Kantara Cinematographer Arvind Kashyap Embraces New Creative Direction with Mass Entertainer
Following the monumental success of the film Kantara, cinematographer Arvind Kashyap has found himself at a career crossroads, flooded with both acclaim and a deluge of script offers. However, he reveals a common thread in these proposals that has left him both amused and reflective.
Moving Beyond the Forest: A Desire for Diversity
"And almost everyone tells me the same thing: 'This film is also set in a forest, and we want you on board,'" Kashyap shares with a laugh, highlighting the typecasting he faces post-Kantara. He emphasizes his ambition to break free from this niche, stating, "Just because Kantara was set against a sylvan backdrop doesn't mean I want to keep working only in that space. I want to experiment with other settings too."
A Complete Departure: The NBK 111 Project
After dedicating five years to the Kantara franchise, Arvind Kashyap has now embarked on a project that marks a stark contrast to his previous work. He is serving as the Director of Photography for veteran actor Balayya's upcoming film, tentatively titled NBK 111, which is Balayya's 111th film.
Currently filming in Hyderabad, Kashyap describes the project as "a mass entertainer that promises to appeal to the whole family." He elaborates, "It's colourful, flamboyant, and the complete opposite of the world of Kantara." This shift underscores his commitment to exploring varied cinematic landscapes beyond the earthy, forested realms of his breakout hit.
Working with Balayya: An Infectious Energy
Arvind Kashyap confesses that collaborating with Balayya has been an exhilarating experience. He expresses deep admiration for the actor's enduring passion and professionalism, noting, "I can't help but admire his enthusiasm and discipline even after so many films and years in the industry."
What stands out to Kashyap is Balayya's unwavering presence on set. "He never takes a break and retreat to his caravan between shots. He stays right there on the set, soaking in every moment," he observes. This dedication has a ripple effect, as Kashyap adds, "His energy is so infectious that it makes you more disciplined about your work too."
Despite being in awe of the veteran actor, Kashyap humorously admits, "I haven't yet gathered the courage to ask him for a selfie — he's such a veteran. But I will do so one of these days and treasure the experience of working on this film." This sentiment reflects the profound respect and learning opportunity he associates with this new venture.
This career pivot highlights Arvind Kashyap's evolution as a cinematographer, moving from the critically acclaimed, nature-centric Kantara to a vibrant, family-oriented mass entertainer, showcasing his versatility and eagerness to challenge creative boundaries in Indian cinema.
