Sooraj Barjatya is making headlines again as he embarks on a whirlwind 60-day shoot for his much-anticipated romantic family drama, Yeh Prem Mol Liya. This rapid-fire schedule is a notable shift for Barjatya, who’s traditionally known for orchestrating grand, expansive productions that often stretch over many months. Yet, with this latest venture, he’s demonstrating an impressive agility, determined to capture the magic of his storytelling within a much tighter timeframe. The shoot began in earnest following a vibrant, week-long song sequence in Kandivli, Mumbai, commencing on November 1.

The heart of the production beats within the walls of Mehboob Studios, a storied location in Mumbai’s cinematic landscape. Here, Barjatya’s team has pulled off a remarkable feat, constructing enormous indoor sets that sprawl across three floors. These sets aren’t just backdrops, they’re immersive environments, designed to encapsulate the warmth, tradition, and emotion that fans have come to expect from his films. By keeping about 80 percent of the shooting indoors, Barjatya ensures not only maximum control over the film’s visual palette but also creates a cohesive, almost theatrical world in which his characters can live and breathe. Only a select few sequences will break free from the studio, hinting at a film that’s both intimate and contained, yet capable of delivering the cinematic grandeur for which he is celebrated.

Leading the cast is Ayushmann Khurrana, an actor whose versatility and relatability have made him a household name. Opposite him is Sharvari, bringing fresh energy and charm to the screen. Khurrana’s role draws inspiration from Barjatya’s beloved “Prem” archetype, a character that has long served as the emotional anchor in the director’s body of work. However, Barjatya is intent on updating this persona for a new generation, promising a portrayal that balances the innocence and idealism of his earlier films with a more nuanced, contemporary understanding of love and relationships. This blend of nostalgia and innovation is central to the film’s appeal, aiming to resonate with both longtime fans and younger audiences.

Supporting the leads is an impressive ensemble of seasoned actors: Anupam Kher, Seema Pahwa, and Supriya Pathak, each of whom brings depth and gravitas to the narrative. Insiders report that the initial song sequence was quintessentially Barjatya: a lavish, exuberant affair featuring over 200 background dancers. Such sequences are more than just visual spectacle; they are celebrations of community, joy, and togetherness that have become a signature of his cinematic style. These moments harken back to the golden era of Bollywood musicals, while also feeling fresh and inclusive in the context of today’s audiences.

Barjatya has always been a filmmaker who understands the pulse of Indian families, their joys, struggles, and the ties that bind them. With Yeh Prem Mol Liya, he’s striving to bring that sensitivity into sharper focus, mindful of changing social dynamics and evolving definitions of love. He has spoken about the importance of authenticity, of crafting a cinematic world where viewers can truly see themselves, a challenge in an age when audiences are both nostalgic for the past and hungry for new stories that reflect their realities.

As the production races forward, there is a palpable sense of anticipation and curiosity within the industry. Can Barjatya successfully marry the warmth and values of his earlier films with the complexities of modern relationships? Will his team be able to sustain the intense pace of this condensed schedule without compromising on the lavishness and heart that are hallmarks of his style? With every passing day on set, the answers are unfolding, and both film lovers and industry insiders are watching closely, eager to see how this ambitious project comes together. If anyone can bridge the gap between old and new, crafting a love story that feels both timeless and timely, it’s Sooraj Barjatya.