Digital News Guru Entertainment Desk:
Veteran filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, renowned for blockbuster hits like 3 Idiots, PK and Dunki, has revealed plans to create a short film using artificial intelligence (AI) — an experimental project that’s grabbing headlines in the Indian entertainment world.
In a recent interview with Variety India, Hirani said he is excited about exploring AI as a creative tool rather than a threat to cinema. While traditional filmmaking remains his forte, he believes that AI can help storytellers achieve feats that were previously difficult or costly to realise.
He explained that he has a compelling story ready and plans to turn it into a 4- to 5-minute short film using AI tools — a project he hopes to complete in the coming months. The director said this will be a way for him to learn more about the potential of AI, emphasising that the technology should be viewed as a creative ally, not a replacement for human filmmaking.
Hirani added that AI is “here to stay” and could be a “great tool” for filmmakers, especially in areas where traditional methods can’t easily deliver — though he clarified that making a fully AI-generated film remains a complex and labour-intensive task.
What the Project Means for Indian Cinema
This move by Hirani marks a notable shift in perspective among established filmmakers toward artificial intelligence. While AI has been used increasingly behind the scenes in Hollywood and world cinema — from visual effects to script tools — few mainstream Indian directors have publicly talked about using it to co-create narrative cinema. Hirani’s experiment could inspire others to examine how technology intersects with creativity.
It’s worth noting that India’s entertainment industry has already seen AI-assisted content and storytelling experiments, although they remain largely niche. For example, some short films and music videos have employed AI for visual design and editing enhancements. Hirani’s project, given his stature, could accelerate broader technological adoption and debate within Bollywood.
Public Reaction: Excitement and Skepticism
News of Hirani’s AI film project has sparked mixed reactions on social media and entertainment circles. Some fans and film enthusiasts are intrigued by the idea of one of India’s most respected directors pushing creative boundaries. Others, however, are skeptical — arguing that technology shouldn’t overshadow human creativity, and that AI films may lack the emotional depth of traditionally made cinema.
Critics on social platforms have said the project might be a “waste of talent” or that storytelling should remain rooted in human experience. At the same time, supporters have pointed out that experimenting with technology doesn’t diminish a filmmaker’s legacy, but could add new dimensions to creative expression.
What Lies Ahead for Hirani and AI Cinema
At present, Hirani’s AI short film remains in the planning and scripting stages. He has not disclosed specific details about the story itself, cast (if any), distribution plans, or when audiences might be able to see the project. What is clear is his intent to use AI as a tool to experiment with storytelling, potentially creating a model that other filmmakers might follow.
While the project is short in duration, its implications for the future of Indian cinema could be significant. If successful, it may encourage filmmakers to blend traditional narrative strengths with technological innovation — potentially spawning new storytelling formats suited to digital and short-form platforms.
Hirani’s Recent Work and Legacy
Rajkumar Hirani’s last directorial venture, Dunki (2023), starred Shah Rukh Khan and Taapsee Pannu and received widespread attention for its heart-felt narrative and strong performances.
Over a career spanning multiple blockbuster hits and beloved characters, Hirani has become known for films that balance humour with social commentary. His move toward AI doesn’t signal a departure from core filmmaking — rather, it shows a willingness to expand the toolkit available to storytellers while retaining his signature approach to narrative.
AI and Cinema: A Growing Trend
Globally, filmmakers are increasingly experimenting with AI — not to replace human creativity, but to augment it. Whether it’s AI-assisted visual effects, script-writing tools, or digital production techniques, the technology’s influence on filmmaking continues to grow. Hirani’s experiment could add momentum to this trend in India’s entertainment ecosystem.
As audiences and creators alike watch closely, this project may become an early example of how traditional storytelling and cutting-edge tech can co-exist on screen, opening new possibilities for content, format, and audience engagement.
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