Destined Success: Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Serendipitous Journey with “12th Fail”

In the realm of filmmaking, destiny often weaves its narrative threads, and director Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s experience with “12th Fail” is a testament to this cosmic storytelling. The film, based on Anurag Pathak’s book, delves into the remarkable life of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who triumphed over extreme poverty to become an IPS officer. Played masterfully by Vikrant Massey, the film has not only touched hearts but also grossed an impressive Rs 67 crore worldwide.

An Unexpected Encounter: The Book That Almost Slipped Away

Chopra’s journey with “12th Fail” began with an unexpected encounter when Manoj approached him with the book, seeking a blurb. Ever the witty storyteller, Chopra humorously warned Manoj that if he found the book ‘bakwaas,’ he’d have to publish that critique as well. Little did he know that this chance encounter would set the stage for a remarkable cinematic venture.

A Literary Roulette: Sachin Tendulkar, Rajkumar Hirani, and the Turning Point

Upon receiving the printed book, Chopra discovered endorsements from cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani. A call to Hirani unveiled a pivotal moment—Chopra hadn’t read the book. Hirani’s enthusiastic proclamation, “Sir, aapne book nahi padi?” marked a turning point. With Tendulkar and Hirani’s praises echoing, the director found himself at a crossroads, contemplating the cinematic potential of “12th Fail.”

Rendezvous with Destiny: The Proposal That Altered Plans

Chopra’s creative energy wasn’t initially aligned with filmmaking, yet destiny had other plans. Rajkumar Hirani, already engrossed in a project, proposed a collaboration—Chopra could write the film, and Hirani would direct. Embracing the unforeseen opportunity, Chopra embarked on a creative journey that would eventually unfold into the compelling narrative of “12th Fail.”

The Global Triumph: From Page to Screen

The culmination of this serendipitous journey resulted in “12th Fail” hitting the screens in 2023, three years after Chopra’s 2020 release, “Shikara.” The film’s global success, grossing Rs 67 crore, is a testament to the power of destiny in shaping cinematic tales. Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s rendezvous with “12th Fail” serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories find their way to the silver screen in the most unexpected ways.

Celebrating Destiny’s Play: A Special Event in Reflection

As the film’s success was celebrated in a special event, the echoes of destiny’s play resonated. Lyricist Swanand Kirkire delved into the inception of the project, prompting Chopra to reflect on the twists, turns, and chance encounters that defined the film’s path. “12th Fail” stands not just as a cinematic triumph but as a testament to the enchanting dance of fate in the world of storytelling.