Aamir Khan's Dadasaheb Phalke biopic NOT delayed, confirms grandson: 'Everything is going as scheduled'

Rumours suggested a delay and script rework for Rajkumar Hirani's much-anticipated biopic on Dadasaheb Phalke, starring Aamir Khan. Phalke's grandson, Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, has refuted these claims.

Aamir Khan projects draw significant curiousity

The biopic of the man known as the "Father of Indian Cinema" has sparked a great deal of curiosity, as is typical of projects starring Aamir. The superstar's demands for script modifications reportedly caused a brief pause in pre-production.

In an interview with Mid-Day, Pusalkar refuted the rumours, asserting that the reports of the film's delay are untrue. Writers Hindukush and Avishkar Bharadwaj both refuted the claim when he asked them about it. He added, "Everything is going as scheduled. Nothing is being rewritten. The final draft is being prepared."

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Biopic to focus on Raja Harishchandra production

Reportedly taking place during India's fight for independence, the biopic would centre on the production of Phalke's first feature film, the legendary Raja Harishchandra (1931), which cemented his position in cinematic history.

Production is scheduled to begin early next year, according to Pusalkar: "The shooting will begin in January next year." As he described the intended site at Film City in Goregaon, he confirmed that it was officially titled Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari and that it seemed appropriate for the crew to film there.

Aamir Khan's deep emotional investment in the script

When it comes to his roles as actor and producer, Aamir is notoriously dedicated to his work. According to reports, the filmmaker had a significant hand in writing the script, as this is his first go at a biographical film. According to Pusalkar, Aamir felt a deep connection to the writing, and he also shed light on Phalke's life story.

Pusalkar added, "Aamir has been involved in the writing and is giving his inputs. While reading the script, he holds a kerchief in one hand. He cried over some special moments in my grandfather’s life. He gets emotional about what my grandfather went through. I’m waiting for Hindukush to introduce me to Aamir and Rajkumarji once the script is finalised."

Srikrishna Pusalkar voices complaint about Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Although Pusalkar is pleased that the film will bring Phalke's narrative to a broader audience, he has a long-standing complaint about the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which is the finest cinematic accolade given by the Indian government.

He was disappointed that the government hadn't done more to involve the Phalke family in planning the National Film Awards, an event of immense prestige. The government has never invited them to the event except once in the 55 years since it began.

He stated, "Even the one time we were invited, we sat in the audience like guests. The family should have a say in this award. Many NGOs too are misusing my grandfather’s name."

FAQs

Q: Is Aamir Khan's Dadasaheb Phalke biopic delayed?

A: No, Dadasaheb Phalke's grandson, Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, confirmed that rumors of the film being delayed or the script being reworked are "false news". Everything is reportedly "going as scheduled."

Q: When will the shooting for the Dadasaheb Phalke biopic begin?

A: The shooting for the biopic, which stars Aamir Khan and is directed by Rajkumar Hirani, is scheduled to begin in January next year at Film City in Goregaon.

Q: Why did Aamir Khan want the script for the Phalke biopic reworked?

A: Rumours suggested Aamir Khan wanted the script reworked, which is what led to the delay chatter. However, Phalke's grandson denied these claims, stating that "Nothing is being rewritten. The final draft is being prepared."