Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has recently addressed the long-standing criticism and narrative surrounding his 2015 film 'Bombay Velvet', particularly focusing on the backlash he received for casting Karan Johar in a pivotal role. In a candid interview, Kashyap delved into the perception of a rivalry between him and Johar, and how their collaboration was viewed by many in the industry and his fanbase as a 'sell-out'.
The 'Rivalry' Narrative and 'Sell-Out' Allegations
Speaking to SCREEN, Anurag Kashyap explained that the public and media often saw him and Karan Johar as artistic rivals, representing two completely different ends of the cinematic spectrum. "People saw me and Karan as rivals, as two different ends of a spectrum," Kashyap stated. This perceived dichotomy made his decision to bring Johar on board for 'Bombay Velvet' a shocking move for many.
He revealed that a significant section of his followers and critics interpreted this collaboration as a compromise of his indie filmmaking ethos. "A lot of those who used to follow my work felt that I had sold out, that I was making a film with a star and with Karan Johar involved," the 'Gangs of Wasseypur' director shared. The eventual commercial and critical failure of the period drama further cemented this narrative, turning it into a cautionary tale. Kashyap lamented that this story "still persists" even today.
Defending the Casting Choice and Addressing the 'Downfall' Theory
Anurag Kashyap firmly defended his casting decision, asserting that Karan Johar was a natural and fantastic choice for the role of the antagonist, Kaizad Khambatta. He praised Johar's performance, calling his work in the film "fantastic." However, he conceded, "But unfortunately, the film didn’t work."
The director expressed frustration with the simplistic conclusion many have drawn linking the film's failure to his association with Johar. "Even now, people say that my downfall happened because I ‘shook hands’ with Karan. And I’m like, what do you mean by shaking hands? We did a film together," Kashyap said, challenging the reductive analysis of his career trajectory.
Strained Equation with Ranbir Kapoor After the Flop
The fallout from 'Bombay Velvet' also affected Kashyap's relationship with the film's lead actor, Ranbir Kapoor. Kashyap disclosed that Kapoor was often upset with him for continually discussing the failed project in interviews. "I think Ranbir was very upset... he keeps saying, 'Why do you keep talking about 'Bombay Velvet'? Just ignore it. The film didn't work; it didn’t work, but you don’t have to talk about it all the time,'" Kashyap recounted.
He explained that he addresses it only because he is constantly asked about it. The director also shared the emotional weight he carried, feeling responsible towards the trust Kapoor and other cast members placed in him. "At the beginning, I just didn’t know how to face them because they had given me a lot of trust and love," he admitted. He noted that now, when they meet, they simply share a hug, moving past the awkwardness.
Meanwhile, Anurag Kashyap is currently working on his new project titled 'Bandar', which features Bobby Deol in the lead role.
