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'I think I'm just scratching the surface' — Addinath M. Kothare on winning big with 'Paani'
Following a remarkable night at the Filmfare Marathi Awards, where his film Paani won 10 trophies, including Best Film and Best Director, Addinath Kothare says he refuses to slow down. Over a candid revelation, he opened up about why Paani struck such a chord, how he balances life on both sides of the camera, and why, despite all the accolades, he feels he's only just begun.
On winning big with Paani
Honestly, it's still sinking in. Paani was born out of genuine passion to tell relevant stories and from a place of real concern about something that affects so many lives. To see that story resonate with audiences was already the biggest reward for us. And then for it to be celebrated like this at Filmfare, with so many of our departments recognised, is deeply fulfilling. It feels like all the struggles and sleepless nights were worth it.
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I believe it was the honesty. We didn't set out to make a message heavy film or glamourise the issue. Water scarcity is a harsh, everyday reality for countless people, and we tried to portray it with empathy and respect. Also, the entire team gave it their all, from Priyanka, Madhu, my father, Siddharth, and every single person on set, there was utmost dedication to telling the story. There was so much heart poured into every frame by every single one, I think audiences can sense that sincerity.
On his next projects
Both are very different from Paani, which is what I love. I'm drawn to stories rooted in human struggles, but I also want to explore different genres and larger canvases. Bena which I am also producing, apart from acting in it, is in post-production now; it's a beautiful, intimate film that's very close to my heart. The next one is still taking shape. Pushing my own boundaries is what keeps me going. I think I'm just scratching the surface, there's a lot more I want to be doing.
On Zapatlela 3 and juggling between Marathi and Hindi
At the end of the day, language is just a medium. Good stories and good characters are universal. Whether it's Marathi, Hindi, or even something beyond that someday, I just want to be part of narratives that move people. I did my first Malayalam film and that was exciting too.
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