Veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt has officially confirmed he will never direct again. He cited that modern cinema heavily relies on pre-decided formulas and content designs, which he believes diminishes the true role and creative spontaneity of the artiste.
Bhatt, who directed acclaimed classics like Arth and Saaransh, stepped away from direction in 1999. After a brief return with Sadak 2 (2020), he has firmly stated that there will be no more directorial comebacks. He observed that modern filmmaking is increasingly shaped by rigid, pre-decided formulas and market-driven metrics, limiting genuine creative freedom. Rather than conforming to this environment, he finds fulfillment in producing films, presenting theatre plays, and mentoring young talent.
Looking at the broader landscape of Indian cinema, Bhatt has also expressed concern over how modern stories are sometimes used to push aggressive narratives that divide audiences rather than bringing people together. He believes cinema should ideally explore the complex, grey areas of human emotion and struggles rather than forcing pre-determined, one-sided ideologies.
News Edit KV Raman
