Kalpesh Damani

Kalpesh Damani might not be splashed across every billboard, but the guy’s carved out a weirdly fascinating spot for himself in Bollywood. You’ve probably stumbled across his work even if you didn’t realize it—think Jagga Jasoos, that wild musical detective ride from 2017, or Blurr (2022), which is more of a moody, psychological thriller. And let’s not forget Bheja Fry from way back in 2007, a film so offbeat it’s still getting quoted by people who think they’re quirky (spoiler: they’re right, the film’s a gem). His projects are all over the place in the best way. Jagga Jasoos is basically a fever dream mashed up with a musical, riding on Ranbir Kapoor’s awkward charm and some truly bizarre plot twists. Seriously, who writes a detective story that feels like a Disney musical? Apparently, Kalpesh is game for anything. Then he swings to Blurr, which is grim, twisty, and claustrophobic—a total 180. That movie’s like, “Hey, what if you can’t trust your own eyes?” and suddenly you’re questioning reality for the next two hours. And Bheja Fry, man, that’s just classic comedy. The kind where you’re laughing and cringing at the same time (thank you, awkward dinner parties). Kalpesh Damani seems to have this sixth sense for picking or crafting stories that don’t fit in a box. He keeps things unpredictable, and honestly, you never really know what you’re going to get with his name attached—and that’s half the fun.