Ishita Moitra, the co-writer of “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” discusses the film’s distinctiveness with Hindustan Times. Directed by Karan Johar, the movie captivates audiences with its lavish sets, nostalgic nods to Bollywood, and bold, dignified kiss. Intriguing insights were revealed!

 

Celebrating Regional Diversity:

Moitra defends the portrayal of Bengali and Punjabi clichés, drawing from her own experiences and observations. The film’s protagonist, Rani, goes through a transformative journey, and these elements serve to enrich her character development.

Humorous Misidentification:

Moitra justifies Rocky’s confusion, attributing it to his limited knowledge. Such mix-ups are common, she asserts, highlighting the portrayal’s authenticity of Bengali households in the movie.

Fearless Social Commentary:

Praising Karan Johar’s audacity, Moitra highlights his past films’ inclusion of gay characters and a thought-provoking line like “My name is Khan and I am not a terrorist.” The director’s socially aware and intelligent approach to storytelling sets him apart.

 

A Nostalgic Homage:

Moitra reveals that the film’s grand sets, dance numbers, and background dancers are intended as a homage to iconic Hindi films. The use of classic songs evokes a sense of nostalgia among the audience, further cementing the film’s connection to Bollywood’s golden era.

Distinguishing the Bengali Look:

Moitra clarifies the differences between Alia Bhatt’s Bengali look and Deepika Padukone’s character in “Piku.” The distinct wardrobe choices, including sarees and kajal, set Alia’s character apart, ensuring that the two films are not confused.

Diligent Dialect Coaching:

Comparing Shabana Azmi and Alia Bhatt’s performances, Moitra praises both actresses for their dedication to mastering the Bengali dialect. While Azmi’s exposure to Bengali culture provided an edge, Bhatt’s efforts in ensuring authenticity shine through.

The Bold Kiss:

Contrary to popular disbelief, Moitra confirms that the kiss between Dharmendra and Shabana Azmi was always a part of the script. Karan Johar handled the scene with dignity, and both actors were comfortable with the portrayal.

Tailored for Jaya Bachchan:

Ishita Moitra reveals that Jaya Bachchan was always the intended choice for her role in the film. Each character was crafted with the actor in mind, adding depth and resonance to the performances.

“Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” fearlessly celebrates diversity and honors Bollywood’s glorious past. Under Karan Johar’s visionary direction and the talented cast’s dedication, the film promises a grand celebration of Hindi cinema.