Some of my films take a long time to get made like Bose, because a lot of research and many locations were involved. It was a very big and difficult film to make, so it took time. I hope there will not be too much time between films now.

With new types of cinema being made now, how would rate Indian cinema then and now?

I think in Indian cinema, younger directors are bringing fresh ideas and making some very intelligent and good films. Rock On!! is a fantastic film. This is the first young generation that is making exciting films after a very long time. But still, it is difficult to say if it is better now and then. Each generation has its own interests and concerns, so you can't compare. Each is good in its own time.

What do you do when you are not making films?

When I'm not shooting, I am fretting. I am unhappy. I prefer to work and shoot all the time. I am always very happy when I am working.

You will be 74 this December. What keeps you ticking?

Work and films.

Your next project is a musical called Chamki. What is that about? Why has the film been delayed?

It will not be made in a hurry because we have to put together everything very carefully. We need the right cast and crew for the film. Chamki is an adaptation of a famous Spanish story called Carmen. But I am working on a comedy next and I don't want to talk about it yet.

Photograph: A still from Zubeida

Also read: Shreyas Talpade on Mahadev Ka Sajjanpur

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