Veteran director David Dhawan recently spoke about how comedy has evolved in Indian cinema over the years, admitting that filmmakers today have to be more careful about how they portray female characters on screen.
The director, who is known for introducing some of the biggest entertainers in Bollywood, shared his thoughts ahead of the release of his upcoming film ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’, starring Varun Dhawan.The film is expected to be David Dhawan’s final directorial venture, with reports suggesting that the director may step away from directing after its release on June 5.
David Dhawan talks about changing the rules in comedies
Over the decades, David Dhawan has built a strong reputation with hit comedies like ‘Judwaa’, ‘Coolie No. 1’, ‘Partner’ and ‘Raja Babu’. Many of these films featured stars like Govinda and Salman Khan in lead roles and became very popular among family audiences.During a recent interaction organized by a popular theater chain after the trailer launch of ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’, David Dhawan and Varun Dhawan discussed the film industry, comedy and the current entertainment landscape, reported News 18.Speaking about modern-day censorship and audience sensitivity, David said: “You can’t degrade women in films today. If you do, the censor board will hand you a long list of restrictions.
So, I was a bit cautious and sensitive with female characters, whereas with men, I could still do anything on screen.His statement quickly caught attention online, with many social media users discussing how comedy in Bollywood has changed over the years.Reflecting on his long journey in filmmaking, David Dhawan admitted that even though age and health have slowed him down physically, his passion for cinema remains intact.
“You get tired, but you never get tired of making films. I have made a lot of films and I can still make four more, but sometimes health has to be prioritized, and you also need time for family,” the director said.Over the course of a career spanning nearly four decades, David Dhawan has directed 45 films and established himself as one of the most commercially successful directors in Indian cinema.
Karan Johar Pays tribute to David Dhawan’s contribution to Bollywood
Amid reports of David Dhawan retiring from filmmaking, director Karan Johar also shared an emotional message appreciating the veteran director’s contribution to Bollywood.
Praising his body of work, Karan reportedly wrote, “David has given Indian cinema some of its most entertaining films. His understanding of comedy and family audiences is truly unparalleled.”
David Dhawan’s legacy is built on iconic comedians
David Dhawan’s films include many popular artists like ‘Biwi No.1’, ‘Hero No.1’, ‘Partner’ and ‘Mujhse Shaadi Karogi’. His films have become widely beloved for their comedic timing, memorable music, colorful storytelling, and mass appeal. As speculation about his retirement continued, fans flooded social media with nostalgic posts, calling him the “King of Comedians” and thanking him for producing films that have become an important part of family movie nights for an entire generation.Although David Dhawan is yet to officially confirm his retirement plans, the reports have already sparked emotional reactions across the film industry and among cinephiles.