Mani Ratnam is one of the finest jewels in the crown of cinema. Considered as one of the greatest Indian filmmakers, the director who turns 62 today, is credited with redefining the "range and depth” of cinema. His films have changed the way we visualize narratives and storytelling, setting new benchmarks. They are films we can return to again and again for an engaging, engrossing watch. From Nayakan to Roja, Dil Se, Bombay and Yuva, a Mani Ratnam film guarantees entertainment of lofty standards.

Here’s a peek into the mind of the down-to-earth genius, in his own words…

His attempt

“I am in mainstream filmmaking. I want to make a film that can reach as many as possible so I want to talk in a language which I can easily communicate with. But also, I want to say what I want to say and not what they necessarily want to hear so it is this combination, this intersection you are constantly attempting, trying to tell what you have to say in a language that is easily reachable.”

His effort

“The most important thing is, to be honest to this particular script, and not to start off with the intention of making a good film. It depends on the story and the characters. Each dictates its own rhythm.”

The pressure of being Mani Ratnam

“I ignore it. One knows where one stands, so there is no burden. The only burden is to make the film right, and constantly struggling to make it right. The pressure is enough to not only bring anyone down to earth but also take you a couple of feet under (chuckles).”

His honesty

“The journey of filmmaking is so amazing. You start off with great confidence and develop insecurity at the time of release. When you are ready with the finished product, you are constantly wondering if you have been honest to the story you started out with, if you got what you wanted. One is too close to the project by then to be objective. You never know if you have been true.”

His creative process

“Sometimes it is quick and happens fast. Sometimes the seed remains with you for a while, as is invariably the case with me, been with me for two-three films. Unlike in the West where an idea goes into development, with different departments taking over different stages of its development, we work differently here. Sometimes you have not found the writers to develop the script, so it remains with you for a while. After some time it falls into place. Everybody works this way. It is important that you have people around you with the same passion for good films, and have the same flair. That is as important as the story itself.”

Casting Right

“When it comes to casting for movies, it is a priority that you cast right. The guiding principle must be what is right for the movie, that is the basis you cast someone, not because so and so is a friend. It helps to have a wide choice, it makes filmmaking easier. But the priority must be the film, and to be clear about it. Of course, the person you want may not be available, say, then you go for the next best choice.”

His rationale

“As the soul of the film it has to work for you otherwise you don’t take it up at all. It takes two years of your life, you better be interested in it. When you know it’s something you can do well, that’s when you take it up. Tell it in a fashion which is entertaining, but still honest to your original thought so it’s a balance that you hit.”

His aim

“The most important thing is to be honest to this particular script, and not to start off with the intention of making a good film. It depends on the story, and the characters. Each dictates its own rhythm.”