Director Rocky Mulchandani is taking Hindi cinema in a fresh direction with his upcoming biopic on Raju Kalakar, a Surat-based puppeteer who became an internet sensation earlier this year with his heartfelt rendition of Dil Pe Chalai Churiya. The project aims to tell the inspiring story of Kalakar’s rise from personal and professional setbacks to becoming a symbol of determination and love.
Mulchandani says it was Raju Kalakar’s simplicity and resilience that drew him to the story. “When I first met Raju, I was struck by his honesty. He had been running his father’s doll manufacturing business, but when he couldn’t repay a loan, his wife left him. Despite the hardships, Raju worked tirelessly, rebuilt his life, and won back his wife’s heart,” says Mulchandani.
The director highlights how Raju’s story showcases the importance of putting in effort to fix personal relationships. In an era where many marriages end over ego clashes, Raju’s journey offers a hopeful message that things can be mended with dedication and hard work.
Currently in the process of scripting the film, Mulchandani has set his sights on two stellar actors for the lead role. “Pratik Gandhi and Nawazuddin Siddiqui are on our wish list. I’ve worked with Pratik before on an ad in 2020, and I admire both actors for their versatility and talent,” shares the director.
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Mulchandani plans to take the biopic to the big screen by November. The film will focus on Kalakar’s struggles, triumphs, and his deep connection with the art of puppetry.
As a director, Mulchandani is no stranger to unique stories his 2021 Gujarati film EkDe Ek was well-received. With his latest venture, he aims to inspire audiences with a real-life tale of hope and perseverance.