‘I feel terribly guilty’ Imtiaz Ali on fans leaving jobs inspired by ‘Tamasha’

Over the years, Tamasha has evolved from an underrated romantic drama into a movie that many young people consider deeply personal. Featuring Deepika Padukone and Ranbir Kapoor, the 2015 release remains relevant because of its exploration of self-worth, creative ambition and life beyond routine expectations.
Although the film received a divided response when it first arrived in cinemas, its popularity has steadily grown over the years. Many viewers have openly spoken about how the story encouraged them to reconsider their careers and pursue creative ambitions instead of remaining in conventional corporate jobs.

Imtiaz Ali opens up about unexpected impact of Tamasha

Director Imtiaz Ali recently reflected on the film’s long-term influence during an interaction connected to Boman Irani’s writers’ convention, Spiral Bound.

Speaking to News18, the filmmaker admitted that hearing such stories leaves him with complicated emotions.

“I feel terribly guilty,” Ali said while recalling conversations he had with aspiring writers at the event.

According to the filmmaker, several attendees told him they had left their jobs after watching Tamasha and had chosen writing as a profession instead.

Ali explained that his immediate reaction was concern for their future.

“So many of them came up to me and told me they left their jobs after watching Tamasha and now they’re writers. The instant thought that came to my mind is, I hope they succeed,” he said.

The director further explained that he often worries about the consequences of such major life decisions, especially when people credit the film for influencing them.

Ali admitted that if things do not work out for those who took risks inspired by the film, he would feel responsible in some way. He also pointed out that these decisions can affect entire families and not just individuals alone.

“I’ve got mixed feelings about all of this. I’m sure many of them had lucrative professions but left all of that to be artists just like all of us in the industry who are also trying to become artists,” he said.

Despite his concerns, the filmmaker said he still admires people who are brave enough to follow their passions.

‘Ultimately, I feel good’

Ali added that he personally has never approached life decisions purely from a financial or practical perspective.

“To be honest, if I were in their position, I would’ve been happy. I’ve personally never thought of these things very methodically, money-mindedly or practically. Ultimately, I feel good, but also a sense of responsibility,” he explained.

Over the years, Tamasha has become one of the few Hindi films that audiences continue revisiting long after its release, largely because of its emotional themes surrounding self-discovery, personal freedom and creative fulfilment.

Imtiaz Ali’s next film set for June release

Meanwhile, Imtiaz Ali is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga, which is scheduled to arrive in theatres on June 12.

The film stars Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang Raina and Sharvari in key roles.

According to reports, the film will explore themes of migration, separation and emotional loss.