Anushree Mehta to direct remake of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Bawarchi, says aware of ‘massive responsibility’

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The adaptation of the Hrishikesh Mukherjee feature will be the first movie out of the three-film collaboration between Jaadugar Films and Sameer Raj Sippy Productions. They will also remake timeless classics like Amitabh Bachchan-Jaya Bachchan starrer Mili (1975) and Gulzar’s iconic 1972 drama Koshish.

Anushree Mehta said directing the Bawarchi adaptation is a “kaleidoscopic combination” of her being excited, honoured and humbled. The filmmaker, however, added that she is aware of the “massive responsibility” that is riding on her.

“When my business partner Abir Sengupta (Jaadugar Films), Sameer Raj Sippy and I decided to join hands to produce these three iconic films, we were clear that we would leave no stone unturned in remaking them with utmost love and respect. During our discussion on Bawarchi, Abir and Sameer were of the opinion that I should be writing and directing the remake.

“They were convinced that I would be able to tell the story in a manner which would make them proud. We were in sync with our vision and I whole heartedly agreed to come board as the writer-director,” the filmmaker said in a statement.

Anushree said her remake of Bawarchi would be done with “sensitivity” as she intends to mount a wholesome “family films” which aligns with the current times.

“The idea of retelling a film is to adapt it according to the current times and make it more relatable to the world we live in today—while keeping the soul and purpose of the original intact. Since Bawarchi itself was a remake of a Bengali film, Hrishida in his time recreated it and made it relatable to that era.

“My attempt is going to be with a similar intention, to retell the classic story of Bawarchi in a way that the family audiences of all age groups can watch and enjoy the movie together. I’m aiming to create a wholesome, unforgettable family experience,” she added.

Anushree has finished writing the adaptation and hopes to get the film on floors in 2024. Casting of the film is underway, with makers looking to lock an A list star.