AND, ACTION!

ASHIM AHLUWALIA, THE DIRECTOR OF NETFLIX MEGAHIT, CLASS, SHARES EVERYTHING FROM HIS VISION FOR THE SHOW TO HIS PROCESS BEHIND THE CAMERA

- JEENA J BILLIMORIA

With a passion for filmmaking that stands apart from the mainstream in the best way possible, Ashim Ahluwalia has told tales in a very special manner by way of his direction on both the silver and TV screens. A National Award winner best known for critically acclaimed and provocative works like Thin Air, Daddy and Miss Lovely, his latest directorial project is based on the Spanish global hit, Elite. Retitled Class for the Indian audience, this Netflix series has garnered praise and also opened discussion on the pressing issues that the youth of India face today. HELLO! chats with the man of the moment to find out more…

Your style of directing is unique, and you tell stories in a distinctive way. What would you say is your ‘trademark’? 

I’ve never fit into any particular space, so I guess I start by knowing there are no rules I need to follow. I just make things that don’t exist in the world yet, things I would like to watch through my perspective. What I feel like I can do is try and share that. I’m just glad others appreciate those things, as well. I need to learn something new from every project and make sure I don’t repeat myself. That’s about it!

Much like its Spanish installment, Class is made up of complex characters and hasn’t shied away from the caste and class systems in India, homosexuality and sexual content. How were you able to navigate these intricate elements for an audience that’s a little more conservative than the West?