Anurag Kashyap, a prominent filmmaker known for his distinctive cinematic vision, has recently offered a rare glimpse into the philosophy that shapes his personal life and professional approach. Despite his acclaimed career, Kashyap actively shuns extravagance, preferring a disciplined and simple existence over lavish homes or a fleet of luxury vehicles. This deliberate choice, he reveals, is deeply rooted in a significant financial setback from his past.
Kashyap’s commitment to simplicity is evident in his everyday life. He currently owns only one car, which he shares with his daughter. He prefers practical vehicles that can withstand environmental challenges, citing the difficulties luxury cars face during Mumbai’s monsoon floods. Such vehicles often incur substantial repair costs, a sum Kashyap notes could fund a more budget-friendly alternative.
The filmmaker, who recently relocated to Bengaluru, expresses contentment in his move away from the industry’s epicenter in Mumbai. While he continues to work actively, he finds satisfaction in a quieter life. He stated he is happy with his current situation and has no desire for grand properties or mansions, having been equally content living in Versova, Mumbai, prior to his move.
Kashyap’s filmmaking philosophy mirrors his personal frugality, emphasizing that working with limited budgets often fosters greater creativity. He believes this approach helps to prevent financial losses for others involved in a project. For commercial cinema, he advocates for simplifying narratives or drastically reducing production costs, urging filmmakers to avoid unnecessary expenditures like five-star hotel stays. The core principle, he stresses, is to make the desired film without causing financial harm to others.
This pragmatic stance on budgeting and responsibility stems directly from the profound financial impact of his 2015 film, “Bombay Velvet.” Kashyap openly shared how the film’s budget spiraled from an initial 280 million Indian Rupees (approximately $4.4 million USD) to a staggering 900 million Indian Rupees (approximately $14.3 million USD). This experience profoundly influenced his conviction in meticulous financial planning and the avoidance of wasteful spending. He recently discussed these insights on the Game Changers YouTube channel.