‘We are always ready to party’

An associate director for popular Hollywood flicks such as Skyfall, Ghost Rider 2, The Amazing Spider Man, Fast and Furious 7 & 8, Josan Sandeep’s vision has always been larger than life. The talented director, who graduated from the New York Film Academy, speaks about the idea of making a biopic on singer Kuldeep Manak and what makes him a true blue Punjabi.

Was making movies your childhood passion?

When I was in my Middle School, I realised God was the One who could do everything. I started doing my research and then I realised director came after God, who could imagine anything and create everything through movies.

You are coming up with a biopic on legendary singer Kuldeep Manak. Tell us about your project.

Kuldeep Manak always talked about the values of relationship and Punjabi culture through his songs. It is truly an honour to work on this masterpiece. We have already shot about 30 per cent of the movie and we will start the next schedule pretty soon. I’m thankful to Pollywood because they are supporting and standing with us.

You are a director with the Midas touch. How many videos have you directed and which one is your favourite?

I have done more than 15 videos with Bollywood and Pollywood singers. Honestly, all are my favourite. Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Zindagi, Rajvir Jawanda’s Hello Hello, Shivjot’s Teri Meri Tutju, Anmol Gagan Maan’s Yaarmaar and Overspeed, Sajjan Adeeb’s Gal Dohan Vich and Rupinder Handa’s Stay Away to name a few.

Sitting at home, what have you learnt from this lockdown?

I utilised this time for self-assessment. I have learnt that happiness lies within us and family is everything.

What new things did you learn during this time?

I tried to accomplish some of my dreams. I learnt to cook good food. I also tried writing.

OTT platform saw a major spike during this lockdown. Do you think OTT is the future?

Yes, OTT platforms are establishing a new path for e-business and for sure they are giving a huge platform to talented people.

Would you like to direct a web series?

Yes, we are designing few web series project.

What changes do you see in yourself post Covid-19 ?

I think I am a calm person now. I made memories with my family and of course, I got some time to assess myself.

Punjab has a rich culture. What do you say?

Punjab has the richest culture in this world. It has a special aura, which attracts people at once. And we Punjabis are big-hearted people, always ready to help and always ready to party.

When was the last time you performed Bhangra?

I used to do Bhangra when I was in High School.

Punjabi dishes are globally famous. Name some of your favourites?

I always feel hungry when it comes to Punjabi dishes like tandoori naan, dal makhni, butter chicken and my all-time favourite dessert kheer.

Which Punjabi film is close to your heart?

Waris Shah: Ishq Daa Waaris

Favorite Punjabi song?

Maa Hundi Ae Maa… sung by Kuldeep Manak is my favourite.

Which are the places you like to visit in Punjab?

First one will be the Golden Temple, Amritsar, second will be Patiala and third will be Chandigarh.

Are you staying in touch with your fans as well?

Yes, I am active on my Instagram and Facebook

Is there any Bollywood project in the pipeline?

Yes, we are working on a few, specially a film on S. Hari Singh Nalwa. We have been working on it since last few years. We already have a Hollywood crew on board.

—Dharam Pal