The director: Sanjay Khanduri, 29

I am from Delhi and did my graduation in Electronics. I also gave my entrance exam for for MBA. In the meantime I went to the TV 18 office, and liked the ambience so much that I joined as a correspondent. I also joined MTV's campus program. I was very fascinated by special effects, so I came to Mumbai and joined Crest Communications. After that, I joined Subhash Ghai on Taal.

The struggling years: The struggle period was really bad. From a salary of Rs 15,000, it went down to Rs 1,500. I was soon reduced to staying in chawls, makeup rooms and studios. I worked at many places, and had to prove my credentials. The break was the job at MTV. Then I got call from Mukta Arts and assisted Ghai on Taal. From there I joined Kundan Shah, and assisted him on Dil Hai Tumhara. He told me if I wanted to direct a film, I should first know how to write. I gave up my job and for six months I was without salary, writing a script and pitching it to every producer. Finally, I actually got a producer who believed in my story and was willing to invest Rs 2 to 2.5 crore in it.

Why it worked? I think the movie did well because of the story and the screenplay. The script was unique.

If he could change something... I don't think I would want to change anything in my movie. No qualms at all.

Was success expected? Yes, I knew it would work. People were skeptical in the begiining but the box office collection was really good and my producers are very happy with me.

What next? I have been constantly working for the past 8 years and I need a break. I will be going to Uttaranchal, and then to UK for a week. After that I would begin work on my next project. I have 2-3 scripts in hand.

Also Read: Sanjay Khanduri on Ek Chalis...

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