Author Jerry Pinto recently spoke with indianexpress.com about the new web series adaptation of his novel “Murder in Mahim”. The series, which premiered on Jio Cinema on May 10, stars Ashutosh Rana as journalist Peter Fernandes and Vijay Raaz as police officer Shivajirao Jende. It delves into a murder mystery that uncovers deep-seated issues of greed, despair, desire, and homosexuality in India.
Pinto shared his excitement about the casting choices and praised the talents of Rana and Raaz. “I was delighted by the casting. Both Vijay Raaz and Ashutosh Rana have the ability to suggest interior lives, which is very rare and wonderful in an actor,” he said. Pinto believes that these actors bring a depth to their characters that enhances the storytelling, making the series a compelling watch.
Inspiration Behind the Book
Pinto revealed that the decriminalization of homosexuality by the Supreme Court inspired him to write “Murder in Mahim”. He expressed his anger at the discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community and wanted to address these issues through his writing. “I wrote this book to stop people from judging others based on whom they choose to love. Many people still feel shame, and this shame can be used against them. This needed to stop,” Pinto explained. He aimed to create a narrative that not only entertains but also educates and challenges societal norms.
Casting and Adaptation
When asked about the casting process, Pinto was enthusiastic about the choices. “I was really happy with their choices. Having two of our finest actors agree to be a part of this project was like a compliment to my book,” he noted. Pinto acknowledged that casting involves many factors, including availability and the actor’s connection to the script. “Casting is a complex process. It depends on who’s available, what the timeline is, and whether the script speaks to the actor. There are a hundred things that must fall into place,” he said.
Regarding changes from the book to the series, Pinto embraced the differences. “When we read a book, we all become film directors in our minds. I liked being surprised by what my book looked like through someone else’s vision,” he said. He appreciates the unique interpretations and adaptations that the director and actors brought to the story, highlighting the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
Addressing Homosexuality and Sex Work
The series touches on significant issues like sex work and homosexuality in India. Pinto hopes the series will influence audiences to see beyond superficial differences. “We are all the same, whether gay or straight, transgender or cisgender, upper caste or not. The series shows that there’s more that unites us than divides us,” Pinto emphasized. He highlighted the common humanity shared by all characters, such as a sex worker and a retired journalist, showing that fundamental human connections surpass societal divisions.
Impact on Audience Perception
Pinto believes that storytelling can be a powerful tool for social change. “You write hoping that people will see that beyond everything, we are really the same people,” he said. The series aims to challenge viewers to reflect on their own biases and perceptions. By portraying characters from diverse backgrounds with empathy and nuance, “Murder in Mahim” encourages viewers to confront their prejudices and embrace a more inclusive perspective.
Series Highlights
Murder in Mahim is not just a crime thriller; it is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships and societal issues. The plot revolves around a retired journalist and a police officer who come together to solve a murder mystery. In the process, they uncover secrets that expose the darker aspects of society, including issues related to greed, despair, and desire.
The series also delves into the lives of sex workers, highlighting their struggles and the stigma they face. By giving voice to marginalized communities, Murder in Mahim seeks to humanize these characters and shed light on their experiences.
Future Projects
Looking ahead, Pinto is excited about the potential for more adaptations of his work. He believes that visual storytelling can reach a wider audience and have a greater impact. “I look forward to seeing more of my stories brought to life on screen,” he said. Pinto remains committed to writing stories that challenge societal norms and advocate for greater understanding and acceptance.
Conclusion
Murder in Mahim not only offers a gripping crime story but also serves as a powerful commentary on social issues in contemporary India. Through its complex characters and thought-provoking narrative, the series aims to inspire viewers to see beyond their biases and embrace the common humanity that unites us all. Jerry Pinto’s work continues to challenge and engage audiences, making a significant contribution to the discourse on important social issues.