Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, the mastermind behind Bollywood exposés such as Page 3 and Fashion, made his ritualistic pilgrimage to Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple. The director, a devout follower of Lord Ganesha, used the occasion to update fans on his next big venture.
With a career spanning decades of gritty realism, Bhandarkar doesn’t shy away from his faith. ‘For 32 years, I’ve made this journey, sometimes on foot from Khar. Film releases, promotions—Bappa’s darshan is non-negotiable. He’s the reason for all my achievements,’ Bhandarkar told reporters post-prayers.
Fresh off completing principal photography on The Wives, Bhandarkar attributed the timely wrap-up to divine intervention. He prayed for national prosperity and his supporters’ success, reinforcing his deep-rooted spirituality.
Anticipation for The Wives has been simmering since its poster release last year—a mysterious image of three veiled, stylish women hinting at Bollywood’s hidden power players. The narrative spotlights the formidable wives of top stars, exploring how they wield influence behind the cameras.
Bhandarkar’s signature style of unveiling industry secrets shines through once more. Much like his National Award-winning films that demystified Page 3 journalism and the fashion circuit, The Wives aims to humanize these overlooked women. It draws parallels to streaming hits that peeked into celebrity spouses’ lives, but promises a deeper, more cinematic probe.
As Mumbai’s faithful flock to Siddhivinayak daily, Bhandarkar’s visit reminds us of the blend of devotion and determination fueling Bollywood’s bold voices.