Imtiaz Ali Discusses Discrimination and His New Film 'Main Vaapas Aaunga'

Exploring Love Across Borders in 'Main Vaapas Aaunga'

Imtiaz Ali, the acclaimed writer-director, has unveiled his latest cinematic venture, Main Vaapas Aaunga. This film features a stellar cast including Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang Raina, Sharvari, and Diljit Dosanjh. Set against the backdrop of the Partition, it narrates a poignant love story that transcends decades and religious divides. In a recent episode of the podcast Baatein Dil Se, hosted by Navika Kumar, Imtiaz opened up about his experiences with discrimination in India.

Imtiaz Ali's Perspective on Discrimination

During his discussion with Kumar, Imtiaz expressed that he does not consider himself a particularly religious individual. He derives his moral compass from the films he watches, rather than religious teachings. When asked if his name, Imtiaz Ali, has led to any differential treatment, he confidently stated, "Not at all. I have never experienced any discrimination. If there were discrimination, I would be stopped from doing what I do."

Reflecting on his college days at Hindu College, he recounted a humorous incident where seniors attempted to make him write an apology letter for attending. He realized they were joking and took it in stride. Since making his directorial debut with Socha Na Tha in 2005, Imtiaz has created numerous cult classics, including Jab We Met, Love Aaj Kal, Rockstar, and Tamasha.

Imtiaz further clarified, "I don't see myself as a representative of any community. I believe my success is due to the love and support from the audience. My identity is not defined by religion but by my work and faith, which is significant to me."

Details About 'Main Vaapas Aaunga'

Alongside the main cast, Main Vaapas Aaunga features talents like Danish Pandor, Banita Sandhu, Kumud Mishra, Rajat Kapoor, Sanjay Suri, and Dolly Ahluwalia. The film's music is crafted by the renowned AR Rahman, with lyrics by Irshad Kamil, both of whom have collaborated with Imtiaz on previous projects. The screenplay is co-written by Nayanika Mahtani and edited by Aarti Bajaj, who has a history of working with Imtiaz on films like Jab We Met, Rockstar, Tamasha, and Highway. This marks the second collaboration between Imtiaz and Diljit Dosanjh, following their work on Amar Singh Chamkila, set to release in 2024.