Despite 22 years after its release, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi still enjoys cult status ahead of the film’s anniversary on July 30, writer-director Anais Bazmi Looking back on the film with immense gratitude while acknowledging that if he were writing it today, it would be a completely different story. In an exclusive chat with ETimes, Bazmee talks about the film’s enduring popularity, his writing process, creating unforgettable characters and his collaboration with Akshay KumarAnd why he believes that memorable movies are always the result of perfect teamwork.
Anees Bazmee reveals that he composed Mujhse Shaadi Karoge for himself
Reflect on the success of this event Salman KhanAkshay Kumar and Priyanka Chopra Starring Bazmee said its popularity is the result of the seamless combination of multiple creative elements. Anees reflects, “I believe that any film that continues to be loved over the years will be successful because many things fall into place at the right time. A strong script, effective direction, acting, music, visuals – everything contributes. In Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, many aspects worked perfectly and that’s why audiences still enjoy watching it.”“Interestingly, Bazmee revealed that he originally wrote the film with the intention of directing it himself. “I wrote the script myself. I wanted to direct the film. But David Dhawan and Sajid Nadiadwala are very close friends. David had earlier directed Deewana Mastana, which I had written, after which we did not work together for a while. When they expressed their desire to make the film, I was happy to give them the script as we have friendship and trust between us,” he revealed.When asked how the film would have changed if Mujhse Shaadi Karogi was written today, Bazmi was quick to reply, “I have changed a lot as a person and as a writer. My thoughts, beliefs and understanding of life have changed over the years. If I had written Mujhse Shaadi Karogi today, it would certainly not be the same. Every writer grows with experience.” The author admitted that while the film is still loved by fans, he approaches it very differently today.Bazmee, known for creating memorable comic book characters, said story and character development go hand in hand. He said: “I always start with the story and understand what is going to happen in the film. But what is equally important is how lovable and entertaining the characters are. In real life too, you remember some people because you enjoyed being with them. The same goes for movies.” Bazmee believes that audiences are naturally attracted to unique personalities on screen. “Most people in everyday life are ordinary. That’s why when audiences see interesting characters in movies, they immediately connect with them,” he explains.
Bazmee cites the example of Mushtaq Bhai’s character in “Welcome”
“He’s not even a major character in such a big film, but people still remember him because of his quirky personality and dialogues. That’s the power of a well-written character.” Bazmee says his writing process changes depending on the project. Sometimes he imagined a specific actor while writing, and other times he adapted the script after casting.“Akshay Kumar was always in my mind when I wrote ‘Singh Is King’ because I had such a wonderful experience working with him in ‘Welcome’. But in many films, I write the script first and then revise it after the actors come on board.” He believes that it is the screenwriter’s responsibility to understand the strengths and limitations of each actor. “Every actor has certain areas where they shine, and there are areas where they might not be very good at it. Writers should highlight strengths and avoid exposing weaknesses. That’s how the character becomes more effective,” shares the director.
Nana Patekar’s inspiration Uday Shetty There’s an ‘Uday Take Control’ moment in the script
Bazmee also shared how interacting with Nana Patekar helped him recreate the iconic Uday Shetty character in Welcome. “While writing the character, Nanaki was always on my mind. But after meeting him, I realized that rather than having him yell when he gets angry, as audiences usually expect, I thought it would be more interesting if he controlled himself. This is how the famous “Uday Shetty… takes control” moment found its way into the script.“However, Arness also said that writers cannot rely on one actor. “You might dream of a certain actor playing a role, but if that doesn’t happen, you can’t let a year and a half of writing go to waste. You have to stay pragmatic,” he explains.
Bazmee rarely watches her own movies
Despite writing several iconic films, Bazmee admits that he hardly revisits them after their release. “I usually don’t watch my movies anymore. But my family, friends and assistants keep watching them and telling me which scenes they like. Interestingly, everyone’s favorite movies are different. Some like ‘Swarg’, some like ‘Shola Aur Shabnam’, some like ‘Aankhen’ and some like ‘Ladla’. Whenever I happen to see them performing at home, I watch some of the scenes.“Looking back at ‘Mujhse Shaadi Karogi’, Bazmee recalls the experience fondly. “It was a joy to write and make. Salman Khan and I have always had a great friendship. Akshay and I had already worked together and always had a great time on the sets. David Dhawan and Sajid Nadiadwala were like family to me. Priyanka Chopra was relatively new at the time and everyone brought a wonderful energy to the film.”