Kunal Khemu’s Directorial Debut: A Nostalgic Journey on the Madgaon Express
In an exclusive interview, Kunal Khemu reflects on his journey from acting to directing and shares insights about his directorial debut film ‘Madgaon Express.’ Join us as we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about Kunal’s memorable days in Bollywood.
Kunal Khemu’s Directorial Debut: A Nostalgic Journey on the Madgaon Express
In an exclusive interview with Kunal Khemu, the talented actor turned director, we delve into his experiences and reflections on his journey from acting to directing. Making his directorial debut with the upcoming film ‘Madgaon Express,’ produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, Kunal shares insights about the film’s name, his inspiration, and the support he received from the dynamic duo. Join us as we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about Kunal’s memorable days in Bollywood, including his roles in iconic films like ‘Raja Hindustani’ and ‘Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke.’
( Credit to: Timesofindia )
A Dream Trip to Goa
Kunal Khemu recalls his unexpected first trip to Goa during his college days. Although it was more of a dream than a planned excursion, Kunal and his friends took a risk and hopped on the Madgaon Express to Goa. Despite their initial disappointment with the lack of architectural and cultural sites, they decided to explore the beach, ride a Kinetic, indulge in seafood, and do some sightseeing. Looking back, Kunal appreciates the cultural experiences, which may not have seemed exciting at the time.
Inspiration for ‘Madgaon Express’
The name of the film, ‘Madgaon Express,’ and the integration of a train journey were influenced by Kunal’s personal experience. His first trip to Goa on the Madgaon Express left a significant impact on him, making it a fitting choice for a story set in Goa.
Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Influence
Kunal Khemu acknowledges the influence of Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, the producers of ‘Madgaon Express,’ on his journey as a director, actor, and producer. Kunal draws inspiration from Farhan Akhtar’s debut film ‘Dil Chahta Hai,’ which also involved a Goa trip. Farhan and Ritesh provided immense support and creative freedom, allowing Kunal to execute the film exactly as he had envisioned.
The Natural Progression to Directing
Having explored various roles in the film industry, including acting and writing, Kunal Khemu always had a subconscious inclination towards directing. When the opportunity to direct ‘Madgaon Express’ arose, Kunal embraced it wholeheartedly, considering it a natural progression in his career.
From Acting to Directing
Transitioning from acting to directing has been a liberating experience for Kunal. It has allowed him to fully immerse himself in storytelling and bring his vision to life. Every day on set has been exhilarating, and Kunal cherishes every moment of his directorial debut.
Proud of the Final Product
Kunal Khemu expresses his pride in the final product of ‘Madgaon Express.’ While he takes responsibility for the end result, he acknowledges that it has been a team effort, with everyone’s contributions playing a crucial role.
What Makes a Good Film
According to Kunal, satisfaction and instinct play crucial roles in making a good film. There is no formula for success; it is a creative endeavor driven by emotions and storytelling. Ultimately, it is about connecting with the audience on a deeper level.
Learning from Mentors
Kunal Khemu acknowledges the valuable lessons he has learned from the directors he has worked with in the past. From Mahesh Bhatt to Rohit Shetty, each director has served as a mentor, shaping Kunal’s approach to filmmaking.
Memories from the ‘Madgaon Express’
Kunal shares his mixed experiences of traveling by train, including a sense of community and camaraderie among passengers, as well as the challenges when seats weren’t confirmed. The ‘Madgaon Express’ journey holds a special place in his heart and fosters connections with strangers.
Soha’s Reaction and Support
Kunal Khemu reveals that Soha, his wife, had an amusing and supportive reaction when he told her about directing the film. While she hasn’t seen the final product yet, she has been involved in the reviewing process and has provided valuable feedback.
Cherished Memories from Past Films
Reflecting on his career, Kunal cherishes the memories of working with Aamir Khan, Juhi Chawla, and Karishma Kapoor in films like ‘Hum Hai Rahi Pyaar Ke’ and ‘Raja Hindustani.’ He admires their professionalism and dedication, which have been inspiring throughout his journey in the industry.
Looking Forward to ‘Golmaal 5’
Kunal Khemu expresses his excitement for the possibility of ‘Golmaal 5’ and reuniting with the cast for another enjoyable ride. Just like the fun experiences on the ‘Madgaon Express,’ Kunal believes that ‘Golmaal 5’ will be a blast.
Conclusion
Kunal Khemu’s directorial debut with ‘Madgaon Express’ is a culmination of his passion for storytelling and his journey in the film industry. Inspired by his own experiences, supported by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, and driven by a desire to entertain, Kunal has created a film that promises to take the audience on a nostalgic trip to Goa. As he reflects on his career and looks forward to future projects, Kunal’s journey from acting to directing is a testament to his versatility and dedication to the craft.