Siddharth P Malhotra, who recently helmed the Netflix film ‘Maharaj’ said his film ‘Hichki’ which was led by Rani Mukerji was supposed to have a male lead. The filmmaker also added that he was referred to as ‘mad’ after he narrated the story of the film which had no romance angle and just a teacher struggling with the Tourette's Syndrome. 

He said, "The entire world told me you're mad; it's a non-commercial film without a hero, no romance angle, and a teacher who has Tourette's Syndrome.” Further adding, that it was Aditya Chopra, who entered the scenario after five years and motivated Siddharth to make the film but with a suggested change that he will change the male role to female role. The filmmaker said, "You will make this film. Just one thing, change it from male to female."

The film also marked Rani’s comeback to the big screen and was a successful venture.

Siddharth’s latest directorial ’Maharaj’ featured Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan making his debut with it alongside Shalini Pandey, Sharvari and Jaideep Ahlawat in the lead roles. The film was put on a stay by the court after the complaint was filed on it however the courts later lifted the ban stating that there was nothing controversial about the film for which the ban was imposed.

Despite its hold which hampered the release of the film, it has been well revived by the audience and Junaid was also praised for his choice of making unconventional debut in the industry. The film is currently streaming on Netflix and is a joint collaboration of the streaming platform with the YRF.