Exploring the Creative Universe of Vinod Kumar Shukla in 'Chaar Phool Hain Aur Duniya Hai'

Achal Mishra's documentary, 'Chaar Phool Hain Aur Duniya Hai', offers an intimate look at the life and thoughts of renowned Hindi writer Vinod Kumar Shukla. Through conversations with actor Manav Kaul and insights from Shukla's family, the film captures the essence of his creative process and philosophy. Set to premiere at the Dharamshala International Film Festival, this 54-minute documentary unfolds like a chapter from Shukla's literary works, inviting viewers to appreciate the depth of his writing and the significance of rootedness in culture. Discover the nuances of Shukla's life and the artistic journey that shaped his celebrated career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 24, 2025, 11:15 IST

A Glimpse into the Documentary

Achal Mishra's latest film, Chaar Phool Hain Aur Duniya Hai, completed in April 2023, reflects the patience required in the creative process, as highlighted by its subject. The film, which was made in 2022, emphasizes that not everything needs to be produced instantly.

The Essence of Vinod Kumar Shukla

This documentary is crafted from moments shared with the esteemed Hindi author Vinod Kumar Shukla in his Raipur home. It features a dialogue between Shukla and actor-writer Manav Kaul, who is gaining recognition in his own right. The film is set to debut at the Dharamshala International Film Festival from November 7 to 10.

The Journey of Creation

The project originated from a meeting between Mishra, Kaul, and screenwriter Nihal Parashar in March 2022. When Kaul mentioned his intention to visit Shukla, Mishra accompanied him with cameras and sound equipment.

Mishra has long admired Shukla's work, initially through translations and later in the original Hindi. He noted, “Shukla's writing possesses a child-like innocence that feels uncalculated.”

Capturing the Creative Process

The 54-minute film was developed over two afternoons. During the first session, Mishra filmed Kaul interviewing Shukla about his creative philosophy. The 87-year-old author discusses how writers should respond to adaptations of their work, referencing Mani Kaul’s film Naukar Ki Kameez, based on Shukla's novel.

Shukla, a Sahitya Akademi Award recipient, shares insights on the significance of being rooted in one's culture, suggesting that the most universal ideas stem from local experiences.

A Personal Touch

The film also features an interview with Shukla's son, Shashwat Gopal. Mishra aimed to keep the focus away from Kaul, stating, “Some of Manav's ideas didn’t resonate with me.”

Mishra has been following Gopal's photographic endeavors of his father and was inspired by a speech Gopal gave about Shukla, which revealed a deep bond of love and sincerity.

A Unique Perspective

On his second visit, Mishra documented Shukla's daily life, capturing moments like meals and leisurely walks on his terrace. The decision to keep the film within the confines of Shukla's home was intentional, reflecting the author's belief that a house can represent a universe.

Rather than providing a comprehensive biography, Chaar Phool Hain Aur Duniya Hai offers a taste of Shukla's thoughts, akin to a chapter from his literary works.

Unaddressed Controversies

The documentary does not delve into Shukla's recent allegations regarding unpaid royalties, a controversy that surfaced during the film's production.

Mishra acknowledged that had circumstances been different, the film might have taken another direction. The editing process spanned two years, during which he revisited the footage multiple times.

A Deepening Appreciation

“I kept discovering more of Shukla’s work and grew to appreciate him even more,” Mishra reflected. “I felt fortunate to have the chance to visit him.”

Also read:

Vinod Kumar Shukla: An artist forever seeking to be one with his conscientious creation

Writer Vinod Kumar Shukla’s allegations remind us of the author versus publisher battle no one wants

Manav Kaul interview: ‘I am 98 per cent a writer, the remaining two per cent, everything else’