Rajiv Rai Discusses His Comeback with ‘Zora’ and ‘Zoravar’

After a 21-year hiatus, Rajiv Rai is back in the filmmaking arena. He took on multiple roles for the film ‘Zora,’ including writing the story and screenplay, editing, directing, and producing. He is also handling distribution, a first for him, much like his father, the legendary Gulshan Rai. With no advertising budget, the film is aimed at a small audience, a deliberate choice. ‘Zoravar,’ the companion film, is also ready for release. The decision to create two interconnected films, ‘Zora’ and ‘Zoravar,’ stems from a desire to approach filmmaking with a fresh perspective, reminiscent of his earlier days. He embraced a significantly reduced budget to test his creative abilities, aiming to create a compelling visual experience despite financial constraints. He collaborated with Rashid Rangrez and prioritized using basic equipment. The film’s production involved a limited crew and a cast with modest remuneration. ‘Zora’ is a suspenseful murder mystery, and he aimed to set an example for the industry, advocating for new talent and smaller budgets. He embraced the challenges of low-budget filmmaking, which included staying in modest accommodations and foregoing luxuries like vanity vans. The film features a unique approach, different from his previous work, and he’s taking a risk. He believes the industry needs to reduce costs, a plan he initiated in 2018. He emphasizes that established filmmakers can continue with their vision, but for many others, a budget-conscious approach is essential. He plans to continue this approach regardless of ‘Zora’s’ success.