to his childhood sweetheart. He believes his reasons are valid but it is up to the audience to discern whether he is a relic of patriarchy. Comedy, I believe, is a powerful tool to address serious issues and through this film, we are trying to accomplish exactly that.

2) As an established filmmaker, how do you see this project contributing to the Indian cinema focused on a then around gender, social change and cultural shifts?

Well, as I said, entertainment and laughter can often bring forth important issues and spark conversations. There are many films like 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro' and in recent times, Kiran Rao's 'Laapataa Ladies' which have successfully blended comedy with social commentary. I think this film is unique because it pits a spirit trapped in the values of the past against the modern perspective of the current generation. I think any narrative that aims to break the notions of generational patriarchy and supports gender equality will push the cinematic envelope just a little more. I have no doubt that this film will be loved by the family audiences.

3) This is your third Gujarati Film. What have you learnt from your previous experience from your previous Gujarati Movies and the Gujarati Film Industry?

Well, from the success of 'Fakt Mahilao Maate' and 'Tron Ekka', I have learnt that audiences in Gujarat are naturally drawn to wholesome entertainment, a socially relevant message and rooted, relatable, family-friendly stories. They want something unique but also themes that they can emotionally connect with. No filmmaker can take the audience for granted today and regional audiences in particular appreciate well-written films that draw from their ethos and milieu and yet are not derivative. We have succeeded so far in giving them what they want and hope to continue to create cinema that will bring family audiences back to theatres. I also believe that Gujarati films have the potential to attract a pan-Indian audience but they need to be marketed appropriately with the right amount of promotion and exposure. Subtitling and dubbing in multiple languages have helped South-Indian films to break the language barrier and we could do the same with Gujarati cinema.

4) How will you balance the comedic elements with the deeper societal commentary in this film? What are some key issues around gender equality you will be highlighting in this movie?

I think I have answered that question. But to add to what I have already said, cinema cannot be preachy. It can also not be meaningless and a perfect balance between entertainment and social messaging always works its magic.