Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 14: Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has said that in times of global unrest, the need for entertainment that provides relief and hope becomes even more important.

Speaking about the role of cinema during difficult times, Ali said that while the world may be going through turmoil, his films are not meant to directly reflect the conflict but instead focus on what society is missing.

“I know that the world is in a terrible place right now, and I hope that things improve, but if I do get influenced by what’s going on in the world, it is not actually to make films about what is happening but somehow to make films about what should happen or what the world is missing right now,” he said.

Ali noted that art can highlight the absence of certain values in society and help people reflect on the deeper reasons behind conflict and suffering. He added that artists have a responsibility to present alternative perspectives that inspire a better world.
“This is the time for all artists to communicate an alternative way of looking, thinking and feeling to have a better world,” he said.

The filmmaker also addressed perceptions about filming in conflict-prone regions, noting that he has shot parts of his films such as Rockstar and Highway in Kashmir and found the experience peaceful.

“I have only had extremely cooperative people and peaceful situations. I’ve had more insecurity in every other place that I’ve shot. Kashmir has been the easiest place to shoot,” he said, adding that certain places are often labelled unsafe due to long-standing narratives.

Ali also pointed out that public perception can sometimes be misleading, citing how areas such as Dharavi are often considered unsafe despite many other places posing greater risks.

He further said that even when global tensions loom, life and creativity must continue. “We cannot wait for the ideal situation before making a move. It is important that we normalise the world as much as we can,” he said.

Ali is currently working on his upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga, which marks his second consecutive collaboration with actor Diljit Dosanjh after their previous hit Amar Singh Chamkila.

“This is going to be a Diljit who is very different from the previous film, and this is equally significant to him, maybe more. I’m always very happy to work with great actors, and Diljit is one of them. Personally, I am thrilled to work with him, and I hope to have more chances with him,” Ali said.