“He Didn’t Just Shoot It, He Lived It”: Aditya Dhar’s Powerful Tribute to Cinematographer Vikash Nowlakha Wins Hearts

In an industry where collaborations often stay behind the scenes, filmmaker Aditya Dhar has brought one such partnership into the spotlight with an emotional and deeply personal note. The director, known for films like URI and Article 370, recently poured his heart out while honoring cinematographer Vikash Nowlakha for his extraordinary contribution to their upcoming film Dhurandhar. And this isn’t just a routine appreciation post—it’s a rare glimpse into a creative bond built on instinct, trust, and sheer passion.

 

Dhar revealed that Nowlakha joined Dhurandhar as the last Head of Department, just days before filming began. But what might have seemed like a last-minute decision turned out to be, in Dhar’s words, “destiny quietly stepping in at the right moment.” The turning point? Nowlakha’s reaction to the script. “I’ve waited 30 years to do a film like this. I’ll give my life to it,” he told Dhar—and by all accounts, he delivered on that promise with unwavering commitment.

 

What followed was nothing short of cinematic endurance. Dhar described the shoot as equivalent to making two films within the time and budget of one—an intense, often chaotic process that demanded more than just technical expertise. Through the scorching heat of Amritsar and the biting cold of Leh, Nowlakha remained the steady force holding the visual narrative together. He wasn’t just operating the camera; he was carrying the emotional weight of the film on his shoulders, ensuring the vision never wavered despite the challenges.

 

But beyond the physical grit, Dhar emphasized what truly sets Nowlakha apart—his soul as a storyteller. Calling his work “devotion,” the director highlighted the cinematographer’s rare ability to feel a scene, not just frame it. His inputs were quiet yet precise, always elevating the storytelling without overpowering it. “There are many who shoot films. Vikash lived this one,” Dhar wrote, crediting him for giving Dhurandhar something invaluable—its soul.

 

Accompanying the heartfelt note were behind-the-scenes glimpses that spoke volumes about their creative synergy. From directing together on a rain-soaked night set to candid off-camera smiles and intense on-set discussions, the images captured a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared vision. One striking frame even shows Nowlakha in action, fully immersed in his craft, surrounded by the chaos of a live set—yet completely in control.

 

Dhar concluded his tribute with gratitude and a promise for the future, hinting that this collaboration is just the beginning. If this note is anything to go by, Dhurandhar isn’t just another film in the making—it’s a labor of love shaped by artists who didn’t just work on it, but truly lived it.

Facebook Comments