‘He inspired me to direct’ – Film director Vidhu Vinod Chopra speaks about Rajkumar Hirani’s role in shaping up ’12th Fail’

Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, director of the acclaimed film “12th Fail,” recently praised Rajkumar Hirani. He has revealed that the inspiration for adapting Manoj Sharma’s book, “Twelfth Fail,” into a cinematic masterpiece came from none other than Hirani. According to a statement by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Rajkumar Hirani not only suggested the book’s potential for a film but also recommended the talented Vikrant Massey for the lead role.

In a recent event celebrating the film’s 100-day milestone, Vidhu Vinod Chopra shared insights into the project’s inception. He revealed that Manoj Sharma approached him with the book and sought his endorsement. Pleased with the recommendation from Rajkumar Hirani and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, Chopra explored the idea of transforming the book into a film. However, given Hirani’s busy schedule, Vidhu took the directorial reins himself.

“Manoj Sharma (on whom the film is based) came to me with the book (Twelfth Fail) and requested a blurb in the book. I saw book ke peeche (backside) by Raju Hirani and Sachin Tendulkar ne taarif ki hai (praised it),” he said.

How did Vidhu Vinod Chopra pick Vikrant Massey?

Reflecting on the casting choice, Vidhu Vinod Chopra expressed how Vikrant Massey’s stellar performance in “A Death in the Gunj” had caught his eye. He credited Rajkumar Hirani for suggesting Vikrant’s name, emphasising how the actor inspired him to take on the directorial role.

“12th Fail” portrays the remarkable journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcame extreme poverty to achieve the esteemed position of an IPS officer. The film sheds light on his struggles and success, with a focus on the pivotal role played by his wife, IRS officer Shraddha Joshi, portrayed by Medha Shankar. Vikrant Massey’s portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma received accolades, and the film hit theatres on October 27, 2023.

The movie has garnered widespread acclaim, with praise pouring in from industry stalwarts such as Kareena Kapoor, Kamal Haasan, Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone, Vicky Kaushal, Rishabh Shetty, Sanjay Dutt, Farhan Akhtar, and Anil Kapoor. Notably, “12th Fail” clinched the Best Film award at the 69th Filmfare Awards.