Gulzar is returning to screenplay writing with debutant Harshvardhan Kapoor-starrer "Mirzya", but the writer-poet says it's the actor's star father Anil, who he always longed to work with.
Gulzar has collaborated with director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra for "Mirzya", which is inspired by the Punjabi folklore of 'Mirza-Sahiban'.
The film's team, along with Anil, daughters Sonam, Rhea and the whole Kapoor family, were present at the music launch of the movie.
On the occasion, Anil joked, "Gulzar saab, I've been struggling with you for 35 years. Please tell the audience for how many years I've been asking you to take me in your film.
"I came at your place almost 34 years ago. I went to him and said please make a film with me, he never made. I want this answer. But thank you very much, at least you made a film with my son," the 59-year-old star said.
To which the writer replied, "I told Harshvardhan, Your dad will pull my leg by saying you're not working with me, but you're working with my son.
"But I was telling Harsh that somehow I kept missing him (Anil) when it comes to casting. Because I was never a producer. I used to work as a director and make films for others... I wish you had employed me once," Gulzar quipped.
Gulzar, 82, last wrote "Hu Tu Tu", the 1999 drama starring Tabu and Suniel Shetty, also his directorial venture.
When asked what took him 17 years to pick the pen again, Gulzar, in his usual modest and playful manner, said, "I didn't get employment from anyone or from anywhere until I met Rakeysh".
Now the writer is gearing up for the release of "Mirzya", which hits theatre on October 7.
Also starring newcomer Saiyami Kher, it has been co-produced by ROMP Pictures and Cinestaan Film Company.
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