'Nepotism days are over, it's time to shine with your talent': 'Dukaan' directors Siddharth & Garima

The esteemed lyricist duo, Siddharth and Garima, renowned for their soul-stirring verses in Ram Leela, Toilet Ek Prem Katha and Kabir Singh, are poised to step into direction with their maiden venture, Dukaan.

The movie narrates the story of Jasmine (played by Monika Panwar), a brave young woman venturing on a transformative path as a surrogate mother in Gujarat.

With a plethora of chart-topping songs such as 'Pinga' from Deewani Mastani, 'Mohe Rang Do Laal' from Bajirao Mastani, 'Nainowale Ne' from Padmaavat and 'Satranga' from Animal to their credit, Siddharth and Garima have captured the hearts of audiences with their evocative lyrics and poignant storytelling.

With Dukaan, the duo channel their creative prowess into filmmaking, exploring the complexities and ethical dilemmas surrounding IVF and surrogacy in contemporary society.

Siddharth and Garima, the duo who are together for over a one and half decades, shared their experience with DH on making this sensitive and socially significant film.

On being asked what motivated them to turn director, Garima said, "The evolution from being a writer to a director is a natural progression, considering that on paper, approximately 80% of the film is shaped by the writer's vision. Our transition as director felt seamless due to our previous experience on the films we've worked on, including Raabta, Ram-Leela, and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha. This familiarity with the filmmaking process made the shift feel like a natural next step for us."

On being asked why Dukaan, Siddharth said, "The idea originated after reading a news article and the journey of Dukaan started. Addressing such challenging topics can be daunting, especially as a writer, where you often feel like a lone warrior. Transitioning to a director's role adds another layer of complexity, as it is one of the few remaining dictatorial positions globally, requiring you to align everyone with your vision."

"From showing the bare belly to navigating the hurdles of surrogacy, we approached the making of the film with extreme care. Delighted with the final result, we anticipate a positive reception for the movie upon its release in theaters, added the directors.

"Independent producers and talented writers continue to thrive in Bollywood. Today, anyone with talent can step forward, showcase their skills, and make a mark in the industry. The era of nepotism in Bollywood is fading, paving the way for genuine talent to shine. This is the reason we're here with Dukaan," concluded the makers.

Along with Monika Panwar, the movie stars Sikandar Kher, Soham Majumdar, Monali Thakur and Vrajesh Hirjee. The music is composed by Animal fame Shreyas Puranik.

Dukaan is produced by A Jhunjhunwala and SK Ahluwalia under the banner Waveband Productions along with Siddharth-Garima's Kalamkaar Picture Productions and is set to hit the screens on April 5.