After Kantara, everyone’s been approaching me with stories set in forests: Arvind Kashyap

Following the immense success of Kantara, cinematographer Arvind Kashyap has been inundated not just with appreciation, but also with scripts from across languages. “And almost everyone tells me the same thing: ‘This film is also set in a forest, and we want you on board,’” he says with a laugh. “Just because Kantara was set against a sylvan backdrop doesn’t mean I want to keep working only in that space. I want to experiment with other settings too,” shares Arvind.After five years of working on the Kantara franchise, Arvind has now begun work on his next project — a complete departure from what he has done so far. “I’m working as the DOP for Balayya’s next; it’s his 111th film and is currently being referred to as NBK 111. I’m in Hyderabad filming for it, and it’s a mass entertainer that promises to appeal to the whole family. It’s colourful, flamboyant, and the complete opposite of the world of Kantara,” says Arvind.Arvind confesses that working with Balayya has been an absolute riot. “I can’t help but admire his enthusiasm and discipline even after so many films and years in the industry. What’s remarkable is that he never takes a break and retreat to his caravan between shots. He stays right there on the set, soaking in every moment. His energy is so infectious that it makes you more disciplined about your work too. I haven’t yet gathered the courage to ask him for a selfie — he’s such a veteran. But I will do so one of these days and treasure the experience of working on this film,” says Arvind.