Script-writer Naresh Kathooria talks about his journey so far

A script plays an important role in the success of a film. One writer, who has penned many successful Punjabi films is Giddarbaha-born Naresh Kathooria. The talented screenwriter talks to us about his scripts and his plans for 2021….

You started your career as a theatre actor. Did you always want to be a part of Punjabi film industry?

After exploring my acting skills on stage, I wanted to be a screenwriter. Pollywood at that time was not as developed an industry as it is today. I did some TV shows like Comedy Circus. I have penned super-hit films Carry On Jatta and Chak De Phatte. Now I feel comfortable working in the Punjabi film industry.

Your filmography exhibits a mixed bag of films – comedy as well as social drama. Which genre do you like and which one is your best film so far?

I am enjoying giving my best, no matter which genre it is.

Does the director of a film also matter when you take up a project?

Of course it does. The director is an important key to a project.

How has your journey in the industry been?

I have had a fantastic journey, every script I wrote, gave a big boost to my career.

What is the driving force that keeps you going when you write a film?

Hard work. It helps me to give my 100 per cent.

Do you write stories while keeping actors in mind?

I write the script with people in mind, the people I have met and the people I have seen.

How important is appreciation for you?

Appreciation is very important, especially from the industry and audiences since this is how you know that your work is worthwhile and your efforts have paid off.

What is the most important thing that you would not compromise with while writing a script?

The script. The compromise there is a compromise all the way.

Is it tough to be in the showbiz?

Yes, it is very tough. You have to work hard to make your space in the industry.

Being a Punjabi, How important is Pollywood to you?

Yes, Pollywood is important to me because after Carry On Jatta I got many offers from Bollywood but I preferred Punjabi film industry.

What has been your biggest learning from Pollywood?

I have learnt to work with sincerity with my production team.

Who are your friends from the Punjabi film industry?

Smeep Kang, Kshitij Chaudhary, Gippy Grewal, Binnu Dhillon, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Jaswinder Bhalla, Karamjit Anmol and Kenny Chhabra are my friends and brothers.

You are already a known name in the industry. What more do you want from life?

I am satisfied with the way my career has shaped up.

What are your upcoming projects?

Paani Ch Madhani and Jinne Jamme Saare Nikamme are my upcoming projects.

— Dharam Pal