“There Is No One Like Kaka Ji” — Director Siddharth Nagar on ‘Pratibaddh’, Rajesh Khanna, and a Journey of Commitment
— Interview by Kali Das Pandey
Director, writer, and producer Siddharth Nagar has once again become a talking point in Bollywood after being signed as Writer–Director for the upcoming TV series ‘Pratibaddh’, being produced under the banner of Sarthak Chitram for Prasar Bharati’s OTT channel ‘Waves’.
After the initial shooting schedule in Lucknow, filming is now underway at various locations in Mumbai including Sai Kutir, Pushpa Bungalow, SJ Studio, Film City, and Chandivali Studio. Siddharth Nagar has previously written and directed acclaimed television serials such as ‘Koi Toh Ho’, ‘Ardhanarishwar’, and ‘Saab Ji’, and is also known for directing the much-talked-about Rajesh Khanna starrer ‘Raghukul Reet Sada Chali Aayi’. Over the years, he has produced and directed more than 3,000 hours of programming for Doordarshan and its associate channels.
Currently deeply engrossed and visibly excited about Pratibaddh, Siddharth Nagar spoke to me on the sets at SJ Studio, Saki Naka, Andheri (East), Mumbai. Here are the key excerpts from our conversation:
What makes the TV series ‘Pratibaddh’ special?
“The most special aspect of Pratibaddh is that actor Abhinav Chaturvedi — known for his memorable roles in the iconic serials Hum Log and Buniyaad — is returning to acting after almost 35 years. He has a very powerful and impactful role in this series.”
Tell us something about the cast and creative team.
“Along with Abhinav Chaturvedi, the cast includes Aayub Khan, Raju Kher, Avinash Sajwaney, Yash Singh, Akshma, Aastha Chaudhary, Brijendra Kala, Kishori Shahane, Shweta Rastogi, Damini Dave, Deepti Mishra, Akshita Arora, and Preeti Kochar.
Renowned Lucknow-based actor Dr. Anita Sehgal will also be seen in a significant role.
The co-producers are Akash Vashishth and Dinesh Sehgal; cinematography is by Mukesh Sharma, editing by Mahendra Kumar, creative supervision by Archana Sekia, production headed by Praveen Sorte, and art direction by Mahendra Raut.”
Your serial ‘Raghukul Reet Sada Chali Aayi’ is remembered as Rajesh Khanna’s most iconic TV work. What was your experience working with Kaka Ji?
“Initially, Kaka Ji was not willing to do the serial. But once he heard the complete story, he was deeply moved and agreed to work — even with new artists.
Working with him taught me so much. Being in his presence felt like a blessing — I truly gained a lot from him.
After completing 100 episodes, we were planning another serial together, but unfortunately, his passing on 18 July 2012 stopped that dream forever. I consider it my misfortune that I could not work with him again.
The legacy he created — the way he defined success, popularity, and superstardom — cannot be expressed in words. He was deeply emotional and always stood by people in their difficult times. I have witnessed this very closely.
I can only say one thing — there was, and will never be, anyone like Kaka Ji.”
When can audiences expect to watch ‘Pratibaddh’?
“The production work is nearing completion, and the series will be reaching viewers very soon.”
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