Krishna Bhatt, the daughter of renowned filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, is making a mark for herself as a director with projects that revolve around interpersonal relationships. She has directed web shows like Maaya 3 and films like Badnaam in the past. Recently, Krishna released her latest web series titled Sanak-Ek Junoon. Starring Rohit Roy, Aindrita Ray, and Pawan Chopra among several others, the show revolves around love, power and ambition.
In an exclusive chat with PeepingMoon.com, Krishna spoke about directing Sanak-Ek Junoon and shared her experience of working with popular and senior actors like Rohit and Pawan. The filmmaker said she is partial towards stories orbitting around interpersonal relationships. Krishna further added that her father Vikram called Sanak-Ek Junoon her best work to date.
Excerpts from the interview:
How did you come up with the story of Sanak-Ek Junoon?
Sanak-Ek Junoon is written by my father (Vikram Bhatt). The show is basically about the addiction we have in life. We have an addiction to power, fame and money. Sometimes, that addiction comes in the way of your life. Rohit (Roy)’s character and his wife (Aindrita Ray) come to Mumbai from Indore and his thirst for success is so much that he is willing to put his life on the line. I love making shows on interpersonal relationships.
Sanak-Ek Junoon stars notable actors like Rohit Roy and Pawan Chopra. How was it working with them? Did they enhance the story with their creative inputs?
Working with Rohit sir and Pawan sir was a great experience. They are wonderful actors who are committed to the script and are mature, emotionally. I would often tell Rohit sir that he intimidates all actors with his experience. He would say, "Yaar, main kya karu?" There was a joke between us. Of course, they enhanced the script with their inputs. A good actor is someone who puts himself/herself into the show.
You’ve directed romantic thrillers for the OTT. Why? Is it the genre that you are comfortable with?
I directed a thriller called Badnaam on ZEE5, I have done Maaya 3, which is an interpersonal story, and Untouchable, a courtroom drama. I am open to doing everything but I’m partial towards interpersonal relationships.
According to you, why are projects based on interpersonal relationships a hit among the Indian audience?
I feel the audience wants to see a piece of them in what they watch. When you can relate to something, you often say, “Haan, maine bhi yeh feel kiya hai.” Relatability is something that is beautiful. There is nothing unrealistic shown in Sanak-Ek Junoon.
You’ve majorly directed projects for the OTT. Is Bollywood your next stop?
Hopefully, once the theatres open. There is something in the pipeline, let’s see.
Your father is a renowned director. Has he watched Sanak-Ek Junoon? What was his reaction?
Yes, he loved it. He said it is my best work. When my father praises me, it is like a breath of fresh air. It is like a plant in a desert, very rare.
Do you discuss your projects with him for his inputs before locking them?
Yes, of course. He has been here, he knows stories and knows how it is supposed to go. I obviously turn to him for advice and he supports me in whatever I do.
Being the daughter of Vikram Bhatt, do you feel any pressure as people have high expectations from you?
I feel the pressure all the time. There is a dream I have where 'Vikram Bhatt is Krishna Bhatt’s father'. If I achieve that, I’ll be in a state of bliss.