In an exclusive revelation during the Mid-day’s Sit With Hitlist, acclaimed director Imtiaz Ali shared intriguing insights about casting Alia Bhatt in his film “Highway.” The journey began when he met Alia accompanied by her mother, Soni Razdan, at the screening of “Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana.” It was an encounter that marked a significant turning point, not only in their professional relationship but also in Bollywood storytelling.
Ali initially intended to cast an older woman, around 30 years of age, who would naturally embody the emotional gravitas required for the role. However, this perception shifted dramatically after interacting with a young Alia Bhatt. According to Imtiaz, Alia’s emotional quotient and inherent warmth captivated him. Despite her youth, her conversations revealed a depth of understanding that he found indispensable for the character in “Highway.”
Recounting their first meeting, Imtiaz said, “I met Alia when she came to the screening with her mum. I hadn’t seen her debut movie ‘Student of the Year.’ When I saw her, she appeared like a young woman, dressed in a skirt, exuding a certain maturity beyond her years.”
Imtiaz took the conversation into deeper realms, discussing subjects like home and society to draw out the true essence of Alia’s character. He discovered a voice that he felt would remain consistent over the years, a quality essential for the role he was about to offer.
Initially, Imtiaz was resistant to the idea of casting someone so young for a role he envisioned for a mature woman. “I always wanted someone who had lived through more experiences similar to the ones portrayed in the film,” Imtiaz admitted. “But, the moment I spoke to Alia, her emotional depth made me reconsider. She was this intriguing package of vulnerability and strength that I needed for the film. That’s when I hoped she would take on the role.”
The journey from hope to confirmation, however, was fraught with hesitations. After handing Alia the script, which was written more like a novella rather than a typical screenplay, Imtiaz anxiously awaited her response.
. Days went by without any word from Alia, leading him to worry about her reluctance.
“Why don’t you tell her to do my film?” Imtiaz said to her father, renowned filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, during a visit to their home. He had handed over the script with the expectation that Alia would respond soon. Yet, silence ensued for a day, which Imtiaz interpreted as disinterest. His concern grew, prompting him to reach out directly, and to his relief, Alia admitted she loved the script but had reservations about her ability to perform in every scene.
“When I called her, she admitted, ‘I loved it,’ but expressed doubts saying, ‘Can we talk about it?’ When an actor says that, it usually means they are hesitant,” Imtiaz shared. This marked the start of a critical conversation, during which Alia voiced her concerns about the demanding nature of the role. She was worried about carrying an entire film on her shoulders, given her relatively nascent career at the time.
Imtiaz recalled how he reassured Alia, emphasizing collective effort over individual success, stating, “Don’t worry, we will sink together if we have to.” This assurance, combined with a push from her father, Mahesh Bhatt, helped Alia commit to the project.
Her casting turned out to be a fortuitous decision. Alia Bhatt’s performance in “Highway” was met with widespread critical acclaim, establishing her as one of the versatile new faces in Bollywood. The film, which explores the psychological and emotional journey of a young woman kidnapped and held for ransom, deviated significantly from her debut in “Student of the Year.” The complex role showcased her range as an actor and solidified her standing in the industry.
“Highway” became a landmark film not just for Alia, but for the Indian film industry, proving that unconventional choices could yield profound narratives. Through the lens of Stockholm syndrome, it highlighted the nuanced portrayal of characters experiencing emotional liberation amidst severe circumstances.
In retrospect, Imtiaz Ali’s recounting of these behind-the-scenes moments underscores the unpredictable nature of filmmaking and how serendipitous encounters can redefine preconceived notions. Alia Bhatt’s initial hesitation, transformed by mutual trust and reassurance, exemplifies the magic that unfolds when passion and potential converge in storytelling.
