As Aditya Sarpotdar prepares for the premiere of Disney+ Hotstar's The Secrets of the Shiledars, the director explores his passion for integrating Maharashtrian culture into mainstream Bollywood, while also playing a pivotal role in the expansion of Maddock Films’ horror-comedy cinematic universe. In an exclusive interview with OTTplay, Sarpotdar provided insights into his narrative style and the ambitious vision for this cinematic universe.

On showcasing Maharashtrian culture in mainstream Bollywood

Bollywood, Sarpotdar has consistently showcased Maharashtrian folklore on a national stage through works like Munjya and The Secrets of the Shiledars. When questioned about his attraction to these themes and how he maintains a fresh perspective with each project, he remarked:

"Ultimately, these are our Indian stories; even if they are rooted in Maharashtra, they represent very local folklore. Munjya, for instance, is a distinctly local tale. However, I was genuinely shocked and pleasantly surprised to see how well Munjya resonated with audiences in Delhi and Chennai alike. While we have our interpretation, the core story remains unchanged. This realization is a significant eye-opener, highlighting the essence of India and its culture; it is fundamentally the same, with variations emerging from different regions. For example, what we refer to as 'Munjya' is known as 'Brahmadaitya' in Bengal, has a different name in Chennai, and is called something else in Delhi.

Ultimately, it is the fundamental essence of the story that connects and resonates with audiences—the emotional core of the narrative. With Munjya, the goal was to create a relatable experience, allowing viewers to empathize with the boy and the girl, grasp the concept of consent, and recognize the broader narrative at play."

In this narrative, although it may appear to be a treasure hunt, it fundamentally represents Rajeev Khandelwal's character's quest for self-discovery. The series, when viewed superficially, seems to revolve around the pursuit of treasure; however, the trailer and teaser conclude with the phrase 'ke mujhe pata hai ke mujhe kya karna hai' [I now know what I have to do], which signifies the character's understanding of his objectives. This is a personal journey—one that encompasses his mission, aspirations, and life goals. Ultimately, these elements resonate with the audience, as the allure of treasure holds little significance for them; it is unlikely to find a place in their homes. The connection lies in the character's experiences, struggles, and triumphs, which evoke relatable emotions.

Sarpotdar also reflected on the shift in audience preferences post-pandemic

"I must emphasize that our society has undergone significant changes since the pandemic. The events of 2020 have fundamentally altered our subconscious perceptions. We are now more inclined to embrace risks, having navigated a year fraught with uncertainty. This collective experience has fostered a desire to witness characters who take bold risks, and this is something we now value. As a community, we are observing a transformation in cinema. Filmmakers should also embrace this shift by exploring narratives that have previously remained untold. It is essential to step beyond our comfort zones, as audiences have similarly expanded their own boundaries in their everyday lives.

This trend will become increasingly evident. Filmmakers who dare to take risks and present unique subjects to the audience—concepts they have not encountered before—will invariably earn their appreciation. The authenticity of such endeavors will always be recognized and valued."

On expanding Maddock Films’ horror-comedy universe

Maddock Films has officially unveiled its horror-comedy cinematic universe with the upcoming film Thama, featuring Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Director Sarpotdar, who has helmed two films within this franchise, discussed the significant responsibility associated with creating such an expansive world:

"It is indeed a considerable responsibility, yet it is also immensely enjoyable, as we have a long-term plan spanning the next five years and eight films. The success of this endeavor will rely not only on the reception of each film but also on the overwhelming love and anticipation we have received from the audience. Fans have already begun creating videos speculating on the next film's plot and potential storylines.

"It is thrilling to observe the audience's interpretations, and I intend to use their insights as a foundation for developing new ideas. Currently, Amar [Kaushik] is collaborating extensively with Niren Bhatt, the chief writer of this universe, and we are relishing the creative process. Our goal is to produce films that are enjoyable to create, ensuring that the journey remains pleasurable for future projects. This is our fundamental objective.

"There is not an excessive amount of pressure. We avoid overanalyzing, although some individuals do, and engaging with their theories is quite entertaining. The truth is, we are uncertain about what the future holds for us next year. At this moment, we are focused on enjoying the work we are producing and eagerly anticipating our next steps. That is our sole agenda—nothing more."

With The Secrets of the Shiledars scheduled for release on January 31, 2025, and the Maddock horror-comedy universe rapidly expanding, Sarpotdar's vision for engaging and culturally resonant storytelling continues to develop. Meanwhile, Thama is slated for a Diwali 2025 release.

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