A decade after the release of ‘Udta Punjab’, director Abhishek Chaubey continues to look back at the film as an important chapter in his filmmaking journey. Released in 2016, the drama tackled Punjab’s drug crisis through multiple interconnected stories and featured performances from Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Diljit Dosanjh and Kareena Kapoor Khan.Over the years, the film has remained part of conversations around censorship, socially relevant storytelling and memorable performances. Among the cast members, Alia Bhatt’s portrayal of a migrant labourer caught in the cycle of addiction is often regarded as one of the standout performances of her career.
Alia Bhatt was ready for the challenge
Reflecting on Alia’s preparation for the role of Mary Jane, Abhishek said the actor was fully committed to understanding the emotional and physical trauma experienced by her character.Speaking with Variety India, he shared, “Alia was very much up to the challenge of playing such a difficult part. It couldn’t have been easy, but she was a sport. We talked a lot about what her character, Mary Jane, goes through. I told her exactly what the experience does to the character’s body and psyche. It must’ve been exhausting for her, but she was very stoic.”The filmmaker explained that extensive discussions helped shape the character’s journey and allowed Alia to immerse herself in the demanding role.
The ‘Udta Punjab’ controversy
Even though ‘Udta Punjab’ became one of the most debated films of its time, Chaubey said creating controversy was never the objective behind the project.“I guess it is, although it was never my intent to make a controversial film. I just wanted to make a thrilling and entertaining film and for this issue to reach the public at large.”The film sparked nationwide discussions due to its portrayal of substance abuse and its depiction of Punjab’s social realities. However, according to Chaubey, the primary goal was to tell an engaging story while bringing attention to a serious issue.How did Shahid Kapoor become Tommy Singh?One of the most talked-about aspects of the film was Shahid Kapoor’s transformation into the eccentric rockstar Tommy Singh. Chaubey revealed that the character evolved gradually and drew inspiration from multiple sources rather than a single real-life individual.“Tommy was based on many people. It eventually evolved into a fairly original character. I have to credit Shahid in creating that character, too. He also brought his own imagination and ideas to build the persona.”The director also recalled being pleasantly surprised by Shahid’s immediate enthusiasm for the role.“He really enjoyed the script and immediately said yes. I was surprised. He told me that he saw it as a great opportunity. He said, ‘How many times will I get to play a character as mad as this one?’”
Abhishek Chaubey responds to criticism regarding Punjab’s image
Following its release, ‘Udta Punjab’ drew criticism from some quarters for allegedly portraying the state in a negative light. Chaubey, however, maintained that the film emerged from a place of concern rather than judgement.“If we don’t talk about our problems honestly and openly, how do we expect to solve them? This attitude has to change. Our intention was never to tarnish any image. We came from a place of love and compassion.”The filmmaker believes cinema can play a role in encouraging conversations around difficult social issues.
Abhishek Chaubey on revisiting the world of ‘Udta Punjab’ with a sequel
Although the film continues to attract new viewers even ten years after its release, Chaubey said a sequel has never been part of his plans. “A sequel was never on my mind. I don’t even watch my films.”The director is currently focused on his next project, an action-drama series that is expected to go on floors in the coming months. As ‘Udta Punjab’ completes a decade, the film continues to be remembered for its performances, its social commentary and the conversations it sparked across the country.
