“My First Instinct Was…” Farhan Akhtar Opens Up About a Difficult Moment

MUMBAI — Producer and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar revealed that his initial reaction to writer Puneet Krishna’s original script pitch for the hit crime franchise Mirzapur was so intense that his "first instinct was to take him to a psychiatrist." Speaking at the official promotional launch event for Mirzapur: The Movie in Mumbai, the co-founder of Excel Entertainment recounted his early discussions regarding the show's dark and unconventional narrative, crediting the creative team's vision for turning the bold concept into a massive cross-platform success.

The upcoming theatrical adaptation marks a significant shift for the popular streaming series, bringing its core characters to big-screen audiences nationwide. Akhtar, alongside producing partner Ritesh Sidhwani, emphasized that the decision to adapt the franchise for cinema halls was driven primarily by sustained fan demand and the expanding scope of the story universe.

Creative Evolution From Streaming Series to Theatrical Feature

During the press interaction, Akhtar detailed how the project first took shape at Excel Entertainment. The producer noted that the raw and intense nature of the script initially caught the team off guard, but they quickly recognized the narrative's potential to resonate with audiences seeking high-stakes crime drama.

"When Puneet first came to us, our first instinct was to take him to a psychiatrist, but then we thought if we made the show, people could get into it," Akhtar joked while addressing the media gathering. He attributed the franchise's enduring popularity to director Gurmmeet Singh and creator-writer Puneet Krishna, describing them as the core drivers behind the property's success.

Impact on Cinema Exhibitors and Content Adaptation

The transition of Mirzapur from an OTT streaming format to a theatrical feature film reflects broader shifts in India’s media and entertainment landscape. Trade analysts observe that established digital intellectual properties (IPs) are increasingly being leveraged for theatrical runs to capture both online and traditional cinema audiences.

Exhibitors across major Indian metropolitan centers have welcomed the adaptation, citing high brand recognition and built-in audience engagement. Film industry strategists note that successful digital-to-theatrical adaptations provide production houses with diversified revenue models, including advance ticket sales, satellite broadcast rights, and subsequent post-theatrical digital streaming windows.

Official Sources Section

Official announcements and project details were shared during the promotional events organized by the production house:

• Event Organizer Disclosures: Statements and promotional updates delivered during the media launch hosted by Excel Entertainment.

• Distribution Updates: Press releases filed regarding theatrical distribution schedules and platform partnerships.

Quote Section

"When Puneet first came to us, our first instinct was to take him to a psychiatrist, but then we thought if we made the show, people could get into it. Guru and Puneet are the heroes of the show," stated producer Farhan Akhtar during the media interaction in Mumbai.

Why It Matters

The expansion of Mirzapur into a feature film demonstrates the growing convergence between streaming platforms and traditional cinema distribution in India. As popular digital series transition to big-screen formats, media companies are creating new benchmarks for content monetization, audience retention, and franchise building across the entertainment sector.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Executive Statement: Farhan Akhtar shared his initial reaction to the Mirzapur script pitch at a press launch in Mumbai.

• Creative Team: Credited writer Puneet Krishna and director Gurmmeet Singh for guiding the franchise's direction.

• Format Shift: The crime drama is transitioning from a successful multi-season streaming series into a theatrical feature film.

• Production House: Produced under Excel Entertainment by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

FAQ Section

What did Farhan Akhtar say about the original pitch for Mirzapur?

Farhan Akhtar humorously remarked that his first instinct upon hearing writer Puneet Krishna's pitch was to take him to a psychiatrist due to the story's wild and intense narrative.

Who are the primary creative leads behind the Mirzapur franchise?

The franchise was created and written by Puneet Krishna, directed by Gurmmeet Singh, and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under Excel Entertainment.

Is Mirzapur being adapted into a feature film?

Yes. Following its multi-season run as a digital streaming series, the franchise is being adapted into a feature film titled Mirzapur: The Movie for theatrical release.

Source: Media briefings and event proceedings organized by Excel Entertainment.