Alia found idea of ‘Naamkarann’ fascinating: Mahesh Bhatt

Mumbai Aug 21 (PTI) Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt says hisactress daughter Alia has liked the idea of his upcomingtelevision show "Naamkarann", which centres around socialidentity of a girl. Bhatt is set to start his television innings with thefiction show, which he has created. It explores the journey of a 10-year-old girl, namedAvni, a curious but perceptive girl who will raise pertinentquestions, which challenges societal norms. "I asked Alia how would she react to a small girl whocomes up to her and asks why is her identity attached to herfather in today’s times. To which, Alia raised her eyebrowsand she said it is fascinating. She liked it. We are happyabout it," Bhatt told PTI. According to the director, "Namkarann" compels one toreflect upon a social truth that identity of a girl is alwayslinked to that of a man, first her father and then herhusband. "My romance with television is age old. This is my firstmajor plunge in television and I am pleased it is happeningwith Star Plus as their penetration is phenomenal. The showwill be through the eyes of 10 year-old-girl who asks anelemental question about her why identity. Why can’t she beherself without attaching a surname." The National Award-winner feels even though women havebuilt inroads across all walks of life, their identity isstill linked to someone else. "She (show’s protagonist) asks repeatedly why don’t wepractice what we preach. It’s a saga with multiple charactersand conflicts that happen in our homes. ‘Naamkarann’ has beenan exhilarating experience," he said. There were reports that the show is partially inspiredby Bhatt’s own film "Zakhm" which had Ajay Devgn and PoojaBhatt in the lead. When asked about it, he says, "It is incorrect to say’Naamkarann’ is autobiographical. Like all writers who takeinspiration from their own lives, the show uses my ownpersonal narrative but it tells a much larger story." "This country is too large and complex to be able toexpress things through one life. Some of the characters aretaken from someone’s life." The show features Arsheen Naamdar as Avni, a discoveryof Bhatt. Actress Barkha Bisht returns to TV in a role of amother. It will go on air on Star Plus next month. PTI KKP ARSPSHSDM