‘I’m naturally inclined towards stories of valour’: Prasoon Joshi on penning the dialogues and lyrics of Manikarnika

Prasoon Joshi admits that when it comes to stories of bravery and national heroes, he has always wondered why Rani Lakshmibai’s story hasn’t found many takers in Bollywood. That’s why he was more than happy to green-light Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi, when it was offered to him. In a candid chat, the wordsmith reveals more. Excerpts…

Post Neerja (2016), you didn’t choose any other assignment?

Yes, I was contemplating many subjects. Moreover, I was travelling a lot. I also became the chief of the Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and was trying to streamline as well as smoothen the whole process. I signed Manikarnika two years ago.

So, what made you say yes to it?

I had been thinking of doing something new. Producer Kamal Jain explained the subject to me and asked me if I would be interested. Subsequently, I met the entire team. The one thing that struck me was why more films have not been made on Rani Lakshmibai before. She is a national hero and I felt ashamed that we haven’t done many movies on her... at least five films should have been. So, I felt I must write for this project.

What do you feel about Kangana Ranaut playing the lead role?

She was an apt choice. I have always liked her work. I feel she does every role with complete dedication. She was a natural fit here.

Does a historical require more research than a contemporary subject?

Every subject requires research and understanding. As for Rani Lakshmibai, I knew more folklore than the nitty-gritty of her story. But it’s something that has always interested me because I have this natural inclination towards bravery, valour and stories of our pre-independence era. So, writing for it was an organic process. The key message is that the independence we gained wasn’t achieved only because of slogans, but because of sacrifice. Sirf naaron se nahin, khoon ki dhaaron se bhi mili hai azaadi. Many people, especially the youth, don’t realise it. Rani Lakshmibai’s story inspires us. It asks whether you want to waste your youth or dedicate it to the country. What did she get out of it? She could have taken a pension and lived a good life. That’s what struck me and I wrote Main rahoon ya na rahoon, Bharat yeh rehna chahiye.

You have had a long association with Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy. How was it collaborating with them once again?

From Phir Milenge (2004) to Taare Zameen Par (2007), London Dreams (2009) and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), we have done a lot of films together. It’s always a joy to work with them.