Namrata Rao’s docuseries on Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar’s iconic screenwriting collaboration is streaming on Prime Video
For someone like Namrata Rao, who has edited acclaimed films such as Kahaani and Band Baaja Baaraat and worked on popular web series like Mismatched and Made in Heaven, the Prime Video docuseries Angry Young Men provides an ideal debut as a director.
Steering clear of the buzz surrounding the Salim-Javed fallout, Rao has chosen instead to spotlight the essence of what made the writing duo so pivotal in 1970s Hindi cinema. In a conversation with The Telegraph Online, Rao delves into the creation of Angry Young Men and her personal journey.
The Telegraph Online: How did Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar respond to Angry Young Men?
Namrata Rao: Their reactions were overwhelmingly positive. I was initially nervous about their feedback, but they both enjoyed it immensely. Salim sir mentioned that he was keen to see more of my work, and Javed sir encouraged me to swiftly create my next project. His support and interest were incredibly meaningful to me.
The Telegraph Online: Can you share how the concept for Angry Young Men came about? What drew you to Salim-Javed?
Namrata Rao: The idea for this project sort of came to me rather than the other way around. In 2018, while working on Lust Stories with Zoya Akhtar, we casually discussed various topics, including the films we enjoyed. It was during one of these conversations that Zoya mentioned her idea for a documentary on the Salim-Javed era, tentatively titled Angry Young Men.
The concept intrigued me—Salim-Javed’s unique contributions and their bold marketing strategies, like painting their names on posters, were captivating. I was familiar with their work from my youth and film studies, but the opportunity to explore their impact deeply fascinated me.
In December 2020, Zoya approached me about directing the documentary, and it felt like a natural fit. Given my background and passion for documentaries, I was thrilled at the prospect. Directing Angry Young Men became a dream debut for me.
The Telegraph Online: Although Angry Young Men is a documentary, it seems to have the flair of a Bollywood blockbuster. How did that come about?
Namrata Rao: (Laughs) That’s probably my inherent film sensibility coming through. My background is deeply rooted in filmmaking. Before I ventured into fiction with Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!, I had worked on several documentaries. My initial exposure was through a documentary I made during my time at the Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI), which received some recognition. This caught the attention of Dibakar Banerjee, who wanted that raw, authentic energy for his film.
Over the years, my experience has spanned across various documentaries, including Katiyabaaz and House of Secrets: The Burari Deaths. Documentaries offer a refreshing break from fiction, energizing me and providing new perspectives that I bring back into my fiction work. The intention behind Angry Young Men was to reach a wide audience, and that might explain the cinematic treatment of the documentary.
The Telegraph Online: After working closely with Salim-Javed, what have you learned that could enhance your craft?
Namrata Rao: Working with Salim and Javed has been profoundly inspiring. One key takeaway is the importance of staying curious about life. Salim sir often says that to be interesting, one must be genuinely interested. Their perpetual curiosity and enthusiasm for life keep them youthful and vibrant. This sense of wonder, even in old age, is something that I find deeply motivational. It encourages me to pursue my dreams with confidence, knowing that in creative endeavors, there’s no definitive failure—only learning and growth. Their example has reaffirmed my belief in the power of self-belief and persistent curiosity in the creative process.
The Telegraph Online: One of the most compelling aspects of Angry Young Men is how Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, despite their differences, mirror each other’s personal and professional lives. Their shared celebration of the mother figure in their films seems to stem from their own childhood experiences, marked by the absence of their fathers and a longing for their mothers.
Namrata Rao: Exactly. It’s fascinating to see how their personal histories intertwine yet diverge. Both Salim and Javed have this deep-seated sense of loss related to their mothers, which profoundly influences their writing. The concept of the ‘angry young man’ seems to be rooted in these early experiences and their yearning for something they never fully had. It’s remarkable how such personal wounds can resonate on a cultural scale.
The Telegraph Online: Both Salim and Javed became quite emotional when reflecting on their mothers during the series
Namrata Rao: Those moments were profoundly moving. It’s incredible how they’ve channeled their past struggles into their storytelling, turning personal pain into powerful narratives. Seeing them get emotional was a poignant reminder of their human side behind the public personas they’ve built.
The Telegraph Online: Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Farhan Akhtar, and Zoya Akhtar all had positive things to say in Angry Young Men. Salman spoke openly about the depth of the Salim-Javed relationship beyond their professional interactions.
Namrata Rao: Yes, their contributions were invaluable. The openness with which Salman and others spoke helped to build a richer, more nuanced portrayal of Salim and Javed. Their candidness was crucial in portraying the genuine bond and mutual respect that exists between them.
The Telegraph Online: You chose to focus on celebrating the iconic partnership of Salim-Javed rather than delving into their fallout. Was this a deliberate choice?
Namrata Rao: I’m glad you noticed the graceful approach. There were many reasons I chose not to dive into the specifics of their split. After 40 years, the events of their fallout feel somewhat distant and less significant compared to their monumental achievements. Focusing on their legacy and the impact they’ve had seemed more fitting than rehashing old conflicts. It’s about honoring their contributions rather than indulging in reality TV-style drama.
The Telegraph Online: The nature of their rift must have evolved over time.
Namrata Rao: Indeed. Their feelings towards each other have matured. Now, their interactions are marked by grace and mutual respect. They are cordial and supportive when they meet, which reflects the growth and changes in their relationship over the decades.
The Telegraph Online: It’s heartwarming to see Salim and Javed together in the final moments of the series. Did they know about this reunion?
Namrata Rao: Yes, they were aware of the meeting. We were discreetly waiting on the sidelines as they came together for the event.
The Telegraph Online: Their interaction seemed filled with warmth and humor.
Namrata Rao: Absolutely. Their easy camaraderie and playful interactions are a testament to their enduring friendship. The reunion took place at Shivaji Park during a Diwali light inauguration. The event was grand, with a lively atmosphere that suited their reunion perfectly.
The Telegraph Online: Do they often discuss each other in their conversations?
Namrata Rao: They frequently talk about each other and their shared history. Their discussions often highlight their mutual respect and fondness. For example, Javed sir credits Salim sir for the idea behind a famous scene in Sholay, while Salim sir acknowledges Javed sir’s contribution to the dialogue. Their conversations reflect the deep bond they share and the nostalgia of their collaborative past.