Richie Mehta was in Delhi in December 2012 when the world around him collapsed, as it did for Indians all over the globe, when the heinous gangrape of a woman in Delhi’s Munirka became the headlines of the morning, and it was apparent to those involved in the aftermath of the 2012 gangrape that the world would not be the same again.
I saw the world collapse around us, and our understanding of humanity was in a really precarious place. Several months later, I was working on a project when I met Neeraj Kumar who had just retired as the Commissioner of Delhi Police. He said that I should make a film on this incident, and the investigation that followed. I didn't think it was appropriate to make a film on this, but he insisted I meet the officers involved, and read the verdict that had just come out in the Sessions Court, Mehta says.
Kumar introduced Mehta to the police officers involved in the case, leaving him intrigued as to how they had dealt with a crime that was still baffling to most. Every time Mehta would interview a police officer, they would tell him their point of view, but they would all unanimously point to one woman — Chhaya Sharma, who was DCP South Delhi at the time.
When I met her and began speaking to her, I really formed an affinity with this hero. I started to see the point of view of this woman, who led to the investigation into the crime. I began to see her point of view as a woman first, and then as a cop. As I wrote it and researched the case, many people I spoke to didn't want to have anything to do with this series. It was controversial. Florence Sloan, Pooja Kohli, and Apoorva Bakshi came together as producers, and collectively decided to take a huge chance on this project. Afterwards, it was picked up by Simran Sethi at Netflix. Neha Kaul from Netflix India led the team in releasing it, Mehta says.
This story is from the January 2021 edition of Man's World.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 2021 edition of Man's World.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Rekha At 70 The Enduring Mystique
More than a generation after she was last seen on screen, the mystique that she successfully wrapped herself in continues to serve her well in the public imagination. Her fleeting public appearances in dazzling silk sarees and makeup continue to beguile the camera in the same manner it did at the peak of her career
iPhone Fatigue
Do we really need an annual Apple flagship release?
Men's Guide To Combat Premature Hair Loss
Male pattern baldness hit men at an early age, at times in late 30s and early 40s. We asked the experts the reason behind it, treatments that can help, and factors to take care of
SMRITI MANDHANA MAKES CRICKET LOOK EASY
In conversation with Man's World for Hyundai Drive Within campaign, the stylish Indian batter talks about her craft, evolution, and her thoughts on women's cricket
Pritam Hitting The High Note
A National Award for Brahmastra: Part One Shiva this year and songs that continue to clock millions of streams, Pritam Chakraborty proves why he's one of the most acclaimed Hindi Film music directors of our time
JEMIMAH RODRIGUES IS HAVING THE TIME OF HER LIFE
In conversation with Man's World as a part of Hyundai Drive Within campaign, Jemimah Rodrigues take us through the drive within her that inspires her to be the best in her business.
SHAFALI VERMA IN A LEAGUE OF HER OWN
In conversation with Man's World India as a part of the Hyundai Drive Within campaign, Shafali Verma opens up about her historic double century, her fearless brand of cricket, and more
Hands Onl Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver's Watch SPB455 100th Anniversary Edition
Seiko's 100th anniversary of the first watch to bear its name brought an exciting addition to its famed Prospex collection; a timepiece that pays homage to the brand's iconic history while embracing modern ideas of versatile wearability
WATCHES ON THE WILD SIDE ATYPICAL CASE DESIGNS
Horology isn't just about precision. It's also about understanding the rules of perception-and sometimes, taking a sledgehammer to them
Denim The Timeless Trendsetter
Crystal Henricksen, Head of Denim Design at GAP, shares with us what makes the fabric simple, versatile, and timeless