Navigating the Broken Rules: A Writer’s Journey in Bollywood

Niren Bhatt discusses the struggles and opportunities for writers in the Hindi film industry, emphasizing the importance of original content amidst a system broken by reliance on remakes. Despite challenges, he highlights the potential for disruptors to flourish in crafting unique cinematic universes.

At the 7th Indian Screenwriters Conference, Niren Bhatt discussed the current challenges and opportunities facing writers in Bollywood amidst a lack of original stories. Despite the bleak outlook for many writers, Bhatt views it as the ideal time for disruptors to shine by creating innovative and original narratives.

Bhatt pointed out Bollywood's obsession with remakes, noting that 23 out of 25 post-pandemic remakes flopped at the box office. He strongly believes that the key to success lies in crafting original content, urging writers to break free from traditional molds and take risks.

He also expressed the dream many writers hold of creating expansive universes in film. With experience in Dinesh Vijan's Maddock horror-comedy franchise, Bhatt is also working on projects like "Thama," "Stree 3," and "Bhediya 2," further amplifying his dedication to original storytelling.