Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 2: Filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia, known for directing late actor Irrfan Khan in films like Paan Singh Tomar, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns, Haasil, and Charas, admitted that the actor’s demise has deeply affected his approach to storytelling and creative writing.
In an interview with ANI, Dhulia reflected on how Irrfan’s absence has changed his ability to craft intricate scenes. “If he was in the film, I could spread my wings further. I could write an intricate scene knowing that it would be performed by Irrfan. I could make the character and situation more complex, which I can’t do now,” he shared.
Clarifying that he doesn’t suffer from writer’s block, Dhulia explained, “You know you can write a scene, but the actors won’t be able to do it.” He admitted that Irrfan’s passing affected him deeply, both creatively and personally. “His passing away impacted my creative process, in everything. He was my friend.”
Dhulia and Irrfan Khan shared a longstanding bond, having been classmates at the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi. Their friendship extended into their professional careers, making Irrfan an integral part of many of Dhulia’s acclaimed films.
Bollywood and the Need for Genuine Friendships
The director also spoke about the importance of friendships in Bollywood, calling the industry an “insecure place.” He emphasized how crucial it is to have close confidants in the film industry, saying, “You need a lot of good friends here. Every person feels weak at times, but if they express it to an acquaintance, it could be used against them.”
Expressing his personal struggle, he added, “I don’t have one [a close friend] right now. I cannot open myself up to anybody. It’s a problem.”
Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Acclaimed Work
Tigmanshu Dhulia gained international recognition with Paan Singh Tomar, which premiered at the 2010 BFI London Film Festival and won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in 2012. His thriller drama Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster also earned critical acclaim. Apart from directing, Dhulia is widely known for his role as Ramadhir Singh in Anurag Kashyap’s cult classic Gangs of Wasseypur.