Youngsters will watch my films when accompanying their grandparents: Sooraj Barjatya

The Prem Ratan Dhan Payo filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya talks about why he makes only family-oriented films and how criticism doesn’t bother him .

Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya has delivered several hits such as Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (PRDP; 2015) and Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999). His films are always family-oriented, and he says that he has never felt the need to move away from the genre. Barjatya says, “Our mantra is to make family-oriented films, and we have been making them (films) since 1962. As for myself, I have tried to portray modern day romance in Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon (2003), which didn’t work. Then, I made Vivah (2006), which people called the most backward film, but look at the business it did. I feel as a filmmaker, I want to make movies about the kind of life I know about. I feel responsible [towards society]. I feel someone should keep making films that a family can watch together. Today, it’s a great challenge to make a film in the industry and connect it with the youth. So, when Raju Hirani makes a family-oriented movie, he should be saluted for it.”

Sooraj Barjatya feels it’s a great challenge to make a film that connects with the youth. (Pramod Thakur/HT Photo)

Not just Vivah, PRDP also received criticism for its storyline. However, Barjatya claims that criticism doesn’t affect him. “When I made Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), it received criticism. We all know our audiences. I cater to families. Maybe, the youngsters don’t watch my film, but they will watch it, when accompanying their grandparents. I know my strengths and weakness. You can’t satisfy everyone with your films.”

Sooraj Barjatya (HT Photo )

There are also rumours that his son Avnish Barjatya, will direct Salman Khan in his debut directorial. Barjatya says, “It isn’t true, as Avnish is still writing the script. He will take our banner forward as he has new and different ideas about film-making. ” Has Sr. Barjatya signed on Salman for his next venture? “It’s nice of Salman to always be willing [to work with us], but my script is in the development stage. Whenever we talk about a film with him, it has to be something special.”

Watch the title song of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo