Mumbai, September 15, 2025 — Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, currently promoting his upcoming film Nishaanchi, shared candid insights on Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, and actor Alia Bhatt, while also commenting on the evolving dynamics of the Hindi film industry.
In a recent interview with Filmygyan, Kashyap addressed speculation about directing a biopic on Virat Kohli. He clarified that while he deeply respects Kohli as a person, he is not inclined to helm such a project. “I don’t know if I would want to because he’s already a hero to many people, to many children. If I have to do a biopic, I would choose a difficult subject, a person’s life,” Kashyap said. He described Kohli as “a very beautiful man… authentic, emotional, and incredible”.
Kashyap also spoke warmly about Shah Rukh Khan’s consistent appreciation for his work. He revealed that Khan personally reached out to praise projects like Sacred Games and AK vs AK. “When he likes something, I get a call,” Kashyap noted, highlighting the actor’s generosity and support for unconventional cinema.
Turning to Alia Bhatt, Kashyap lauded her for challenging long-standing norms in the industry, particularly around female actors’ careers post-marriage and motherhood. “She lifted the long-standing curse of this industry and said, ‘To hell with it,’” he remarked. Kashyap credited Bhatt’s fearless choices with inspiring other actors to pursue their craft without compromise. “She has broken so many walls. And she is an amazing actress. Salute to her for that,” he added.
Kashyap’s upcoming film Nishaanchi is a gritty drama set in early 2000s Uttar Pradesh. It marks the debut of Aaishvary Thackeray, who plays dual roles as brothers Babloo and Dabloo, whose ideological conflicts drive the narrative. The film is slated for theatrical release on September 19.
The filmmaker’s reflections underscore his commitment to complex storytelling and his admiration for artists who defy convention, reinforcing his reputation as one of India’s most provocative cinematic voices.
