Tahira Kashyap Khurrana’s films have a lively vibe, depicting the simplicity and innocence of small towns. The short film directed by him, Quarantine Crush, which is part of the recently released Netflix anthology Feels Like Ishq, packs up as it tells the story of a teenage crush and friendship. pandemic epidemic. Music lover Maninder (Mihir Ahuja) tells some innocent lies to befriend Nimi (Kajol Chugh), who is in self-quarantine next door.
This is the third short film directed by Kashyap Khurrana after Toffee (2018), which is about a friendship between two girls, irrespective of their class divide, and Pinni (2020), which explores the loneliness of a housewife . The script for both these films has also been written by the 38-year-old, who has written four books, including the 12 Commandments of Being a Woman and the 7 Sins of Being a Mother.
During this interview, Tahira Kashyap Khurrana tells us about the process of making a film in the backdrop of the pandemic, her writing ritual and why hope will always be a part of her work. Part:
Did the story of the quarantine crush develop while you were there? Chandigarh?
When everything was closed during the pandemic, we went to Chandigarh with our parents. It was around this time that I wrote my book, The 12 Commandments of Being a Woman. The story of Quarantine Crush is written by Ghazal (Dhaliwal). When we were in Chandigarh, we took full advantage of it – developing the script and adding some nuances to it. We shot for three days. Earlier we had done a lot of preparation online. It was a new way of filmmaking for all of us at that time. We were a bit nervous but the process went really well.
Did you aim to capture the charm and ways of small towns in India through the film?
I am very attached to my roots and the kind of childhood I lived in Chandigarh and the world I lived in. It reflects a lot in the stories I write and the films I make. Given an opportunity, I want others to see the world I grew up in. I see a lot of happiness and love in that environment. Quarantine Crush shows a quota of the same.
What was the process of working with writer Ghazal Dhaliwal?
This is the first time I collaborated with anyone and it was lovely. Art is personal. Maybe the other person doesn’t like what I like. Here we had two strong minded people coming together for a project. We jammed and we argued. The result was that after a few days of debate, we were on the same page. It is a process and it is important for everyone’s development. Now I am ready to cooperate.
Did the experience of making a short film earlier make it easier this time?
I have made two short films earlier, Toffee and Pinni. This is my third short film. I like this format. It is very easily consumable. Plus, it’s challenging to make sure it hits home. You have less time to build engagement (with the audience).
Is there a story behind how you play a lingerie salesman who takes his business home?
This is something that I have suggested. The script I found did not outline Maninder’s father’s profession. I wanted her to have a bra shop. The man is very honest about his work. I gave the idea but it is Ghazal and the team that developed the character and added the details.
A still of Quarantine Crush, a short film that is part of the Netflix anthology Feel Like Ishq.
How was the experience of working with the young actors, Kajol Chugh and Mihir Ahuja?
I wanted to work with new people. This story was about innocence. So, this was a chance to work with new talent. My definition of love is different – Nimi isn’t just a pretty skinny girl with pretty teeth. Maninder wears a turban. I wanted to be true to his characters. I wanted to normalize that love can happen between two regular people.
The film ends with an optimistic note about the vaccine.
There is always ‘hope’ in my every project – be it a book or a film. It resonates with me on a deep level.
Do you follow a writing routine?
My writing ritual has gone for a toss. When I know I have a deadline, I get into a writing shell. For example, if I am sitting at the dinner table, I keep writing there and no one is allowed to sit there. I usually have these frantic paces where I write for weeks and months in a row. Writing every day is probably a better idea.
What’s the news about the feature film you wanted to direct?
I will share news about it very soon.
You have tried your hand at many things. Have you found your calling in filmmaking?
I also think so. I love photography, painting and telling stories. Everything is moving where I want it to be and helps keep the pieces of the puzzle together. I am happy that I have found my calling (in filmmaking) and I am working towards that.
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