EXCLUSIVE: Madhumita opens up on casting Abhishek Bachchan in Kaalidhar Laapata; says, “Abhishek sir brought a depth and vulnerability to Kaalidhar”

Filmmaker Madhumita opened up about the emotional core that defines her storytelling and her experience of directing Abhishek Bachchan in what is being called one of his most layered performances in Kaalidhar Laapata.

Known for her ability to bring out the quiet intensity of human connection, Madhumita reflected on what draws her repeatedly to stories that explore unlikely relationships. In an exclusive quote with Bollywood Hungama, she said, “I’ve always believed that emotions are what make us beautifully unique, yet fundamentally the same. That paradox fascinates me as a filmmaker. Growing up, I was the kind of person who could get teary-eyed at a stranger’s story or laugh out loud at the smallest, shared moment. I think that’s why I gravitate toward stories about unlikely relationships and the quiet, everyday beauty of human connection.”

She added, “One of the most profound pieces of advice I ever received was from the legendary K. Vishwanath Garu. He told me, ‘A filmmaker can make a film in any language, as long as they stay true to the emotions—because human emotions are universal.’ That wisdom has stayed with me throughout my career. It’s why, when I’m telling a story, I focus more on the emotional truth at its core, regardless of what genre my films may be.”

Turning to Kaalidhar Laapata, Madhumita spoke about her decision to cast Abhishek Bachchan in the titular role—a choice that initially surprised many. Madhumita stated, “When you think of Kaalidhar, I doubt anyone’s first thought would be Abhishek sir. He’s known for his versatility, of course, but the image that comes to mind is always stylish, polished, articulate, and sophisticated—someone who carries himself with intelligence and charm. Words like innocent, emotional, or deeply conflicted aren’t usually associated with him. But that’s exactly what made casting him as Kaalidhar so exciting for me.”

She continued, “There’s a real thrill in casting against type, and I was eager to see how Abhishek sir would inhabit this role. Every step of the way, he surprised me—constantly proving that he could become whatever the story required. Playing loud or flamboyant characters is easy; it’s the subtle, nuanced performances that are much harder to pull off. Both as an actor and a director, you always wonder if the audience will pick up on those quiet moments, the small shifts in emotion.”

Madhumita expressed confidence in the audience’s ability to appreciate these subtleties. She added, “But I truly believe we don’t give our audiences enough credit—they are incredibly perceptive. They catch every nuance, every flicker of feeling, and they appreciate it when it rings true. Abhishek sir brought a depth and vulnerability to Kaalidhar that I think will surprise a lot of people, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience that.”

Also Read : Abhishek Bachchan on 25 years of his debut film Refugee, “Never wanted a conventional launch, always wanted to be introduced in a different kind of film”

from Featured Movie News | Featured Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama
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