Rajkumar Hirani, the acclaimed director behind cinematic successes like "3 Idiots," has offered insights into why his latest film, "Dunki," starring Shah Rukh Khan, did not connect with audiences as strongly as his previous works. Released in 2023, "Dunki" garnered mixed reviews and saw a more modest box office performance compared to Khan's other recent blockbusters such as "Pathaan" and "Jawan."
Hirani on "Dunki"'s Audience Relatability
Speaking on Sanjay Arora's YouTube channel, Hirani explained that a film's impact often hinges on how closely its narrative aligns with the audience's personal experiences. He contrasted "Dunki" with a film like "3 Idiots," which tackled the universally understood theme of the education system, resonating with nearly every household. "When I am making a film like Dunki, it is restricted to the people who are into illegal immigration," Hirani stated.
He elaborated that a significant portion of India's cinema-going public belongs to the middle class, individuals who generally face fewer hurdles in obtaining international visas. This demographic, he suggested, found it challenging to empathize with the struggles of characters who are unable to secure legal travel documents and are "condemned to stay where they are born." Hirani highlighted the plight of those without financial means or bank balances, for whom legal migration is often an impossible dream.
Inspiration from Visa Coaching Centers
The genesis of "Dunki" stemmed from Hirani's observations of numerous visa coaching centers in Punjab, where people prepare to move overseas. His initial curiosity evolved into extensive research, including a unique undercover visit to one such institute during the Covid-19 pandemic. Donning a mask, he attended a trial class, describing the experience as both "sad and humorous." He noted the disconnect between the teachers' English proficiency and the students' primary motivation: securing a student visa to migrate abroad.
About the Film "Dunki"
"Dunki" follows a group of friends from a Punjabi village who aspire to settle in the UK. Unable to obtain legal visas, they resort to the perilous "donkey flight" route. Shah Rukh Khan portrays Hardy, leading a cast that includes Taapsee Pannu and Vicky Kaushal, as they navigate exploitation, life-threatening situations, and emotional turmoil on their journey. The narrative weaves between past and present, exploring the profound impact of their migration.
Pride Despite Mixed Reception
Despite the varied reception, Hirani expressed no regrets about making "Dunki." "Not that nobody related with the film, I am still very proud of the film," he affirmed. He acknowledged that while some films naturally resonate with larger audiences, others connect with a more specific segment, a natural part of any filmmaker's career graph.