Jha, who has helmed socio-political films like "Gangaajal", "Apaharan" and "Raajneeti", feels it is difficult to direct a movie which is based in a territory he is not familiar with.
"My films are rooted here. So, somebody has to give me a script which I feel comfortable with. It's difficult for me to write a script which is rooted elsewhere. Like, if there is a Hollywood kind of script rooted in India, I would definitely like to do it," Jha told PTI.
The director says if the characters are sub-continental, then it becomes easier for him to guide his script, unlike if they are entirely set in America.
"Even if I am living there, it's difficult for me to suddenly guide my scripts, actors and prepare them. But if there are characters who are sub-continental, then I feel very comfortable with the story," says the "Aarakshan" filmmaker.
Jha is ready with his directorial venture "Jai Gangaajal", set to release on March 4. The film stars Priyanka Chopra as IPS officer Abha Mathur, who takes on some powerful and influential men in her district.
The 64-year-old director said for a while he was talking to various DSPs for the character, and it was then the thought dawned on him that he could play it himself.
"I was looking for something more than what I usually had been doing, this was there on my mind, but when I started developing this character, I started feeling interested. I was talking to several DSPs as far as the character was concerned and I got so close to the nuances and everything, that I thought this probably is the opportunity to take a step and do something new," he said.
"If there are good (acting) opportunities, then why not. I've already explored the territory of acting with this one, now I would like to expand," he said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
