In a remarkable feat of multitasking, acclaimed filmmaker Shoojit Sircar finds himself wearing multiple hats as he juggles the roles of director and producer while working on his latest project, “The Umesh Chronicles.” With a star-studded cast featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Babil Khan, and Kriti Panth, the film is all set to make its mark at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne on August 22nd. Sircar describes this cinematic venture, helmed by director Pooja Kaul, as particularly dear to his heart. “We worked with Jakob Ihre, known for his impressive cinematography in Chernobyl, whom I’ve known since he shot Yahaan back in 2005. Producing is a challenging task for me, so I rely heavily on my partner Ronnie Lahiri to handle most of the logistical duties, while I focus on the creative side. This movie beautifully captures the nostalgic tranquility of life during the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. It tells the story of a girl growing up, which was a delightful narrative to bring to the screen,” he shares with a smile.
However, for Shoojit Sircar, the journey on “The Umesh Chronicles” is more than just a professional endeavor; it’s a personal mission. The film marks his first collaboration with Babil Khan, the son of his late friend and legendary actor Irrfan Khan. Naturally, Sircar feels a deep sense of responsibility and protectiveness towards Babil. “I was always worried about Babil. I was very close to Irrfan, and for Babil, I think like a parent. I feel a considerable responsibility for him. Babil and his mother Sutapa Sikdar often visit my office, reminiscent of how Irrfan used to. Over cups of chai and plates of jhalmuri, we talk about movies and life,” he reveals.
The challenge for Shoojit goes beyond the realms of production and direction; it extends to mentorship. “Babil must approach his career one film at a time. The pressure of living up to his father’s legacy can be immense and it’s essential for him to remain focused and sane when making his choices.
. He has the talent and the potential to become a star, but he must balance this with an understanding of his own motivations and the reasons he’s pursuing this path. It’s his career, not Irrfan’s. He should never lose sight of why he is doing what he’s doing, and avoid getting lost in the glitz and glamour,” advises Sircar.
Adding an additional layer of excitement to “The Umesh Chronicles” is the participation of Amitabh Bachchan, an actor who has become a regular fixture in Sircar’s films, including the unreleased “Shoebite,” the critically acclaimed “Piku” (2015), and the quirky “Gulabo Sitabo” (2020). Sircar highlights the importance of a compelling script in securing Bachchan’s involvement. “It’s always the script. That’s my biggest learning after years of collaborating with him. If he connects with the story, you’ve won him over. He has been our unwavering support system. Much of my recognition in the industry is because he agreed to do my films. He instilled in me the significance of the written word.”
Taking on the dual roles of director and producer while guiding a young actor under pressure is a task few would envy. Yet Sircar seems to relish the challenge, finding joy both in his work and in his role as a mentor to Babil Khan. The film’s nostalgic aesthetic, coupled with its heartfelt narrative, promises to create a meaningful cinematic experience reflective of a bygone era, while also showcasing the raw potential of a rising star.
Sircar’s devotion to this project and to Babil speaks volumes about his character and commitment to both cinema and personal relationships. His approach provides a comforting assurance to Babil, allowing him the space to grow into his own as an actor without the overwhelming shadow of his father’s legacy.
As “The Umesh Chronicles” gears up to premiere at the prestigious Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, the film stands as a testament to Shoojit Sircar’s multifaceted talents and his heartfelt commitment to nurturing the next generation of talents, all while creating movies that touch the soul.
