Kriti Sanon and Kanika Dhillon: The Dynamic Duo Behind ‘Do Patti’

National Award-winning actress Kriti Sanon has taken a new step in her career as a producer with her upcoming film 'Do Patti.' Directed by Shashank Chaturvedi, a recent press conference was held to unveil details about the film. Kriti Sanon, along with the film’s writer and producer Kanika Dhillon, answered questions from the media, discussing the film, their favorite actresses, character portrayals, and the storyline.

• You have previously written films for Netflix that we have thoroughly enjoyed. Why did you choose to make this a Netflix original?

Kanika: The reason is simple. When you write a film as a writer and hand it over to a director or producer, you often lose that connection. But if you want to be genuinely involved, to be part of the journey from start to finish, you need to ensure that what’s on paper translates into the emotions and vibes that the audience feels when they watch it. I thought there couldn't be a better way to tell my story than with a great producer by my side. This story is very special and close to our hearts, and it carries a lot of emotional weight. When I first shared the story with Kriti, I saw tears in her eyes. It was gratifying to know she loved the story and is also my producing partner.

• As soon as I learned that Kriti and Kajol were in this film, I was ready to buy my ticket. When did Kajol come on board?

Kanika: As a writer, I was thrilled that Kriti and Kajol would portray these characters. Kajol came on board a bit later. We were considering two other names for the role initially. I remember when I was narrating the script to her, she started knitting a sweater. I wasn't sure if she was listening to me, but as soon as I finished the script, she reacted very positively and said yes. After that, I called Kriti and said, “Kriti, she’s on board!”

Kriti: When Kanika was writing her character, we constantly discussed that we needed an actor with depth and weight to bring it to life. The flow of the story depends on her perspective, so we required an actor who could shine in it. Kajol is absolutely perfect for this; she has portrayed diverse roles. I’m working with her again after many years since 'Dilwale,' and I was quite nervous back then.

• Did you already have Kajol in mind when you wrote the police officer character?

Kanika: I had written the police officer character beforehand. In fact, when I was in a meeting with Kajol and narrating the whole story, I told myself that the police officer would enter on a bike.

• Kriti plays a double role, and Kajol plays a police officer. Can you tell us more about the film?

Kanika: "Two Leaves." I won’t say much, but it’s a delicate story about two sisters with a tumultuous relationship. It revolves around a police officer caught in the dilemma of following the rules or listening to her heart. The story delves deeply into various relationships—those that are broken, incomplete, and whole. It raises questions about what is ultimately right and wrong. Sometimes, what is deemed right according to society or in books, should it always be accepted as such. Or should you use your moral judgment to decide what feels right for you?

• What is your all-time favorite female character?

Kanika: It’s the character Tanushree from 'Tanu Weds Manu,' written by my husband.
Kriti: I really love the character Geet. I think every girl admires her. It’s one of the first films I watched three times in theaters.

• Is there an iconic female-centric film you’d like to remake and produce?

Kanika: Recently, I watched a film recommended by a friend, 'Mirch Masala,' featuring Smita Patil, directed by K.K. Desai. I became a fan after just one viewing. I was so impressed by the story, characters, and emotions it portrayed. If you haven’t seen ‘Mirch Masala,’ you must! It’s about women’s empowerment and the fight against injustice—a rare gem for its time, and as a woman, I found it very inspiring.

• In which comedy film would you like to act?

Kriti: That’s a tough one, but I love comedy. My answer would be 'Chaar Bazz.' If someone could remake it today and create a fan club around it, I think it would be fantastic.

• What is the biggest difference you find when speaking with actresses from the 80s and 90s?

Kriti: I think the times are very different now. When I speak with Kareena, Tabu, or Kajol, they tell me they didn’t take as long to prepare. They changed things as needed, and everything was more straightforward back then. They didn't have the pressure to be fashion-conscious for every event. When I look at Filmfare Awards from that era, they wore simple suits and dresses, sometimes jeans and tops. Now, the standards have changed significantly.

• If you could write for any actress from the 80s or 90s, who would it be?

Kanika:  Madhuri Ji! I adore her.

• Who is your favorite actress from the 80s and 90s comedy?

Kanika: Sridevi.

• What advice would you give to young girls entering the film industry?

Kriti: Just keep working on yourself; that’s very important. You need to keep moving forward.
Kanika: Keep a smile on your face, have confidence, and wear a thick skin.

• An actress you’ve seen in the U.S.?

Kanika: Rekha Ji.
Kriti: My answer is the same. Madhuri Ji was my first choice. Perhaps that’s why we are both producers.

• An actress you haven’t met yet and would like to?

Kanika: Madhuri Dixit.
Kriti: I don’t know; I can’t think of just one. I really like Rekha Ma'am.

• Question: How do you handle criticism?

Kriti: With confidence. I believe everyone will have something to say because everyone has an opinion and sometimes feels the need to express it. But you should ensure you surround yourself with genuine people—those who honestly tell you when you are good and when you’re not. That’s how you receive real criticism. I always take honest feedback seriously, not coming from a place of wanting to put others down. I reflect on it and see if I agree with it. You also need to listen to the voice in your head.

• What are three things you never compromise on while going on a road trip?

Kanika: A water bottle, a great music player, and a good conversation partner.

• What’s your go-to hair tool?

Kriti: A hair straightener. I don’t know how to curl my hair.

• What’s the craziest hairstyle you’ve ever had?

Kanika: In tenth grade, before my board exams, I was so stressed that I went to a salon got a hard cut, and dyed my hair red. I thought I made it worse!

You should note that this film will stream on Netflix from October 25. Kriti will be seen in a double role, reminiscent of 'Seeta Aur Geeta.' Alongside her, Kajol will portray a police officer, and Shaheer Sheikh will also be featured in the film. Previously, Kajol and Kriti shared the screen in 'Dilwale.'

By Priyanka Yadav

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