While the nation continues to wait for its first competitive Oscar win in a major category, casting director Mukesh Chhabra believes the answer lies close to home—and it’s not the usual suspects like SS Rajamouli or Kiran Rao. In a recent interview, Chhabra named the one Bollywood filmmaker he’s confident has the storytelling brilliance, emotional depth, and global appeal to finally bring India the coveted Academy Award.
The One Name That Stands Out
In a recent chat with Faridoon Shahryar, Mukesh revealed the one director he feels has the ideal mix of emotional depth, cinematic craft, and global appeal to end India’s Oscar dry spell and bring home the coveted trophy.
When asked to name a Bollywood director he believes could win an Oscar for India, he didn’t hesitate. He confidently named Rajkumar Hirani, saying that if anyone in the country has the vision and storytelling power to bring home the Academy Award, it’s “Raju Sir.”
A Director Who’s Also a Film School
In an earlier interview with The Indian Express, Chhabra had praised Rajkumar Hirani as a complete film school in himself. Having worked with him on PK, Sanju, and several ad projects, Chhabra shared that Hirani’s process is deeply immersive—he lives and breathes cinema. According to him, casting for Hirani isn’t a quick task; it often stretches over two years, reflecting the director’s unwavering commitment to every detail.
A Storyteller with Universal Appeal
Hirani stands among India’s most acclaimed filmmakers, celebrated for his unique ability to weave heart, humour, and social insight into mainstream storytelling. With a stellar filmography that includes Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., Lage Raho Munna Bhai, 3 Idiots, PK, Sanju, and Dunki, Hirani has consistently delivered narratives that strike a chord with Indian audiences while also resonating with global viewers.
