Filmmaker: Siddharth P Malhotra revealed that the script for the much anticipated Meena Kumari biopic, reportedly titled ‘Kamal Aur Meena’, is complete, and its foundation is unlike anything seen before in Indian biographical cinema, drawn entirely from personal letters and diary entries left by the legendary actor himself.
Meena Kumari’s own words at the heart of the script
Speaking to Mid-Day, Siddharth P Malhotra revealed that the script was created from a rare archive of letters between Meena Kumari and her filmmaker husband Kamal Amrohi. “Luckily, we have their handwritten love letters and diaries. So, our film is based on their 2000 letters and diary notes. In a way, they have told us what to write, in their own words,” he said.The film is set to explore the deeply complex and tragic relationship between Kumari and Amrohi, with a significant focus on their iconic 1972 film ‘Pakeezah’. The screenplay is done by acclaimed writers Bhavani Iyer and Kausar Munir.
Casting is still going on
With the script locked, the production is now focused on assembling its cast. Malhotra confirmed, “We have finalized the scripting and are working towards casting. The project is expected to wrap up by the end of the year.”Speculation is rife about who will portray Meena Kumari on screen, with: Kiara AdvaniHis name repeatedly appeared in the reports. However, the director revealed that nothing has been finalized yet. “Until it’s locked, it’s locked. It’s [how] the business is. Not just the actor; this is the total cost of the item [that is a determinant]” he said.
Another Meena Kumari biopic has been shelved
‘Kamal Aur Meena’ is not the only biopic announced on the legendary actor. Fashion designer-turned-producer Manish Malhotra has also announced a biopic on Meena Kumari with Kriti Sanon in the lead role. That project was later shelved.
About the director’s upcoming release
Siddharth P Malhotra’s next release is ‘Ikka’, a film starring Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna, which is set to stream on Netflix from July 10.