'Iqbal' clocks 20; Nagesh Kukunoor says 'no arrogance, just wonderful memories'; Shreyas Talpade calls it a life-changing film

Two decades after its release, Iqbal continues to hold a special place in the hearts of both its makers and audiences. Directed by Nagesh Kukunoor and starring Shreyas Talpade in a breakthrough role, the film was released in 2005 and went on to become a critical and commercial success. It even won the National Film Award for Best Film on other social issues. Looking back, Kukunoor says the journey remains as precious as ever. “When I look back on Iqbal, 20 years later, it’s a wonderful memory. That’s about it. There’s no arrogance there that I made a film like Iqbal,” he recalled in an interview with News 18.

The director described the shoot as one of the most joyous experiences of his career. “It was a fabulous world that I got to create for the first time in my life. So, it will always be special. When it worked, I was very happy,” he added.

Shreyas Talpade reflects on a turning point

For Shreyas Talpade, who played the deaf and mute aspiring cricketer Iqbal, the film remains life-defining. “It’s a cliched thing to say that it feels like yesterday but it genuinely does. There are certain films that change everything in your life and Iqbal is one such film. It changed my dreams and aspirations,” he shared while thanking Kukunoor, Subhash Ghai, Rahul Puri and Elahe Hiptoola for believing in him.

Shreyas also revealed a touching moment that highlighted the film’s enduring legacy. “Yesterday, a little girl, maybe seven or eight years old, came to me and said, ‘Hello uncle, I’ve seen your film Iqbal ten times.’ I was shocked and humbled,” he said.

Talks of a possible re-releaseWhile Shreyas believes a re-release would have been a fitting tribute to mark the film’s 20th anniversary, Kukunoor remains cautiously optimistic. “I’ve heard some talks about it. Let’s see if it happens. Maybe a new generation will see it or maybe they won’t,” he stated.

Whether or not it returns to the big screen, 'Iqbal' remains a rare film that blends heart, hope, and cricket into a touching story that still inspires new audiences today.






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