Veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt has shared his thoughts on the upcoming action thriller Naam – To Live is War, starring Veer Pahariya and Varun Sharma in the lead roles. The filmmaker has come on board as the presenter of the project, whose title takes inspiration from his 1986 blockbuster Naam.
Speaking about the film`s lead actors, Bhatt praised the younger generation`s understanding of cinema and their ambition to succeed. He expressed confidence in Veer and Varun`s potential, saying, “They are far more cinematically literate than we were. They have the thirst and urgency to create a place for themselves under the sun. If their collective drive can be used and funnelled down then they will have a unique film in their hands.”
Veer Pahariya and Varun Sharma
The film marks the first collaboration between Veer and Varun. While Veer will be seen playing an angry young man with grey shades, Varun is set to portray a fierce antagonist, marking a departure from the comic roles he is widely known for.
Bhatt also spoke about producers Riddhi Chawda and Utsav Upadhyay, highlighting the challenges of surviving in the film industry. According to the veteran filmmaker, resilience and self-belief are often more important than talent alone.
He noted that what could set the producers apart is their willingness to stay true to themselves and take creative risks. Bhatt encouraged them to trust their instincts and have the courage to chart their own path in the industry.
Advice for Sidhaant Sachdev
The filmmaker also had words of advice for director Sidhaant Sachdev, who has co-written the film alongside Suhrita Das and Shweta Bothra. Bhatt stressed the importance of balancing creative vision with practical realities, particularly when it comes to managing budgets.
At the same time, he urged the director not to compromise on his artistic convictions. “He must stay fiercely committed to his vision. He can take insights from all of us. But he must understand that in this business there is democracy till a point and then there is dictatorship,” Bhatt said.
Produced by Utsav Entertainment and Productions, with Alphaneon Studioz attached as the studio partner, Naam – To Live is War is based on an original script by Sidhaant Sachdev, Suhrita Das and Shweta Bothra. While the plot remains under wraps, the film has already generated curiosity thanks to its fresh casting and Bhatt`s endorsement.
-Inputs from IANS