Behind the lens: Ravi K Chandran on the turning point of his career

When *Dil Chahta Hai* celebrated 25 years in theatres, its director of photography, Ravi K. Chandran, used the moment to look back at a pivotal moment in his professional life.

The DOP confessed that the project introduced him to sync‑sound recording, a new gaffer‑grip system, and a collaborative workflow that differed from the conventional Bollywood set‑ups of the late 1990s. "It was a learning curve that reshaped how I approached lighting and composition," Chandran said.

He emphasized how the film’s visual style—soft, natural tones mixed with vibrant splashes during song sequences—was a deliberate departure from the over‑processed look that dominated the era. This experimental approach earned the movie critical praise and later, a devoted fan base.

Chandran also highlighted the trust placed in him by debut director Farhan Akhtar, who gave the young cinematographer full creative freedom. The partnership, supported by producer Ritesh Sidhwani and Excel Entertainment, allowed Chandran to push boundaries and establish a reputation that would lead to high‑profile projects across India and Hollywood.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Chandran said the film remains a benchmark for him, reminding him of a time when risk‑taking paid off and opened doors to a global career.