Speaking with Subhash K Jha, Director Krish Jagarlamudi talks about his drama, which he calls a ‘commercial film with a cause’, 2015’s Gabbar Is Back, which starred Akshay Kumar.
Krish, ten years of your only Hindi film, not counting the unfortunate Manikarnika?
Wow! Ten years already. That feels wild, Sir!
As a vigilante, Akshay fought corruption in the medical profession ?
Gabbar Is Back wasn’t just a vigilante drama. It was a statement, a warcry against corruption, and I think that spirit resonated strongly with the audience back then.
What was it like working with Akshay Kumar?
And working with Akshay Sir was a blast. He is super sharp, super fun, and somehow always ten steps ahead of us on set.
Were you happy with the response?
The way audiences connected with the film, especially the dialogues and the core idea was amazing. It was a commercial film with a cause, and I’m proud it made a noise on both fronts.
Why no Hindi film, did the Manikarnika experience put you off?
It’s not that I stepped away from Hindi cinema, sir. After Gabbar and Manikarnika, I’ve been deeply involved in Telugu cinema… with some of my most personal and intense stories were taking shape here. So, my focus naturally stayed rooted here.
Are you open to Hindi offers?
I haven’t closed the door on Hindi at all. It just has to be the right film… something that excites me as a storyteller. For now, I have a couple of Telugu releases lined up that I’m fully immersed in. About tomorrow, who knows? In any case, Sir, haven’t linguistic walls fallen?
