Hansal Mehta Reflects on the Impact of 'Citylights' After 11 Years

A Filmmaker's Favorite: 'Citylights'

Hansal Mehta has explored various genres in his filmmaking career, yet he holds 'Citylights' close to his heart.

'Citylights' serves as Mehta's tribute to the unseen individuals who inhabit the streets, often overlooked as we pass by in our vehicles. The film intimately portrays the struggles of a family, drawing viewers into their poignant reality with remarkable empathy.

The narrative unfolds as Deepak Singh (played by Rajkummar Rao, known for his understated performances), his wife Rakhi (Patralekha), and their young daughter transition from their modest life in Rajasthan to the bustling city of Mumbai. Their journey is marked by a harsh awakening to the realities of urban life, filled with disappointment and sorrow.

Many regard 'Citylights' as your finest work, Hansal.

Initially conceived as a remake, we never viewed the original 'Metro Manila,' and I still haven't. I've heard it might be superior, but 'Citylights' evolved into something uniquely ours.

Using Ritesh Shah's script as a foundation, we crafted our own narrative, deeply rooted in the shadows of the city, illuminated only by the flickers of hope we could muster.

The film radiates genuine authenticity.

The trains depicted were not mere symbols; they were integral to our filming locations. We captured scenes on platforms, within train compartments, and amidst crowds, making the city itself a vital character in our story.

Our filming relied on synchronized sound, with minimal equipment—just a few tube lights and a lot of faith.

Special recognition goes to the cinematographer.

Dev Agarwal, our courageous cinematographer, beautifully encapsulated the essence of the city during both the quiet dawn and the lively midnight hours.

Apurva Asrani's sensitive editing shaped the narrative in ways that still resonate with me. Vinod Rawat, our casting director and associate, discovered faces that were not acting but simply existing.

My son Jai, as the chief assistant, held everything together with a maturity beyond his years. Our crew, though small—only 25 members—worked with the fervor of a much larger team. It was chaotic, but in the best way.

How do you view 'Citylights' in your body of work?

'Citylights' reignited my passion for filmmaking. It was devoid of pretense, focusing purely on craft amidst chaos.

We filmed quickly and authentically, and in that rush, something pure emerged.

Rajkummar delivered what I believe to be his most powerful performance, portraying a man unraveling quietly, his dignity slowly eroding.

Patralekha's portrayal of Rakhi was heart-wrenching; her silent suffering spoke volumes.

Manav Kaul, in his debut significant role, commanded attention with his presence.

The music was a notable highlight.

'Muskurane' became a hit, but 'Soney Do...' remains etched in my memory as the film's defining song.

Similar to Bimal Roy's 'Do Bigha Zameen', 'Citylights' addresses rural migration.

'Citylights' tells the story of those often forgotten by the city—the migrants, the invisible, the unsung heroes of urban India.

It's ironic that my post about The Studio focused on empathy, particularly for those whose decisions limited the film's potential. However, I've learned to accept these contradictions as part of the creative journey.

Now, 11 years later, I yearn for that kind of experience again—the hunger and madness that made storytelling instinctual and cinema a means of survival.

I dedicate this reflection to the film we created, the lives it portrayed, and the connections it fostered—Mahesh Bhatt, Rajkummar, Patra, and Manav, my lifelong collaborators, friends, and family.

Here's to 'Citylights' and the lasting impression it leaves.

Was the final edit to your satisfaction?

The studio, perhaps out of insecurity, compelled us to produce a version I can't fully embrace.

The director's cut was raw and unrefined. It may have been lengthy or too subdued, but it possessed a soul.

That version is known to only a few. I hope it eventually sees the light of day.

I doubt it still exists; those drives have likely been recycled numerous times.