I have focussed on telling stories that matter to me & my audience: Madhur Bhandarkar

National Award-winning filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, who by his own admission loves to make “realistic films that hold a mirror to our society” was in Jaipur recently to address a session on the ‘Impact of films on Wellness’ at World Health and Wellness Fest. The maker of Chandni Bar, Fashion, Page 3, Traffic Signal, Babli Bouncer and India Lockdown, said that while commercial success of a film is important, he prefers to focus on “making relevant films” that strike a chord with the viewer. He said, “It has always been a conscious and humble effort to showcase realities of life and bring them on celluloid. I deliberately choose subjects which are close to the common man. But aisa nahi hai ki aise filmein banana bahut aasan kaam hai. It’s not that other film makers do not want to make such (realistic) films. Film banti hai, women-centric films aa rahi hai, lekin sab itna easy nahi hota. Predictably, all film producers want to focus on commercial success.”

Madhur who’s focussed on telling “stories that matter” to him and “eventually to my audience”, has also found it tough at times to get producers to finance his work. He said, “Once I narrated a script which had a powerful social message to a leading producer. He told me, ‘Aap batao kitne logo ko message karna hai, main sabko phone se message kar dunga. Lekin apke message ke liye 4 crore ki film nahi banaunga.’ That’s the reason why filmmakers are apprehensive about making films on subjects close to reality, most feel these films will find no takers.”

Madhur feels post the COVID pandemic there has been more awareness about mental health, with some celebs opening up about suffering from anxiety and depression. The director said, “Film industry folks are no different from others when it comes to having mental health issues. We might lead glamorous lives, but we’ve had our share of battles too in the last few years. It’s tougher for celebs to come out in the open and talk about having mental health issues. Even today when someone seeks professional help, it’s considered a taboo. I have tried to address mental health issues in my films in the past and will continue to do so in a way that people can empathise with the struggle.” The director added, “The lives of people in showbiz are under constant scrutiny. Even if celebs are unhappy, they feel obliged to post happy pictures and share merry statuses on social media.” Madhur who’s completed 25 years in showbiz, admits that there have been several times when he’s had hit a “creative block” and was unable to make films. On a parting note he said, “I am not part of any group in Bollywood. I am an independent filmmaker, and will stay that way. I have had my share of struggle, success and stability over the years. I have had creative blocks, but the excitement of telling a story is the only constant that drives me."