Fitoor turns 7: Abhishek Kapoor remembers Tabu’s last-minute entry into the film

Filmmaker Abhishek Kapoor, who is quite occupied with the preparation for his new directorial venture, takes a moment to reminisce about the making of Fitoor - starring Aditya Roy Kapur, Katrina Kaif and Tabu - as the movie completes seven years.

Based on Charles Dickens’ 1861 novel Great Expectations, the film was directed by Abhishek, and it released on February 12, 2016. While Katrina played the character of Firdaus, Aditya was seen as artist Noor in the film, and Tabu essayed the soul of the narrative, as Begum Hazrat Jaan Mahal.

Recalling the casting of Tabu in the film, Abhishek said, “I cannot forget how Tabu stepped in at the last minute. She took up such a complex role, and effortlessly excelled it while holding my hand when I needed her most.”

He also gave credit to the other actors of the film. “We started out telling a timeless story and ended up with a gem, Thanks to the immensely talented craftsmen and actors like Tabu, Katrina and Aditya,” the filmmaker added. 

The film was extensively shot in Kashmir and, according to the filmmaker, he intended to create a beautiful world justifying the natural beauty and the culture of the valley. “We wanted the film and its music to transport the audience into a surreal world where time stood still,” Abhishek said.

Penned by Swanand Kirkire and composed by Amit Trivedi, Fitoor’s music still holds a strong recall value. “The music of the film continues to be appreciated, and that is thanks to Amit Trivedi and Swanand Kirkire, both magicians of their craft. Fitoor is a film I will always be proud of and I am eternally grateful for the love it continues to garner from audiences around the world.”

Currently, Abhishek is exploring various locations in Madhya Pradesh for his upcoming film, in which he will be launching Aaman Devgan and Raveena Tandon’s daughter Rasha Thadani. The film also stars Ajay Devgn in a pivotal role.