What about Saadat Hasan Manto intrigued you to make a biopic?
It was his free spirit and his courage to stand up against orthodoxy. I was struck by his simple, yet profound narratives and the way he captured the people, politics and times he lived in. He wrote as he saw and as he felt, without dilution, and with empathy for his characters. He was irreverent and had an irrepressible desire to poke a finger in the eye of the establishment, often with sharp humour. For years, I had thought of making a film on Manto's short stories, even before my directorial debut, Firaaq [2008]. In 2012, when I delved deeper into his essays, they helped the idea expand beyond his stories. It took me five years to feel equipped, both emotionally and creatively, to tell his story. 

There is a strong controversial vein in his writings. Did you feel the pressure to play it safe?
I have always felt connected to Manto's fearlessness and concern for the human condition. No part of human existence remained untouched or taboo for him no matter how controversial. So, there was no question of playing safe. Almost 71 years later, we should be able to celebrate him. 
Art can have a profound impact and create social change. Manto's writings provoke, stir and unsettle audiences. Hopefully, the film,
too, will do that. But this can happen in a subtle manner. It doesn't have to be overt for it to be a compelling story.