New Delhi: Fifteen years later, a sequel to The Dirty Picture might finally be in the works. Ekta Kapoor revealed that she is working on a sequel to the 2011 film and is ready to bring Silk back. However, the producer has not revealed the protagonist’s identity in the upcoming film.
During an appearance on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, Kapoor disclosed the project.
“I’m doing one very big film, so for the first time I’m saying I’m making Dirty Picture 2. For the first time after 15 years, I’m planning it,” she said.
During the conversation, Kapoor said she believes there is still a story to tell through the sequel. She explained that the first film was about Silk Smitha, played by Vidya Balan, a woman condemned for openly expressing her sexuality. Kapoor added that she did not see the character as a victim, stating that sexuality is a choice.
“So Dirty Picture 2 will also be about somebody like that. A man? Maybe. Let’s see. A girl. Okay, I am not telling you whose story. It’s a big announcement I’ll do in some time,” she said.
Kapoor also indicated that the announcement would be made soon.
Released in 2011, The Dirty Picture was reportedly inspired by the lives of actresses Silk Smitha and Disco Shanti, known for their bold roles. Directed by Milan Luthria and co-produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ekta Kapoor, the film starred Vidya Balan as Reshma, a woman who begins her journey working at a small eatery before entering the film industry. She adopts the screen name Silk and gradually makes a name for herself despite the challenges she faces.
Emraan Hashmi played Abraham, a filmmaker loosely inspired by director Balu Mahendra, who aspires to make critically acclaimed cinema. Naseeruddin Shah portrayed Ramakanth, an ageing actor known for commercial films who becomes romantically involved with Silk.
Made on a reported budget of Rs 11 crore, the film became a box-office success, reportedly collecting around Rs 117 crore during its theatrical run.
On the podcast, Kapoor also shared how people used to call her a “tantrik” in her 20s because of the way she dressed.
Kapoor spoke about how people have become more accepting of individual expression. Recalling her 20s, she said people would question her appearance and ask why she dressed differently.
“Wearing a tika and wearing a dhaga is dressed like a freak, my darling? Log kehte the ki aap tantrik ho (People used to say that you are a tantrik),” she said.