For Kayoze Irani, son of acclaimed actor Boman Irani, stepping behind the camera for Sarzameen was more than just a career move—it was the realisation of a dream he has nurtured since school days. Speaking to Moneycontrol.com, the director opened up about his journey, casting choices, challenges on set, and the invaluable guidance from his legendary father.
Calm Before the Storm
Reflecting on the tense hours before Sarzameen’s release, Irani admits he was surprisingly composed.
“A day before the release, I was very calm because I knew that whether people liked it or not, I had put my best foot forward. Before shooting, of course, I was nervous—working with two veteran actors will do that—but they made everything so easy. Day one itself was good to go, and I was just very excited to be on set directing this film.”
Spotting Ibrahim Ali Khan’s Potential
Irani revealed that Ibrahim Ali Khan’s casting happened serendipitously on the sets of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, where Ibrahim was working as an assistant director.
“Karan sir and I were watching the monitor while Ibrahim stood in for Ranveer Singh during a shot setup. We both realised—this boy has a face for the camera and a screen presence. We went into six months of workshops with Atul Mongia, and that’s how we found him in the character. I’m very happy he did the role.”
Battling Snowstorms and Earthquakes
Shooting in Manali brought its share of difficulties—bad weather, snowstorms, even an earthquake.
“The main challenge was cutting out the noise and focusing on the product. The audience doesn’t know or care about what happens behind the scenes—they only see what’s on screen. You can’t explain delays; you have to make the best of the situation.”
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From Actor to Director—By Design, Not Accident
Although many remember him as the lovable character from Student of the Year, Irani says his path to directing was always intentional.
“I’ve wanted to be a director since school. While working as an AD on Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, I auditioned for a role as a joke and ended up in Student of the Year. But after that, I went straight back to my original dream—making short films and honing my craft.”
Mentoring Ibrahim
As a debut actor, Ibrahim was given one golden rule.
“Criticism will come. No matter what success this film has, it will only get tougher. Work on your next film like it’s your first—give it maximum hard work. Don’t think once you’re launched, you’re set for life. There will be more hurdles, different challenges.”
Landing Prithviraj Sukumaran
Interestingly, Prithviraj first read the script while hiding in a car during a sandstorm in Jordan.
“He called Karan sir the same evening saying he loved it, but wanted a day. That night he watched my short film Ajit Baskar, called the next day and said, ‘I like this boy. I want to make this.’ That’s how it happened.”
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