Shatrughan Sinha says ‘Kathakar’ recalls college days

Veteran actor and politician Shatrughan Sinha recently spoke about his strong emotional connection to Kathakar Ki Diary, a film directed by IRS officer Anwesh. The movie, he said, took him back to his college days at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), where he developed a deep love for cinema.

Sinha compared the film’s storytelling to that of legendary directors Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen, praising its thoughtful narrative and artistic style. Watching this film reminded me of the meaningful, realistic cinema we grew up admiring at FTII, he said. Despite being made on a small budget, it feels truly international in quality.

The senior actor emphasized how each character felt authentic, and the director’s passion for cinema was clear in every frame. He applauded Anwesh for creating such a powerful film with limited resources.

A special screening of Kathakar Ki Diary was recently held in Juhu, Mumbai, attended by Sinha and his wife Poonam Sinha, along with other notable figures like directors Sejal Shah and Sai Kabir, producer Krishika Lulla, and trans rights activists Rekha Rao and Gauri Sawant.

Director Sejal Shah described the film as unique and powerful, while Sai Kabir called it a well-made project. Gauri Sawant praised it as meaningful cinema.

The film stars Kapil Bhagwat, Yogesh Jadhav, Aarohi Chatterjee, and Daniel, and was edited by national award-winner Aseem Sinha, known for his work with Shyam Benegal.