Vikramaditya Motwane’s Crucial Role in Shaping Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’

In a revelation that sheds new light on one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films, acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has acknowledged the pivotal role played by director Vikramaditya Motwane in shaping his magnum opus ‘Gangs of Wasseypur.’

The Hollywood Reporter India recently shared a post featuring this significant revelation, with the caption: “(Gangs of) Wasseypur would not have been Wasseypur if it wasn’t for him.” The post highlights how Motwane fundamentally changed the course of Kashyap’s film, which has since become a landmark in contemporary Indian cinema.

For those unfamiliar with the film, ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ is Anurag Kashyap’s two-part crime saga released in 2012. The film chronicles the coal mafia of Dhanbad and the power struggles between three crime families spanning across decades. Known for its raw storytelling, authentic characters, and unflinching portrayal of violence, the film gained both critical acclaim and cult status.

The film featured an ensemble cast including Manoj Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadha, Huma Qureshi, and Tigmanshu Dhulia, among others. It premiered at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival Directors’ Fortnight section and is often credited with changing the landscape of mainstream Indian cinema.

Anurag Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane share a long professional history. They co-founded Phantom Films in 2011 along with Vikas Bahl and Madhu Mantena, which produced several acclaimed films before its dissolution in 2018. Motwane, known for directing critically acclaimed films like ‘Udaan,’ ‘Lootera,’ and ‘AK vs AK,’ has often collaborated with Kashyap in various capacities.

Their creative partnership has yielded significant works in Indian cinema, with both filmmakers known for their distinct voices and willingness to push boundaries. This revelation about Motwane’s influence on ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ highlights the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shape iconic works.

It adds another interesting chapter to the story of a filmmaker who has consistently challenged conventions and redefined Indian cinema.

Trivia

Anurag Kashyap's career is characterized by a willingness to experiment with genres, moving fluidly between thrillers, dramas, and black comedies.

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Preeti JhaSenior creative producer

 

With nearly two decades of experience in the media and entertainment industry, Preeti Jha is a creative producer and director known for her expertise in content creation, production management, and storytelling. Currently serving as a senior creative producer at IncNut Digital, Preeti plays a pivotal role in developing high-impact digital content, overseeing creative strategy, and managing production workflows.

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