Suresh Triveni Discusses the Buzz Surrounding His Film 'Maa Behen'
Acclaimed filmmaker Suresh Triveni is relishing the discussions sparked by his latest Netflix release, 'Maa Behen.' The film, featuring Madhuri Dixit and Tripti Dimri, has impressively secured the second spot on Netflix's Global Top 10 Non-English Films, trending across 15 nations. Initially, Triveni questioned whether the algorithm was skewed in favor of his film, but he soon recognized the genuine excitement surrounding this dark comedy.
Creating a satire is no small feat, Triveni acknowledges, as there's a risk of audiences misinterpreting the humor. Together with co-writer Pooja Tolani, they aimed to ensure that their message resonated without sounding trivial. He emphasizes that every element in the film was meticulously considered, stating, “There isn’t a single thing that the team didn’t think it through.” The title itself, which evokes both laughter and thought, was a product of his creative process, beginning with a scene where a mother calls her daughters late at night. He is delighted that viewers have grasped the deeper meanings behind the title and various subtle details. While he can't definitively say if audiences have become more discerning, he believes they now possess a clearer understanding of their preferences.
With 'Maa Behen,' Triveni aimed for maximum reach. He reflects that a theatrical release might have been more beneficial, especially in the current post-Covid landscape where the future of cinema halls remains uncertain. He notes, “If I would have made Tumhari Sulu today, I would have struggled to release it theatrically.” His goal was to present 'Maa Behen' on a grand scale, and with Madhuri Dixit in the cast, he achieved that ambition. He had always envisioned her for the role of Rekha, despite hearing that she might decline a motherly role. He thought, “If it has to be a no, it better come from the Madhuri Dixit.” To his delight, she accepted the role, making casting other actors, like Ravi Kishan, much simpler.