Hansal Mehta's Gandhi: A Deep Dive into the Life of a Revolutionary Icon
Exploring the Vision Behind Gandhi
When it comes to impactful cinema, Hansal Mehta stands out as a true pioneer. His films like Shahid, Aligarh, Citylights, and Faraaz have consistently delivered powerful narratives. Recently, he has captivated audiences with his storytelling prowess through various web series. As he prepares to unveil the first season of Gandhi, he describes this moment as a pivotal chapter in his impressive career spanning over three decades, filled with more highs than lows.
A Journey Back to TIFF
The series, which focuses on the Father of the Nation, premiered two episodes at the Toronto International Film Festival, reminiscent of his earlier work, Shahid, which also graced TIFF in 2012. Reflecting on the standing ovation he received, Hansal expresses his excitement about bringing Gandhi to life on the big screen, especially for content typically reserved for streaming platforms. He emphasizes the significance of this project, stating, "You live to tell such a story. Gandhi is arguably the most influential Indian in history, and using my craft to portray this narrative on such a grand scale is an unprecedented opportunity for me."
A Unique Portrayal of Gandhi
However, Hansal clarifies that his interpretation of Gandhi is not a direct comparison to The Crown. While the concept was inspired by the acclaimed series, he assures that the similarities end there. Currently focused on finalizing the last four episodes of the eight-part series, he refrains from discussing intricate details but promises that viewers will see Gandhi as a relatable human being first and foremost.
Humanizing a Historical Figure
Hansal states, "Gandhi has often been idolized, which prevents us from recognizing him as the person he truly was. To me, he is not just Mahatma but Mohan. I believe there is a bit of Gandhi in each of us, reflecting the journey of today's youth."
Addressing Modern Misconceptions
In recent times, criticism of Gandhi has become somewhat trendy. Hansal argues that the current generation's perception of Gandhi is often shaped by misinformation circulating on social media. He encourages informed discussions, stating, "Critique or praise him, but do so with knowledge. My aim is not to alter your views but to guide you towards a more informed perspective."
Research and Character Development
Drawing from the well-researched works of historian Ramchandra Guha, Hansal found little need for extensive additional research, aside from checking bibliographic references for specific scenes. Like his previous series, including Scam and Scoop, he is more invested in character development and personal journeys, making Gandhi a deeply personal project for him. He believes that Pratik Gandhi, who has portrayed Gandhi on stage for years, is an ideal choice for the role.
The Art of Acting
For Hansal, acting transcends mere imitation of real-life figures. He emphasizes that his Scam 1992 actor Pratik has not replaced his other favorite, Rajkummar Rao, humorously stating, "It’s like saying I prefer my younger daughter over the elder one." Interestingly, while he typically seeks out actors rather than stars, Gandhi features several prominent names, including Tom Felton and James Murray, the latter of whom played Prince Andrew in The Crown. Hansal explains that a film of this magnitude about Gandhi necessitated a large cast, and these actors are exceptionally talented.
A Desire to Tell Diverse Stories
Despite not chasing star power, the director of The Buckingham Murders holds no grudges against superstars. His primary motivation is to share a multitude of stories, whether factual or fictional. Thus, OTT platforms have become essential for his storytelling. Although his production company is named True Story Films, he seeks to uncover the truth within individual narratives. He asserts that characters like Gandhi or marginalized individuals embody themes of justice and injustice, reflecting their life experiences.
Looking Ahead
With upcoming projects like Scam Season 3, the second season of Scoop, and a Hindi film with innovative Malayalam director Lijo Jose Pellissery, Gandhi is poised to be a significant highlight in his career, representing "an agent of change."
The Power of Cinema
Hansal believes that cinema can indeed change the world, serving as a catalyst for discussion and debate. He asserts, "Change must come from us, the people, and thus, the Gandhi within us all."
Anticipation for Gandhi's Release
Prepare for a thought-provoking experience when Gandhi announces its release date and streaming partner. As Gandhi famously stated, 'My life is my message,' Hansal concludes, "In our journeys, there lies a message we must recognize to create a better world."