In a vibrant testament to Punjab’s rich cultural heritage, filmmaker Mukesh Gautam has once again made headlines with his latest achievement. Known for his compelling docu-dramas that delve into the lives of Sufi legends such as Sheikh Farid, Bulleh Shah, and Syed Mohammad Waris Shah, Gautam has now added a National Award-winning feature film to his illustrious portfolio. His film, ‘Baghi Di Dhee’, has clinched the prestigious National Award for Best Punjabi Feature Film at the 70th National Film Awards, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Gautam’s journey in Punjabi cinema has been marked by a relentless pursuit of projects that are both challenging and deeply rooted in Punjab’s heritage, culture, and history. ‘Baghi Di Dhee’, a period film set against the backdrop of the Ghadar movement, exemplifies this commitment. Despite facing budgetary constraints—a recurring challenge in Punjabi filmmaking—Gautam successfully brought to life the story of a 14-year-old revolutionary, adapted from a short story by Gurmukh Singh Musafir. The film’s authentic early 20th-century aesthetic was achieved through meticulous location scouting, including a historic 1914 bungalow in Chandigarh, and the expert craftsmanship of theatre veteran Pali Bhupinder, who penned the dialogues.
“The budget of Punjabi cinema is always a constraint, especially when you are going against the current,” Gautam reflected. Yet, his dedication paid off, earning widespread acclaim for both the film’s artistic merit and its portrayal of a pivotal chapter in Punjab’s struggle for freedom. Although ‘Baghi Di Dhee’ did not achieve blockbuster status at the box office, Gautam emphasizes its enduring legacy. “Films like these have a life beyond commercial returns,” he noted, underscoring the film’s lasting impact on cinematic history.
Gautam’s success with ‘Baghi Di Dhee’ follows his previous accolades, including recognition from the All India Radio and Television Producers Association for his film ‘Sajda’, which explores the life of Waris Shah. His dedication to highlighting Punjabi virsa (heritage) extends beyond his films; his popular series ‘Virsa’ continues to celebrate Sikh traditions, culture, and prominent figures, garnering a loyal audience.
As Punjabi cinema gains traction with higher production values and a growing audience base, Gautam advocates for a balanced approach to filmmaking. He urges successful producers of popular franchises like ‘Jatt and Juliet’ and ‘Carry on Jatta’ to invest in projects that illuminate Punjab’s rich legacy. “Merely paying lip service and boasting about how our culture is exceptionally rich is not enough,” he asserts. “We need to make Gen Z realize the power and beauty of our cultural history through the wonderful medium of cinema, TV, and even social media.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Gautam takes pride in his family’s involvement in the film industry. His daughters, Yami and Surilie, are actors married to notable figures—Aditya Dhar, director of ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’, and Jasraj Bhatti, respectively—highlighting a legacy of creativity and artistic pursuit within the family.
When questioned about a potential transition to Bollywood, Gautam remains focused on his core mission. “Whatever may be my creative pursuits, my line of thinking would follow the same tangent—‘Achha kaam karo…’” he affirmed, signaling his unwavering commitment to meaningful and culturally significant storytelling.
As Mukesh Gautam continues to champion Punjabi heritage through his films, his recent National Award serves not only as personal recognition but also as a beacon for the future of Punjabi cinema. His work inspires a new generation to explore and celebrate the profound narratives that define Punjab’s enduring spirit.
