Director Sonam Nair made her debut at the age of 27. She has directed shows like Masaba Masaba on Netflix and Dupahiya currently streaming on Prime Video IN.
In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, she spoke about her journey and the response and success of the show ever since it has streamed.
Edited excerpts from the interview
What was the feeling like when you made your first film at the age of 27?
That was such a happy and exciting time for me. I was so young and optimistic that everything just happened so much more easily than it did later on. I wrote a script, and it got made and I thought everything else would be as easy, but actually after that is when the actual ups and downs of my career began.
How did the idea of Dupahiya come about?
The show is created by Shubh, Salona, Avinash and Chirag. Once the script was developed under Amazon Prime, they came to me to direct it. It was an amazing gift that was just handed to me. I will always be grateful they came to me with this stellar script.
What are the some of the best responses you’ve received so far?
I heard that David Dhawan Sir is loving the show. And also Sooraj Barjatya Sir. Two of the most iconic directors of my childhood. That was amazing to hear. I also love how people of all ages are enjoying the series. A friend from the US messaged me yesterday thanking me for giving her 80+ parents so much joy and laughter at their age. That was beautiful.
What’s your take on the comparisons with Panchayat?
I’m very flattered and excited that we can have their audience come in to watch our show. We know the story, characters, the look and pitch are all totally different, so we’re taking it as a very positive thing.
Also how did the idea of your show Masaba Masaba come about since it was much appreciated?
Our producer Ashvini Yardi had this idea that Masaba and Neenaji could play versions of themselves in a scripted show. I loved the idea and wrote it based loosely on some incidents in their lives and mostly fiction. That balance was tricky but a fun challenge. Directing it was so much fun, because it was a set full of fiery, funny women.