Embracing Life's Diverse Offerings: Article 370 Actor Yami Gautam and Producer Aditya Dhar's Journey

How's the josh? High! This is the response of the parents-to-be actor Yami Gautam and husband, producer Aditya Dhar. The couple has all the reason to celebrate on several counts, they are all set to welcome their first child in May, and their film Article 370, has opened to a successful box office stint, grossing nearly 45 crores.

The political thriller helmed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale is based on a series of events leading to the abrogation of special constitutional status to Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi too mentioned the film in one of his rallies, saying films have the potential to provide accurate insights to the public.

Yami Gautam plays intelligence officer Zooni Haksar, a Kashmiri Pandit who has a 'personal grudge' against the corrupt leadership of the state. National award-winning actor Priyamani is a determined Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office.

A large section of the media has called it an absolute propaganda film. Producer Aditya Dhar begs to differ. "Our job is to give our best to whatever project we are doing with the utmost conviction", says Dhar. He adds, "Once the film goes into the theatres it's in the audience's hands. After that, you have no control over it. We aim to make sure that we come up with the best story possible and the best film. That is the only point of view we have that was the idea during Uri too, that it should inspire people to join the Army and with this, we hope it motivates young women to join the National Intelligence Service."

The film is a case in point of how female lead narratives are no longer seen as not being commercially viable.

Yami Gautam who has been constantly pushing the envelope when it comes to breaking gender norms in cinema, responds "I have played roles where one is going against the tide. But this film and playing Zooni was emotionally and physically challenging and I aimed to play her with the utmost conviction. Hats off to my producer ( her husband Aditya Dhar) and brother Lokesh for respecting and giving that honour to the sanctity of casting, maintaining the authenticity and of course backing it. I think this is what women's empowerment is, it is not about what I wish to do or this is my right, but it is when someone is trusting you with this kind of responsibility. It's a huge part. This was my first kind of solo theatrical release, it was not only me challenging my comfort zone, but it's a huge risk for them as well and a responsibility on me too, but the makers had the utmost confidence in me."

Yami Gautam who made her debut with 'Vicky Donor' in 2010 had commented on being stereotyped and not being given her due as an actor. However, in the past five years with Uri: The Surgical Strike, Bala, Dasvi, and A Thursday, the actor has thrown caution to the winds, and forged her path.

Her husband says she has become fearless and that's what has worked in her favour. "What happens in this industry is that everybody around you tries to tell you that this is the right way to do it and this is the only way to do it. How one should stick to the norms that have been created by the industry, to be seen and with whom. With Yami, she just concentrated on her work, nor is she socially savvy and somewhere that kind of anonymity gave her the courage and her focus was let me concentrate on the films, stories and acting, rather than the paraphernalia that accompanies it. She's very intuitive and smart with her script choices, she understands what the audience wants to see", he says with an unmistakable pride.

Married for three years ,Yami says the couple creatively bounce ideas and have discussions related to cinema at home amongst other things.

"We just love discussing ideas. I love listening to him because his perspective and take on writing and the execution bit which is the performance, is so phenomenal. He constantly encourages one to break the pattern and not conform to a set image. There are so many things, and I am always seeking him out to brainstorm with him." The concerned wife echoes that since writing is such a mentally taxing job. " I am just happy when I see him sleeping soundly, and tell myself that his brain is getting its much needed rest."

In her third trimester, Yami reveals she is currently enjoying watching reruns of her film 'Dhoom Dhaam' which also stars Pratik Gandhi, and will soon premiere on OTT.
"I need to watch fun things so this one is just what I need."

As the clock ticks towards parenthood, Yami Gautam and Aditya Dhar bask in multiple joys-anticipating their baby's arrival while celebrating the success of 'Article 370.' Their narrative reflects a blend of personal milestones and professional triumphs, setting a commendable example for embracing life's diverse offerings with zeal.