Amid Bollywood’s sea of movies focusing on love, heartbreak, friendship, and family, Aditya Kripalani’s film ‘Not Today’ addresses a topic rarely explored – suicide prevention. The project has garnered significant attention, not least because acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has officially extended his support. Kashyap recently launched the movie’s trailer, setting the stage for its YouTube premiere tomorrow.
The film is Kripalani’s fourth feature, and he hopes this will offer a lifeline to those grappling with suicidal thoughts. In an interview, he elaborates, “We know that when people experience a breakup, they turn to heartbreak songs. When friendships falter, people watch movies like ‘Dil Chahta Hai’. But what about something for those who are fighting suicidal thoughts? There are 400,000 people in this situation every year, and they, too, need films that give them hope and make them feel understood.”
‘Not Today’ zeroes in on a single critical day in the life of a young Muslim woman who discreetly begins working as a suicide prevention counselor. The narrative dives into her experiences and the lives she touches, offering a poignant look at both the struggles and hope surrounding mental health issues. Kripalani’s deliberate decision to make the film available for free on YouTube signifies his commitment to accessibility. The film will feature a QR code enabling viewers to donate directly to a Mumbai-based suicide prevention center.
Elaborating on this initiative, Kripalani shares, “All of us have lost someone, a friend or a family member, to suicide. It’s crucial that we understand these thoughts better. With this film, we aim to make a tangible impact. Every donation will go directly to a suicide prevention center, allowing us to offer concrete support to those in need.”
The director feels predominantly grateful for the support from his industry peers, including Sobhita Dhulipala, Vasan Bala, Shonali Bose, and notably, Anurag Kashyap. He reflects on the ease with which Kashyap came onboard, “Kashyap went through two years of depression. When I approached him, he was immediately supportive. He’s been there for me even when my previous films faced release hurdles.
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Notably, Kashyap’s backing of ‘Not Today’ is more than just professional courtesy. His involvement stems from personal experiences with depression, making his support deeply meaningful. Having faced his own mental health battles, Kashyap understands the significance of films like this one.
As the film gears up for its official release, the buzz within the industry is building. Actors, filmmakers, and other stakeholders have rallied around the project, recognizing its potential to bridge a critical gap in societal conversations on mental health. This wave of support underscores the industry’s readiness to tackle complex, often stigmatized issues like suicide.
Kripalani’s inspirations for the movie span both personal experiences and the broader cultural milieu. He acknowledged how films often influence social attitudes and emotions, and hopes ‘Not Today’ will pave the way for more movies that confront mental health topics head-on. “Cinema has a powerful impact on how we perceive the world and ourselves. It’s high time we use this medium to foster understanding and offer hope to those dealing with mental health challenges,” he asserts.
Anurag Kashyap also spoke about his alignment with the film’s mission. “Having been through the darkness of depression myself, I know firsthand how crucial it is to find something that can pull you back. ‘Not Today’ offers that lifeline. It’s not just a film; it’s a movement towards compassion and understanding.”
As the film’s release approaches, Kripalani is hopeful that the free YouTube availability and the donation initiative will not only stimulate discussions but also extend support to those in need. By merging cinema with a direct call to action, ‘Not Today’ stands as an innovative attempt to make tangible differences in people’s lives.
In conclusion, ‘Not Today’ is more than just another release in Bollywood’s prolific film calendar. It aims to be a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change, and an unflinching look at an aspect of mental health that demands our urgent attention. With industry heavyweights like Anurag Kashyap championing its cause, the film is poised to resonate widely, reaching people who need to hear its vital message the most.
