EXCL! Bombay Stories Director Rahhat Kazmi Calls Mouni Roy 'Emotionally Intuitive'; Praises Main Vaapas Aaunga

Bombay Stories Director Rahhat Kazmi Exclusive: Rahhat Shah Kazmi has never shied away from speaking his mind, and his latest conversation is no different. In an exclusive interview with Mimtaz from Filmibeat, the acclaimed filmmaker was at his candid best and opened up about a wide range of topics... from the box office performance of Love In Vietnam to collaborating with Mouni Roy in his upcoming film Bombay Stories. Kazmi also reflected on the film's recognition at Cannes 2026, praised Imtiaz Ali's Main Vaapas Aaunga, and shared why he has always admired the filmmaker's storytelling style.

Here are the excerpts from the interview:

1) Bombay Stories received a warm response during its screening at Cannes. What was the audience reaction like, and what feedback stayed with you the most?

The response at the Cannes Film Festival was deeply emotional. People cried during the film. After the screening, many stayed back, spoke to us, and shared their feelings. Some even went on record saying that this film deserves an Oscar.

Awards are not something you chase as a filmmaker, but when people say something like that with genuine emotion, it becomes the biggest award in itself. What stayed with me most was that the audience connected not just with the story, but with the pain, dignity, and silences of the characters.

2) Many films have explored Mumbai beyond glamour. What makes Bombay Stories different, and what fresh perspective can audiences expect?

Mumbai is not just a city for me-it's an emotion I have lived with. Bombay Stories doesn't look at marginalized lives from a distance. It lives with them. The film doesn't try to shock, preach, or explain. These are not characters created to make a point; they are people trying to survive with dignity. I wanted the audience to observe, feel, and understand, without judgment. That honesty is what makes the film different.

3) After the Cannes response, when can we expect Bombay Stories to release in India?

We are currently figuring out the best release path for the film in India. A theatrical release is still on the table, but at the same time, we have started receiving strong offers from top OTT platforms.

If we decide not to go theatrical in India, the film will premiere on a major OTT platform here, while overseas territories like the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will definitely see a theatrical release. Our focus is to ensure the film travels well and reaches audiences who are open to this kind of cinema. The final decision will be announced soon.

4) Mouni Roy has been making headlines lately, not just for her work but also for aspects of her personal life. Having worked closely with her, how would you describe her as an artist and professional?

Mouni Roy is a very sincere and emotionally intuitive actor. She approached Bombay Stories without any image baggage and fully trusted the process. She is disciplined, prepared, and deeply respectful of the material. What I appreciate most is her willingness to listen and explore rather than perform. That honesty reflects strongly on screen.

5) Love in Vietnam was a unique cross-cultural project. How do you deal with a film that doesn't perform commercially as expected?

Love in Vietnam was a sincere attempt to tell a cross-cultural love story, and I remain proud of it. When a film doesn't do well commercially, there is disappointment, but I don't let it define me. I reflect, understand what could have been done differently, and move forward. Cinema is a long journey. Some films speak immediately, some slowly, and some much later.

6) What lessons from Love in Vietnam have you carried into your newer projects, including Bombay Stories?

That film taught me clarity, especially emotional clarity. With Bombay Stories, I trusted silence more, reduced explanation, and allowed characters to exist naturally.
It also taught me patience. Every story has its own rhythm, and as a filmmaker, you must respect that rhythm instead of forcing it.

7) You've worn many hats as a filmmaker. What has been a turning point in your journey?

A major turning point was embracing honesty in every role I play-whether as a director, writer, producer, or actor. In Bombay Stories, I also play a strong character named Khusiya, alongside Mouni Roy and Anupriya Goenka.

One moment that truly stayed with me was when Golden Globe-winning filmmaker Siddiq Barmak watched the film in Paris and sent his feedback. He appreciated the film's bold statements and praised every actor's performance, including my portrayal of Khusiya. That kind of recognition gives you quiet confidence to keep going.

8) Main Vaapas Aayunga is now witnessing a remarkable surge thanks to positive word-of-mouth. Have you watched it yet? Does its success reinforce the belief that good cinema eventually finds its audience?

I haven't watched Main Vaapas Aayunga yet, but it is very much on my list. I am genuinely happy that the film has grown slowly through word-of-mouth.

I have always loved the cinema of Imtiaz Ali-his films are soulful and philosophical, and they stay with you long after they end. The journey of Main Vaapas Aayunga only reinforces my belief that honest cinema may take time, but it always finds its audience.