NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Atlanta, GA, JUne 3, 2026: Producer Nikhil Nanda and Atlanta-based entrepreneur and actor Kamlesh Chugh joined NRI Pulse host Namita Dogra Sudan for a conversation about their film Aakhri Sawal, starring Bollywood veteran Sanjay Dutt, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the project’s vision, production, and audience reception.
Nanda described Aakhri Sawal as his Guru Dakshina to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), saying the film was conceived as a cinematic response to what he sees as confusion among younger generations about the organization.
“Today’s youth are confused about what the RSS is,” Nanda said, explaining that he wanted to move away from preachy messaging and instead tell the story through an engaging film format.
Rather than following a conventional narrative structure, Aakhri Sawal centers on a series of questions posed by a young character named Namoshi. Through the character of a professor, played by Sanjay Dutt, the film recreates historical anecdotes and events to provide answers and spark reflection.
Nanda said casting Dutt was never in doubt.
“For the professor’s role, Sanjay Dutt was my only choice,” he said, adding that the actor’s presence and expressive eyes brought the gravitas needed for the subject matter.
Addressing public perceptions surrounding Dutt’s past controversies, Nanda said his decision was based solely on the actor’s professional accomplishments and screen legacy. He praised Dutt’s contribution both in front of and behind the camera, describing him as a supportive co-producer and collaborator throughout the production.
The podcast also featured Atlanta resident Kamlesh Chugh, who plays a supporting role in the film. Chugh discussed her journey from working on Hollywood projects to appearing in Bollywood productions and reflected on the experience of sharing a set with one of India’s most recognizable film stars.
She noted that Bollywood storytelling often places a stronger emphasis on cultural themes and values than many Hollywood productions, making the experience particularly meaningful for her.
The conversation also touched on the film’s commercial performance. Nanda acknowledged that Aakhri Sawal did not attract the theatrical audience the team had hoped for. However, he suggested that the film’s format may be better suited to streaming audiences.
Calling it a “stationary, courtroom drama,” Nanda said the film is more conducive to home viewing than the big-screen experience many moviegoers seek today. He expressed confidence that the movie will find a wider audience through OTT platforms and revealed that discussions with streaming services are currently underway.
Despite its box office challenges, Nanda said the film’s mission remains unchanged: to encourage discussion about India’s past, present, and future through a format designed to engage younger audiences.
The full interview is available on the NRI Pulse Podcast.
