Sunny Deol, Jaya Bachchan to Kalki Koechlin: Bollywood actors who stepped behind the camera as scriptwriters

Kalki Koechlin turned scriptwriter for the acclaimed film ‘That Girl in Yellow Boots’, which was screened at the Toronto and Venice Film Festivals. The film drew significant attention for its bold theme and strong performances. Although it did not connect deeply with the wider audience, Kalki’s writing showcased her creative range. Her acting in the film was particularly appreciated, cementing her reputation as a versatile performer. This project highlighted her ability to take on multiple roles behind the camera.

Kader Khan was widely celebrated for his comedy roles in the 90s, but his writing skills were equally impressive. He penned scripts for several successful films, including ‘Coolie’, ‘Toofan’, ‘Agneepath’, ‘Yaarana’, and ‘Mahaguru’. His contribution to ‘Satte Pe Satta’ further demonstrated his deep understanding of storytelling. Over the years, he became one of Bollywood’s most respected dialogue and scriptwriters. His work continues to be remembered for its wit and emotional depth.

Sunny Deol’s 1990 film ‘Ghayal’ became a major hit, establishing him as a powerful action star. Years later, he returned with ‘Ghayal Once Again’, taking on multiple responsibilities in the project. In addition to acting and directing, Sunny also co-wrote the film’s plot with the writing team. His involvement at every stage highlighted his commitment to the story and its characters. The film reinforced his ability to balance performance with behind-the-scenes creativity.

Vineet Kumar Singh gained recognition for his impressive acting in films like ‘Ugly’ and ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’. Expanding his skill set, he co-wrote Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Mukkabaaz’, a sports action drama. He also starred as the lead, bringing authenticity to the character through his training and preparation. The film was well-received for its raw storytelling and strong performances. Vineet’s contribution as both actor and writer showcased his dedication to impactful cinema.

Few people know that Jaya Bachchan was the scriptwriter behind ‘Shahenshah’, a film that played a crucial role in reviving Amitabh Bachchan’s career. Her narrative laid the foundation for one of his most iconic roles. The screenplay was later completed by Inder Raj Anand, adding further structure to the story. The film became a memorable part of Bollywood’s action-drama era. Jaya’s contribution remains an important chapter in the film’s success story.

Sumeet Vyas rose to fame with ‘Permanent Roommates’ and soon expanded his talents into writing. He went on to write the second season of ‘TVF Tripling’, which further showcased his storytelling skills. His writing journey continued when he co-wrote Vicky Kaushal’s digital release ‘Love Per Square Foot’. The film received appreciation for its relatable themes and charming treatment. Sumeet’s work behind the script proved that his creativity extends well beyond acting.