Kayoze Irani makes his directorial debut with 'Sarzameen'; Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran says...

Directed by Kayoze Irani, Sarzameen has been released on JioCinema. The film, inspired by patriotism, stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kajol, and Ibrahim Ali Khan in pivotal roles. With Sarzameen, Kayoze makes his directorial debut. The film is produced by Dharma Productions. Recently, Kayoze and Prithviraj spoke to a media house, sharing their experiences related to the film. Here's what they had to say...

When so many patriotic films have already been made, what makes ‘Sarzameen’ stand out from the rest?

Kayoze: You're right, the film does have patriotism and national pride at its core, but it’s not just a patriotic film. It’s actually an emotional thriller that explores the relationships between a father, a son, and a mother. The story revolves around human emotions. Kashmir is the backdrop, but the real conflict is within the family. That’s what drew me toward this film. I was attracted to it because of the family drama. I thought about it from the perspective of an audience member.

When you first heard the story of ‘Sarzameen’, what convinced you to instantly become part of it?

Prithviraj: Around 2022, I was shooting abroad when Karan Johar sent me the script. I read it and immediately told him, “I want to do this film.” At that point, I didn’t even know who else was involved or who the director was. When I was told that Kayoze was directing it, I watched one of his short films, which I really liked. I felt the story was deeply sensitive and emotionally grounded, so I joined the project.

What was the casting process like? What factors did you consider while selecting actors for the roles?

Kayoze: Karan sir told me we should first approach Prithviraj sir. As Prithvi sir mentioned, he agreed to the film the same day he read the script. I couldn’t believe it at first, but it was true. Then we went to Kajol ma’am — I told her the story and called sir, thinking she might say no. But in the evening, she called to say she liked the script and wanted to do the film. As for Ibrahim, one day I was on the set of Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, where he was standing in for Ranveer Singh. He looked great on camera, so I cast him in my film.

What was your vision for ‘Sarzameen’? Is it fair to call it just a political thriller, or is it more than that?

Kayoze: No, my film is an emotional thriller. I want the audience to leave the theatre with tears in their eyes. You might have sensed from the trailer that the film is filled with emotion.

When you're acting on set, how do you keep your director's mindset separate? How do you balance both roles?

Prithviraj: Since becoming a director, I’ve found this balance quite easy. I’ve said this even before my first directorial. On set, I function only as an actor. Of course, I know how everything works behind the scenes. But as an actor, I don’t let that influence me. I act as directed, without thinking about technical aspects.

‘Sarzameen’ marks your directorial debut — how was the journey from being an AD (Assistant Director) to becoming a director? Challenging, emotional, or full of learning?

Kayoze: I started working as an AD when I was 18–19 years old. It’s been a long journey. I’ve worked very hard to prove myself in this industry. This is the most exciting phase of my life. Even my worst day on the Sarzameen set was better than the best day on any other project. It’s the result of nearly three years of effort that is now in front of the audience. Karan Johar once told me, “This film is no longer yours — it's the audience’s now.” That line will always stay with me.

You’ve worked with a veteran like Karan Johar — what was it like working under him as a producer?

Kayoze: Karan Sir is a director-producer. He gives his input, but never imposes it. He told me, “Even if you mess up, I’ll stand by you. And if you succeed, I’ll celebrate with you.” That meant everything. I’m truly happy to have worked with Dharma Productions.

Has your experience as a director helped you become a better actor?

Prithviraj: Absolutely. Being an actor has helped me a lot in directing, and vice versa. I always try to get the best out of my actors — and that requires giving my own best as well. My understanding of the technical side of filmmaking also helps me as an actor because I know how to align my performance with the process.

How important is it to grasp the nuances of language when performing in Hindi? How did you manage that?

Prithviraj: I studied at a Sainik School where we were taught Hindi. I can read and write in Hindi. I’m fluent in Malayalam, English, and Tamil, and I can speak some Telugu as well. For improving my Hindi pronunciation, I work with diction coach Vikas. He’s helped me in every Hindi film I’ve done — from Aurangzeb to Sarzameen.

The film features legendary singers — how did such a strong musical collaboration come together?

Kayoze: Everyone we approached said yes immediately. B Praak sir said, “Let’s dub it this evening itself.” We were fortunate to have the support of Shreya Ghoshal, Sonu Nigam, Vishal Mishra, and Javed Ali. The music was made at Yash Raj Studios, and I’m very emotionally attached to it.

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