Home / Arts and Entertainment / Rai Puts Story Above Ego, Calls Imtiaz Ali Over 'Raanjhanaa'
Rai Puts Story Above Ego, Calls Imtiaz Ali Over 'Raanjhanaa'
15 Oct
Summary
- Filmmaker prioritizes story over director's ego.
- Rai contacted Imtiaz Ali before 'Raanjhanaa' for clarity.
- Key principles include intent, honesty, and being egoless.
Filmmaker Aanand L Rai has articulated his core philosophy, stating that the narrative of a film should always be prioritized above a director's personal ego. He believes that when a story needs to be told, it should be brought to life.
Rai recalled a significant conversation with Imtiaz Ali during the pre-production phase of his film 'Raanjhanaa.' Hearing Ali discuss his film 'Rockstar,' Rai felt a need to connect to ensure their creative territories were distinct. He contacted Ali to understand the world being explored, offering to step aside if they were pursuing the same artistic vision.
The director further elaborated on his guiding principles, stressing the importance of intent, honesty, and working without ego. He advised other filmmakers to "Be slave to the story, nobody else." Rai is currently backing two productions under Colour Yellow Productions: 'Nakhrewaalii,' scheduled for release on October 30, 2026, and 'Nayyi Navelli,' set for release on October 16, 2026.
