As Imtiaz Ali’s Highway completes 11 years, actor Randeep Hooda looks back at the film with immense nostalgia and gratitude. The 2014 film, which also starred Alia Bhatt, remains one of the most celebrated works of both actors, known for its soul-stirring performances and poignant storytelling.
Marking the anniversary, Randeep Hooda shared his reflections on the film’s deep emotional impact and why it continues to hold a special place in his heart. He said, “Highway is such a classic because it’s a journey and that too of love. A pure love that is doomed by the class divide in our country. It’s just not acceptable in our society. Though Veera being innocent about it wants it but Mahabir knowing the reality resists, only to finally give in and pay the price with his life. Highway is a movie where “living the part” started to take some tangible shape for me. I’m really grateful to Imtiaz for letting that happen to me. It did spill over to my life as well at that time and maybe Mahabir still lingers within me.
It was a very depressing and bitter state of mind. In those days I lived it more off camera and than what was captured. Over the years I’m still learning to have more translate on camera and have less affliction of that in one’s real life.”Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Highway was a film that redefined cinematic storytelling, blending raw emotions with breathtaking visuals of India’s landscapes. Randeep Hooda and Alia Bhatt’s power-packed performances made it a milestone film that continues to resonate with audiences even today. As the film completes 11 years, fans and cinephiles celebrate the timeless appeal of Highway, a story that remains etched in the hearts of many.