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Imtiaz clarifies 'Main Vaapas...'  is nothing like 'Love Aaj Kal'
'Main Vaapas Aaunga' is set for release soon

Imtiaz clarifies 'Main Vaapas...'  is nothing like 'Love Aaj Kal'

May 23, 2026
12:17 pm

What's the story

Imtiaz Ali, the director of the upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga, has dismissed comparisons with his previous work Love Aaj Kal. Speaking to News18, he said, "This isn't a cross-generational romance. It's not like we're telling or comparing two love stories in this one film." The movie stars Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari, and Vedang Raina and is set against the backdrop of the India-Pakistan partition.

Film's focus

Ali clarifies why it's different from 'Love Aaj Kal'

Ali clarified, "It's set in a different era. There's only Jiya and Kinu. Main Vaapas Aaunga is all about them." He added, "I'm not even wasting my time to explain to people that it's not Love Aaj Kal. Anybody who sees the film, Love Aaj Kal isn't what they'll be thinking about." "However, a discovery of the past time from the present point of view is a big part of this film." The romance drama will release on June 12.

Film's theme

The director on the project's relevance today

The director further highlighted that while the movie may be set in a different era, its themes are still relevant today. He explained, "It's about 'what I remember almost makes my personality the way it is now.' It makes a big impression at a time when migration is so drastic." "This concept of 'what I've lost with time' is a big part of this film.'"

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Film's exploration

On the migration theme in the movie

Ali also delved into the theme of migration in his movie. He said, "You put the television on, and you see people migrating from one country to another across borders, legally and illegally." "The sense of loss isn't only material. It's also emotional. This film is a bit about that, about the love that you carry when you cross a border."

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Director's style

Ali on recurring themes in his projects

Ali also acknowledged that the themes of love, passion, and longing are a consistent part of his ventures. However, he clarified that he doesn't consciously choose these themes. "When I start writing a story, I don't think of any themes or about visiting a particular template," he reflected. "It's only when I'm in a conversation with someone, this question gets asked to me."

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