Indian writer Sumit Arora has recently worked on two sports films directed by Kabir Khan, one being 83 about the victory of the Indian cricket team during the 1983 World Cup, and the other being Chandu Champion starring Kartik Aaryan, depicting the real-life story of Indian para-athlete Murlikant Petkar. In an exclusive interview, Arora shares insights into his collaborations with Khan, working on Jawan, and persevering in the industry before his breakthrough with Stree in 2018.
Recalling his initial interaction with Kabir Khan, Arora shares that Khan approached him after watching Stree and offered him the opportunity to write 83. Initially thinking it was merely a polite gesture, Arora was surprised when Khan followed through and they started working together. Their bond strengthened while waiting for the release of 83, leading them to collaborate on the story of Murlikant Petkar for Chandu Champion, showcasing a small-town boy’s journey towards achieving his dreams.
While Arora has primarily worked on fictional narratives in the past like Stree, Jawan, The Family Man, and Dahaad, his collaborations with Kabir Khan involved dramatizing real incidents. Reflecting on the differences between fictional and realistic narratives, Arora emphasizes the importance of respecting the boundaries present in true stories while allowing room for creative interpretation. He believes that storytelling should honor the real events and individuals being portrayed.
Stree marked a significant turning point in Arora’s career, catapulting him into the spotlight and leading to subsequent projects like The Family Man and Jawan. He credits Stree for showcasing his abilities and opening doors for other opportunities in the film industry. Collaborating with director Atlee on Jawan provided Arora with valuable insights into mass cinema, describing it as a transformative experience akin to attending a school dedicated to popular entertainment.
In addition to his work with Kabir Khan, Sumit Arora has collaborated with acclaimed filmmakers Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti on the crime thriller web series, Dahaad. Appreciating their dedication to refining the written material before production, Arora enjoyed the creative process of infusing the thriller with a subtle touch of humor. His experience with these accomplished filmmakers further honed his skills and understanding of crafting compelling narratives.
Before his breakthrough in Bollywood with Stree, Sumit Arora spent nearly a decade working on various TV shows and films. His journey in the industry involved writing for popular shows like Bhaskar Bharti and Dill Mill Gayye, as well as contributing to films such as All Is Well. Arora explains how his background in television taught him valuable skills in discipline and quick problem-solving, which have proven beneficial in his current work on films. Despite facing challenges early in his career, Arora’s persistence, work ethic, and belief in his abilities have ultimately led to his success in the industry.
