Producer-cum-writer Harry Sachdeva’s film 31st October is all set for a world-wide release and he is confident that the audience will re-live the happenings of the 1984 riots with a heavy heart. It is not meant to instigate any problems, he tells Deebashree Mohanty
There have been a few documentaries on the 1984 riots but not many comprehensive feature films. Why do you think that is the caseIJ
The subject has been a burning topic as the Sikh community, many eminent lawyers and activists have been fighting to seek justice for the victims of 1984. No one dared to attempt this subject for a film, considering it might create controversies, rather I should say troubles for the film makers. However, I believe that cinema is the most relevant platform to reach out to the masses and pass on a message that such genocides do no good to any individual, community or country.
Tell us more about your film 31st OctoberIJ
It’s a film close to my heart and to many other hearts across the globe. The film is set on the backdrop of one of the darkest days in Indian history, the day of the assassination of Indira Gandhi. The day when the nation not only lost its Prime Minister but also many innocent lives. The film is based on a true life story and is a depiction of what Delhi witnessed on that horrific night. It’s a political thriller with a message of strong brotherhood.
You shot predominantly in Delhi and ludhiana. How was that experienceIJ
We chose to shoot in the interiors of Punjab, where we created streets of Delhi in 1984 through fabricated sets. It was a wonderful experience shooting in the villages. The people were highly supportive and it was very encouraging to hear them applaud after each shot. But many people were touched as it reminded them of what happened 30 years back.
Is this family still aroundIJ How did they help you in your research workIJ
The characters played by Soha Ali Khan and Vir Das are based on a real life couple who live in ludhiana. I have penned down their personal journey and converted it into a cinematic experience for the audience. We did an in-depth research for the film, besides this family, we met many others residing in the widow colony of Tilak nagar. We heard their stories and have kept the script as original as possible so that we can take the audience back to that day.
What attracted you towards this projectIJ
I belong to a Sikh family and I grew up hearing stories of 1984 from my parents and relatives. Moreover, having a strong inclination towards films, I also wanted to cinematise this subject and I was very sure that the day I have the capability to make a film, it has to be on this subject. My sole agenda of making this film is to tell the world that such genocides should not be repeated.
How was it working with eminent director Shivaji lotan PatilIJ
Having a National Award winning director for my debut film was a proud feeling. Being the writer of the film, I was very clear in my head as to what I wanted to see but Shivaji did a wonderful job by converting my thoughts into actions. He has done complete justice to the film and this subject.
How did your casting director zero in on Soha Ali Khan and Vir Das to play the protagonistsIJ Were you confident that Vir Das’s reputation of a stand up comedian will not mar the filmIJ
The decision of finalising the actors was taken by conducting screen tests and research. Soha perfectly fit into the role. Audience has already accepted her in a similar role in Rang De Basanti. People have largely seen Vir as a stand-up comedian however, this film will show the audience his versatile side. He has done a brilliant job and has completely fit into the role of a Sikh guy. He grew a beard to play a Sikh and both Soha and Vir have put in their best to learn Punjabi dialects. When we narrated the script to them, the couple did not have to think twice.
What were your biggest challenges while shooting for this film and how did you deal with itIJ
Creating the era of 1984 was a bit of challenge as we shot in the hot summers of May and June in Punjab. We were also a little skeptical of the support we would get keeping in mind the subject I was attempting. But every part of it has made me learn and grow better, so all together it was a great experience.
Being a political thriller, are you apprehensive about the film’s release in India or is everything under controlIJ
The subject is a bold one and I might receive some criticism for the reasons known to all. But many people across the globe have promised to stand by me once the movie releases. My intention through the movie is not to instigate anyone but the message is very clear.
I would just say it is a cinematic depiction of what happened that day, a true account of a family’s journey of survival on the streets of Delhi where every nook and corner death was staring them in their face. I am confident that people will carry this film in their hearts. It gives me a lot of pride to announce that the film has been selected to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival.
Are you writing any more scripts at the momentIJ What is the kind of subject that appeals to youIJ
Yes, I will soon be starting my new project but right now we are completely concentrating on 31st October.We want to take the film to relevant international and national film festivals and are aiming for a world wide release in few months to come.
Two of my other projects are in pre-production stage. I am focused to make sensible yet entertaining cinema.
As a write, is there a particular story in the recent past that has really impressed upon youIJ
Yes, that story is again a real life journey but I cannot disclose much about it. You would soon see the same in the form of a film.