In a world where writers are often regarded as mere tools in the vast machinery of filmmaking, Nikhil Mehrotra’s experience stands as a testament to the power of creative vision. Known for his compelling sports dramas like Dangal (2016) and Panga (2020), Mehrotra is gearing up for the release of his latest project, Mr & Mrs Mahi. Despite the genre being termed as sports drama, Mehrotra contends that the essence of his films goes beyond the playing field and delves deep into human emotions and relationships.
The film Mr & Mrs Mahi reunites actors Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor after their previous collaboration, Roohi. The movie tells the tale of a doctor whose latent talent for cricket is discovered by her husband, a former cricketer himself. It’s a narrative that merges the worlds of love and sport, making the sport itself almost ancillary to the primary story of human connection.
For Mehrotra, the alignment between story and emotional depth is critical. “If Panga was just about kabaddi, would it land? No, it had to be a woman’s story who leaves the sport and returns to it,” he explains. “With Mr & Mrs Mahi, I was excited about telling the story of cricket and a couple.”
This marks another collaboration with director Sharan Sharma, following their successful partnership in Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020). Mehrotra describes this reunion as a blessing, citing an intrinsic understanding and alignment of vision with Sharma. “It’s a blessing working with people who understand what you are trying to say even before you say it. He is aligned with my vision,” said Mehrotra.
Historically, the role of a writer in filmmaking has often been understated, with numerous stories of their voices being overshadowed by directors and producers. Mehrotra considers himself fortunate for having his opinion respected and valued in his projects. He credits Dharma Productions, the studio behind Mr & Mrs Mahi, for fostering a collaborative environment. “My opinion has always mattered. Take this film for example—my opinion was sought on casting. I was expected to be there at the shoot. Dharma Productions make you feel valued. Your vision is respected, and when it is put on screen, your opinion is sought,” Mehrotra elaborates.
. “I’m grateful to have only worked with those who value others’ creative opinions.”
This platform of respect and consideration, however, is contrasted starkly with Mehrotra’s prior experience with his film Bawaal (2023). The film received critical backlash for its controversial parallels between a married couple’s struggles and the Holocaust, a discourse that left Mehrotra pondering the impact of social narratives on creative work. “It impacts a writer. A part of society loved it. When I met creators and writers, they asked a lot of questions. We had expected that when we wrote the film.”
Speaking on the volatility of today’s social media-driven world, Mehrotra acknowledges that the increasing scrutiny makes filmmakers more cautious. He notes, “Outrageous can have many interpretations. Due to social media, the flak and opinions have multiplied. So, we are more mindful.”
Mr & Mrs Mahi brings fresh perspectives to the forefront, not just in terms of thematic substance but also in terms of out-and-out creative collaboration. Mehrotra emphasizes the emotional core of the narrative, ensuring that cricket serves as a backdrop rather than the central theme. The relationship dynamics between the lead characters, portrayed by Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor, provide the emotional weight and complexity that Mehrotra is known for.
The significance of creative synergy cannot be overstated. Mehrotra’s journey in Mr & Mrs Mahi highlights the growing respect for the writer’s vision in filmmaking, fostering a collaborative ecosystem where every creative voice is heard. This could signal a shift in how the industry values the role of the writer, particularly in narrative-driven dramas.
Ultimately, Nikhil Mehrotra’s insights offer a beacon of hope to writers who aspire to see their visions respectfully translated onto the silver screen. “I’m grateful to have only worked with those who value others’ creative opinions,” Mehrotra reiterates, hinting at a more inclusive future for creative storytellers in the film industry.
As Mr & Mrs Mahi gears up for release, all eyes will be on how this narrative of love and sport resonates with audiences, and how the industry responds to the evolving role of writers in the cinematic process.
