Debutant director SHIV HARE speaks with SHALINI SAKSENA about how he ended up in the industry and collaborationwith AR Rahman

What is Atkan Chatkan about?

I wanted to make a musical film. Those who have not seen the movie, it is about hope, dreams, inspirations, music and kids.

Why this title?

I wanted a title that showcased the title and had a rhythm. There is this instrument that was popular back in the 60s and 70s. Almost everyone has seen this – a tin box with a couple of sticks. We used this instrument in this movie and had to look for the same in Bhindi bazaar. Also, almost everybody in North India has heard the word atkan chatkan. They don’t know where and in what context but they have heard it.

You also wrote the story, where did you get inspiration from?

My love of music is why I am in this industry. I started off with theatre back in 1996-2000. I used to travel a lot. We have seen how musically inclined kids are especially from Rajasthan. They are able to play any instrument including khartal, an instrument we find difficult to even hold. The idea of the film came from there. Then there were childhood memories that found its way in the film.

How did you zero on your protagonists?

I have been a casting director for the last 10 years. I have worked with Gajraj Rao as associate director. I have worked on thousands of ads. I auditioned very few kids for my project. I had seen one of the protagonists, Sachin, in DID and saw how energetic he is. He was a little older than what was looking for but his vibrancy was infectious. Unfortunately, we couldn’t keep him in with the project for long.

How did you end up in the industry?

I have been here since 2001. I have worked in many ad films. But we all know that in order to make a film is a different ballgame. I met a lot of people who promised a lot of things but it never worked out till now.

How did you end up collaborating with AR Rahman?

He is the presenter of the movie. I wanted to make a film about kids. This film is in flashback and when you showcase a legend, it is his story that one sees all through. And there is no bigger legend in music than AR Rahman. When we showed the film, he was a bit apprehensive in acting as he had just been part of a Tamil movie and wanted to stay away from acting but he agreed to present it.

This is your directorial debut. How does it feel to finally see the end product?

I have spent so much time on this project that now I feel nothing. I think it is destiny that has put me where I am today. I know this film hit the screen back in 2012 but it was destined to be released in 2020. And I am happy.

From music to theatre to a director, how has the journey been?

Nobody in my family encouraged me to pursue music. My father was dead against it and didn’t think it was a career option. When I was 12-13, I shifted to my maternal grandparents’ home and learnt music for three-four years. I shifted to theatre and would assist directors whenever I could and here I am.

As a first-time director did you face challenges?

To be honest, things were easy. I have been here for 20 years. I have learnt so much for world cinema and my experience as an assistant director.

What next?

Over the years, I have written so many stories. I am just getting started now. Films have an archival value. I am working on a few projects. Let’s see how things work out. Music, romance, kids and fantasy are genres that excite me.