Over the years, Bollywood has seen directors offering a peek into their personal lives through their films. For example, Mahesh Bhatt’s Zakhm and Arth were taken out of the pages of his own life, and are also considered as some of the most moving semi-autobiographical films of Hindi cinema. Speaking of which, Sudhir Mishra’s upcoming film Swaha reminisces the life and times of his late partner — renowned film editor Renu Saluja. The story revolves around his relationship with her and their last days together before her death in 2000, following a battle with cancer. While Aditi Rao Hydari will be seen essaying the lead role of Saluja, the actor who will play Sudhir, is yet to be cast.
Renu, an FTII (Film and Television Institute of India) alumna and four-time National Award-winning editor for Parinda (1989), Dharavi (1991), Sardar (1993) and Godmother (1999), was revered by filmmakers like Shekhar Kapur, Govind Nihalani, Kundan Shah and Vidhu Vinod Chopra. Some of her other well-known films include Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (1993), Bandit Queen (1995), Pardes (1997), Rockford (1999) and Hey Ram (2000). Nagesh Kukunoor’s Bollywood Calling and Sudhir’s Calcutta Mail, released in 2003, were her last edited films.
Renu was previously married to filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra. When asked if he, too, will be portrayed in the film, Sudhir said, “There will be references. As an individual, you make certain choices and other relationships are a part of it. She and Vinod continued to be friends and worked together even after they separated. In fact, she was editing Vidhu’s Mission Kashmir before she passed away. Director Rajkumar Hirani eventually completed the film.” There were reports of Vidhu also planning to make a film on her, many years ago. Speaking of it, Sudhir added, “I had heard about it. If he wants to do it, he should. It’s always interesting to see the other person’s point of view as well. I don’t own her. It’s his right, as they shared a beautiful friendship. Vidhu and I have never had any problems with each other, contrary to speculations. He is a great guy and we were there, together, at her funeral.”
As far as Aditi Rao Hydari’s casting is concerned, the director reasoned, “I like Aditi as an actor. She lends that soft sensitivity to a character. Renu was best known for two things — her infectious laughter and impromptu singing. She would constantly laugh despite the serious nature of her work and would sing Hindi songs at any given point. Aditi can sing and has that smile as well, so she was the perfect choice. The film is slated to go on floors this year.”