Director Aanand L Rai points out similarities between his next film ‘Tere Ishq Mein’ and ‘Raanjhanaa’ and says Dhanush has grown up and is even better now

Aanand L Rai is a prominent Indian film director known for his unique storytelling style and ability to blend romance with deep emotional themes. Some of his famous films include Tanu Weds Manu, Zero, Atrangi Re, RajnathThe film showcased his talent for creating relatable characters and compelling stories.

Her 2013 film Raanjhanaa was her notable Bollywood debut. Dhanush received widespread acclaim for his performance as Kundan, a lovesick young man trying to navigate the complexities of unrequited love.

Aanand L Rai’s latest directorial work Tere Ishq Mein According to a report from News18, filming is scheduled to begin in October 2024. The female lead has yet to be officially announced, but actresses Tripti Dimri and Kriti SanonThe film marks Dhanush’s return to Hindi cinema after Atrangi Re, also directed by Rai.

In an interview with News18, the ‘Zero’ director spoke about ‘Tere Ishq Mein’ and emphasised the film’s relevance to the world of ‘Raanjhanaa’. The director expressed his curiosity to explore tragedy in stories and said that after the success of ‘Tanu Weds Manu’, he is keen to delve into stories centred around love and loss. Reflecting on his growth as a filmmaker over the past 12 years, Rai stated that ‘Raanjhanaa’ was a defining moment in his career.

Rai clarified that Tere Ishq Main aims to rethink the sensibility established in Raanjhanaa. He described the feelings of anger, aggression and passionate love present in both films and suggested that they belong to the same world. He said that the essence of Raanjhanaa is present in Tere Ishq Main, which will resonate with audiences who are aware of his earlier works. “The anger, aggression and passionate love present in Raanjhanaa is also evident in Tere Ishq Main. That’s why I feel Tere Ishq Main comes from the world of Raanjhanaa.”

While talking about Dhanush’s involvement in the project, Rai acknowledged the actor’s evolution over the years. He expressed confidence in Dhanush’s abilities and said that while there may be thematic similarities, the actor would approach the character with a fresh perspective. “Having worked together for so many years, I know Dhanush has grown. He was a great actor then but he is even better now as an actor, writer and director. He has grown more confident. Even if he were to take on a similar story, he would approach it differently.”

Rai is aware of the challenges ahead, especially in appealing to younger audiences. He said Tere Ishq Mein has been made with Gen Z in mind and aims to give a love story that will resonate with modern audiences. He stressed that the project is personal for him as he is trying to tell a new story with a unique approach and innovative storytelling techniques. “This time, we are speaking to Gen Z and giving them a love story that will resonate with them.”

The “Atrangi Re” director says he is excited to return to the themes of love and tragedy and wants to explore human relationships from a different angle. While he will be revisiting familiar territory, the director recognizes that the story will be fresh and engaging for both new and returning fans of his work.