'Raanjhana' director Aanand L Rai on film school recruitment drive

A still from Tanu Weds Manu 2 and Raanjhana

In an industry notorious for nepotism, filmmaker Aanand L Rai's production house is set to make a novel move. The Raanjhana and Tanu Weds Manu director, along with his team, is in talks with film schools in metros to recruit fresh talent, especially writers.

Tanupriya from Rai's Colour Yellow Productions says, "We recently initiated discussions with film schools. Primarily, we are trying to get writing talent, considering the demand for fresh content. Eventually, whoever wants to get first-hand knowledge of filmmaking can hop on board. There are many who will go on a winter break. So, this [first round of recruitments] should materialise by March. Currently, we are focusing only on metros."

Aanand L Rai

With this, she adds, the focus could move from Rai's quintessential heartland stories: "Usually, his scripts demand so. But, if a story requires a metro set-up, we will go for it."

The production house has Nimmo, helmed by Rakul Shanklya, as its next offering. Navdeep Singh of Anushka Sharma-starrer NH10 fame is also directing a project under the Colour Yellow banner.

"But, we aren't looking at signing deals or keeping someone bound to us. So, we aren't stressing on signing anyone for two-three films as of now. Aanand sir is a hands-off producer. He trusts people with movies and is willing to mentor anyone who seeks his guidance," Tanupriya says.

Rai, however, wants to create a safe haven in the industry where talent wins. He says, "Our funda is simple - talent wins games, but teamwork wins championships. We are looking at building such a team here."