Sooraj Barjatya Unveils New Web Show 'Marble' on Jio Hotstar
Sooraj Barjatya's New Venture
Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya, renowned for his heartfelt narratives about love and family in classics like "Maine Pyar Kiya" and "Hum Aapke Hain Koun," is set to launch his latest web series titled "Marble." This show, which he is producing, is scheduled to debut on Jio Hotstar on February 26th. In an exclusive discussion, Barjatya shares insights about his new project and his ongoing film, "Yeh Prem Mol Liya," featuring Ayushmann Khurrana.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Barjatya reflects on the universal struggle of balancing personal and professional commitments. He notes that everyone faces moments where they must prioritize family, career, and personal choices. As filmmakers, the immersive nature of a project can make everything outside of it feel distant.
In "Marble," the characters Amrita and Aditya navigate similar dilemmas between love and responsibility, highlighting themes of gender equality.
Clarifying Inspirations Behind 'Marble'
Despite some claims that the show draws inspiration from the film "Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi," Barjatya clarifies that the narrative is distinct. It encompasses multiple stories that reflect the interconnectedness of lives, offering a fresh perspective that spans from 1988 to 2026, a narrative style not previously explored in his films.
Adapting to Changing Times
Post-pandemic, there were discussions about the viability of romantic and family dramas in theaters. Barjatya acknowledges the evolving landscape and admits to experimenting with new ideas, though not all were successful. He emphasizes the importance of understanding current trends while remaining true to one's creative vision.
The Significance of Family Stories
Barjatya expresses his belief in the importance of family narratives in cinema, stating that while he enjoys creative freedom, he prioritizes entertainment in these stories. He recognizes the audience's desire for variety and aims to create more family-oriented tales that resonate emotionally, as true success lies in evoking laughter or tears.
The Legacy of 'Prem'
The recurring name 'Prem' for his protagonists has an interesting backstory. While developing the script for "Maine Pyar Kiya," various names were considered, but the name 'Prem' was inspired by a character from a previous film produced by his grandfather, Tarachand Barjatya. This choice was also a hopeful nod to good fortune.
Unpredictability of Audience Reception
Reflecting on his 40-year career, Barjatya acknowledges the unpredictability of audience preferences. He shares that often, what he anticipated to be a hit did not resonate, while unexpected elements gained popularity. His focus remains on delivering quality work with honesty and dedication.
Empowered Heroines in His Films
Barjatya's heroines are often portrayed as strong and assertive. He explains that this strength is a natural reflection of Indian culture, where the essence of power in women is inherent, ensuring the safety and stability of family life.