Are the characters of Zaffar and Nikhat inspired by Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman?
At a time when Guru Dutt and Waheedabai worked, my characters were also there in the industry. There’s even a shot in KKC where you think it’s Guru Dutt passing by in a frame, and if KKC is dedicated to anyone, it’s him. I love Guru Dutt and his rhythm. But I am not making a peep show into his life.

What made you cast Soha Ali Khan in a complex lead when she is yet to make her mark as a leading lady in any Hindi film? Wasn’t Vidya Balan the original choice?
Though Vidya was first considered for the role, by the time the final script was ready, we realised that we couldn’t have her play an 18-year-old as the film begins with Nikhat in her late teens. Soha seemed the perfect choice and it’s wonderful that we stuck to her. She grabbed the role with both hands and prepared for three months. KKC can be called her re-debut. She plays a teen struggling actress peddled into the film world by her mother, who becomes a superstar and then goes downhill due to alcoholism before finally bouncing back in the end. I am not sure if there is anything called number one or two in the industry today, but Soha is as good as the best. After this film, you will have in her an actress who can essay any role.

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