Bollywood Director Manish R. Khandelwal shares his Journey and Experiences about his show Ssshhhh Koi Hai and appreciates actor Mamik as Vikraal

Renowned Bollywood director Manish R. Khandelwal recently had an in-depth conversation with Auromax Digital, where he shared insights from his illustrious career in the film and television industry. With a career spanning over two decades, Manish has contributed to various genres, from daily soaps to thrillers and mythological dramas, cementing his place in the industry as a versatile and visionary filmmaker.

Manish's portfolio is vast, comprising popular shows and series across major television channels. His work includes thriller shows such as Ssshhhh Koi Hai, Achanak 37 Saal Baad, and Raaz The Thriller, which captivated audiences with suspenseful storytelling and engaging plots. Reflecting on his time with Ssshhhh Koi Hai, he expressed admiration for Mamik Singh, who led the show as the character Vikraal. Manish praised Mamik’s dedication and his ability to deliver outstanding performances. "If you leave him at his 'me' time," Manish shared, "he would work hours and hours, giving us great shots." This trait, coupled with Mamik’s skillful portrayal, made him a remarkable actor who brought depth to his roles.

Manish highlighted that one of his core strengths is his commitment to storytelling, particularly in genres like horror and thrillers, where he brings a unique narrative flair. His ability to craft suspenseful and haunting scenes resonates deeply with audiences, keeping them engaged and intrigued. He believes that a director’s role is not only to narrate a story but also to guide actors to bring out their best, making each character memorable. This approach has undoubtedly contributed to the success of his shows, particularly Ssshhhh Koi Hai, which became iconic for its portrayal of supernatural events and thrilling encounters.

Throughout his career, Manish has worked with many celebrated actors and directors. His experience as Chief Assistant Director on films such as Jaanam and Madhosh, directed by Vikram Bhatt, gave him a strong foundation in filmmaking. These experiences enabled him to understand the nuances of direction and the technical aspects of filmmaking, which he has since applied to his own projects.

Manish’s journey is also marked by his work in editing and sound effects, showing his holistic understanding of filmmaking. His role as a video editor on Philips Top Ten and X-Zone on Zee TV added depth to his skills, allowing him to understand how crucial post-production is to the storytelling process. In addition, his early experiences in sound effects on films like Agneepath, Hum, and 1942 A Love Story underlined the importance of creating the right audio environment to complement the visuals, an aspect he still prioritizes in his work.

Aside from thrillers, Manish has directed an array of popular daily soaps, including Baa Bahu Aur Baby, Utraan, and Betiyaan, where he showcased his adaptability to diverse genres. His involvement in such a variety of television content reveals his versatility and capability to connect with audiences across genres. This adaptability has been key to his longevity and success in the industry, where he seamlessly transitions between drama, thriller, and mythological genres.

In addition to his television work, Manish has also ventured into filmmaking with short films that have earned him recognition. His Marathi short film Anniversary won Best Short Film at the Nashik Film Festival in 2014, and Puncturewala was awarded Best Short Film at the Jamshedpur Film Festival in 2015. These accolades reflect his commitment to exploring unique storylines and social themes, highlighting his creativity and willingness to take risks in independent cinema. He attributes his success to his collaborative approach and dedication to bringing out the best in his cast and crew. His words of appreciation for Mamik Singh, for instance, highlight the importance he places on actors’ performances and how these contributions shape the narrative.

As he looks forward to future projects, Manish remains dedicated to his craft, constantly exploring new techniques and genres. His conversation with Auromax Digital offered a glimpse into the mind of a filmmaker who values quality and storytelling above all. For Manish, filmmaking is not just a profession but a passion that drives him to innovate and entertain. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, reminding them that success in the industry requires dedication, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to one’s vision.

In the end, Manish R. Khandelwal's experiences and reflections underline the essence of Bollywood's vibrant industry, where each story, character, and scene is crafted with heart and precision. Through his work, Manish continues to contribute to Indian television and cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and inspiring future generations of filmmakers.