It has been ten full orbits around the sun since ‘2 States’, the cinematic adaptation of Chetan Bhagat’s bestselling novel, graced the silver screens and captured the imaginations of millions across the nation. Today, the film’s leading man, Arjun Kapoor, took to the digital realm to commemorate this milestone. A decade ago, the story of Krish and Ananya began, uniting two divergent cultures on a platform of love and understanding.
Right from the heart of the film industry, where dreams take shape and find their pulse in the theaters, actor Arjun Kapoor shared a heartfelt video, a seamless blend of behind-the-scenes footage juxtaposed with memorable sequences from ‘2 States’. His voice, resonant with emotion and gratitude, could be heard expressing the profound impact cinema has on life, the privilege of being a part of such a seminal project, and his thanks to all those who joined him on this journey. He remarked, “Nothing greater than the impact cinema translates into everyday life. I’m so so grateful to be a part of this very special film and beyond grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey. Today as we complete 10 years of this film all I have to say is ‘Story mein hero ho ya na ho story hero honi chahiye aur yeh waali story toh definitely hero thi’.”
The celebration extended beyond Arjun’s personal page, reaching the virtual abode of reputed filmmaker Karan Johar. His production house Dharma Productions, known for its role in shaping the trajectory of Indian cinema over the years, was the force behind the film’s making. With one iconic scene from ‘2 States’ shared on his Instagram stories, Karan penned a note reminiscent of the film’s journey, calling it “One Love. The most amazing journey filled with warmth.”
Under the guidance of director Abhishek Varman, the film brought to life the story of Krish Malhotra – an archetype of the academic elite, an IIT graduate advancing to his MBA at IIM Ahmedabad. A young man from an affluent Punjabi Hindu family, Krish finds his heart stolen by a classmate – Ananya Swaminathan. Ananya, like the strains of a contrasting rhythm, comes from a Tamil Brahmin family, warm with the flavors of Chennai’s rich culture. What unfolds is not just their love story but a dance of complex cultural differences that both must navigate to unite their families and secure their future together.
The path to the silver screen was not a straight line for ‘2 States’. The film was originally to sail with different stars, as leading roles were first envisioned for Saif Ali Khan and Priyanka Chopra. It was later speculated that Shah Rukh Khan and Asin Thottumkal would headline the film, under none other than Vishal Bhardwaj’s directorship. Even Imran Khan was once tapped to portray Krish, but fate had other plans as he went on to choose ‘Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola’.
Indeed, Arjun Kapoor and Alia Bhatt’s performances as Krish and Ananya are now inseparable from the legacy of ‘2 States’. As audiences reminisce the decade past, their chemistry continues to be celebrated for its authenticity and charm, defining roles that established them as actors of formidable talent.
As the film industry and audiences alike pause to reflect on the ten years since ‘2 States’ added a colorful chapter to the narrative of Indian cinema, the contribution of all artists involved remains enduring. For those who walked the path from Chetan Bhagat’s words to the film’s depiction, the anniversary is no less than a festival, celebrating a story that resonated with many and continues to hold a special place in the annals of cinematic history.
