Vibhu Virender Puri is excited about making his direc torial Hawaizaada, debut which with features Ayushmann Khurrana, Mithun Chakraborty and Pallavi Sharda.

Inspired by events that occurred in history, the film tells the fictional story of a young Indian scientist who is believed to have flown the world's first aircraft. While Ayushmann plays the role of Shivi, the scientist, Mithun plays his mentor.

What makes the movie interesting is that it is a fantasy interwoven with real events. The director was certain that he wanted to introduce the concept of 'magical realism' to the audience. Vibhu, who has previously assisted Sanjay Leela Bhansali on some of his films, is influenced by his mentor and believes in larger-than-life cinema.

Says Vibhu, “It took me almost five years to put my vision on the big screen. It wouldn't have been possible without the dedicated team of 3,000 technicians who devoted two years to this project.“

Appreciating his protégé, Bhansali says, “Right when he assisted me on Saawariya, I could see that he has the potential to be a good filmmaker. I'm glad he got the opportunity to express what is in his mind and put it on the big screen.“

Says producer Rajesh Banga, “Recreating Bombay of 1895 for the film has been a magical journey .The best part was working with Vibhu and I hope he will become an important figure in Indian cinema.“

Hawaizaada, presented by Reliance Entertainment and produced by Trilogic Digital Media Limited and Film Farmers Motion Picture Company, releases January 30.