Start Of Something Big

Ishaan Khatter is destiny’s child, believes Raghuvendra Singh

Ishaan Khatter is at an unusual career cusp. He’s made an impressive impact with internationally acclaimed Iranian filmmaker, Majid Majidi’s Beyond The Clouds. The film, which has been the toast of festivals, recently released in India and left audiences speechless. While it was shot in the underbelly of Mumbai, it explored themes of suffering and survival, which are universal.

On the other hand, his much-touted remake of the blockbuster Sairat, Dhadak, is awaited with bated breath. Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, it couldn’t get larger for young Ishaan. “Yes, it’s incredible. These opportunities are tremendous and rare," he smiles. "That they found in me a suitable performer is gratifying and humbling. I want to continue working in films that are meaningful.”

Ishaan plays Amir, a street hustler and drug dealer in Beyond The Clouds. Malavika Mohanan, as Tara, is his sister. The sibling bond is put to test when Tara lands in jail for a crime committed by Amir. The film, say critics, is a grown-up version of Majidi’s previously directed Children of Heaven (1997). “Someone with Majid Majidi sir’s vision, perspective and expertise chose me meant a lot. I thought if he has chosen me and he thinks me worthy of doing this part, then I must also set aside all my inhibitions and surrender to his vision. I didn’t choose the film, it chose me,” says Ishaan who was applauded for his stark portrayal of a drug dealer.