“I still feel proud of my film Bobby Jasoos — even if it didn’t do well at the box office” – Dia Mirza

Actress Dia Mirza’s web series Kaafir (2019), directed by Sonam Nair, has recently been released on ZEE5 as a feature film, nearly seven years after its original digital release. In an exclusive conversation, Dia opens up about the transformation of Kaafir, her filmmaking journey, the challenges of being a producer, and her upcoming projects.

Your web series Kaafir has now been released as a feature film after 7 years. How did that feel?

I’m genuinely happy that Kaafir has been presented as a film now. It’s such a beautiful and powerful story that deeply connects with people. Interestingly, it was originally written as a film, but for years, it just didn’t get made. Eventually, ZEE5 adapted it into a web series. I remember writer Bhavani Iyer telling me, “Maybe this story was waiting for you.” (laughs) I’d say, “I was waiting for this story.” It came to me at a time when I was fully ready — emotionally, mentally, and artistically — to be a part of it.

What was your biggest fear when you entered the film industry?

Next year marks 25 years of my journey in this industry. I started when I was just 19 with Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein. Back then, my biggest fear was — what if I stopped getting work? We were constantly told that actresses had a shelf life. By the time you’re 32 or 33, you stop getting offers. You only start getting work again at 40 if you’ve already established yourself. That was scary. But thankfully, in the past five to six years, things have started to change. And I’ve been fortunate to get some of the best roles of my career now. It shows that both the times and mindsets are evolving — and we’re finally walking in the direction of change.

After Bobby Jasoos, you took a break from producing. Why didn’t you return to it sooner?

Actually, I recently produced a Marathi short film called Panaah, directed by Sakshi Mishra. It’s a lovely little story that’s been screened at several film festivals — and it has even won a few awards. So I wouldn’t say I stepped away. I’ve just become more selective and intentional with the kind of stories I want to back.

As a producer, what values or principles do you always keep in mind?

When I produced Love Breakups Zindagi in 2011, I was just 26. From the start, I’ve always believed in treating everyone — cast and crew — equally. A film set should be a space where everyone feels respected and valued. Making a film is incredibly hard. So when you create an atmosphere of love and mutual respect, it becomes a very fulfilling experience. I felt the same while making Bobby Jasoos in 2014. Over time, you also learn what kind of stories connect with audiences. Back when we signed Vidya Balan, her films were doing really well. But by the time Bobby Jasoos released, a few of her films had underperformed, and the industry’s perception had shifted. That’s when I realized — you must stay rooted in your story. If you believe in it, the right people will stand by you. That belief is unshakeable. And even today, I feel proud of that film.

Your film Nadaaniyan faced quite a bit of criticism. You were part of that project. How do you look at that experience now?

It’s okay to dislike a film. Everyone’s entitled to have personal opinions — whether they like or dislike a project. What I do find troubling is when criticism gets personal and people become abusive. That reflects a very unhealthy mindset. I believe that those with privilege today face even more pressure and negativity. Criticism is valid, but it should serve a constructive purpose.

What upcoming projects are you currently working on?

We’re actively preparing for Dhak Dhak 2. Besides that, I just wrapped up shooting for a new web series, which is scheduled to release next year.

A Look at Dia Mirza’s Memorable Film Journey Through the Years

Over the years, Dia Mirza has appeared in several memorable films including Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (2001), Tehzeeb (2003), Tumsa Nahin Dekha (2004), Dus (2005), My Brother… Nikhil (2005), Parineeta (2005), Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), Dus Kahaniyaan (2007), Kurbaan (2009), Salaam Mumbai (2016), Sanju (2018), Thappad (2020), Wild Dog (2021), Dhak Dhak (2023), IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack (2024), and the upcoming Nadaaniyan (2025).

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