Actor-writer-director Saurabh Shukla surfaces with his new directorial assignment RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? after a hiatus. After almost five years, to be precise. "I was disheartened after MUDDA and CHEHRAA. I didn't want to make movies just for the heck of it. But I will make up for the lost time by releasing three movies back to back, starting with RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI?," Saurabh smiles.

Just recently, RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? was honoured at the South Asian International Film Festival in New York. "I was thrilled," he doesn't hide his feelings, but is quick to add, "I wish to clarify, RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? is not a 'festival film'. It's a film that the audience of today can relate to instantly. In fact, the term 'festival film' doesn't exist anymore. Even hardcore commercial films are showcased at distinguished festivals."

Reportedly, there are similarities between RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? and THE HANGOVER. "The two films are poles apart. I'd also like to clarify that I started RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? much before THE HANGOVER was made. In fact, there's an interesting story behind RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI?. The seeds of this film were sown at a party that I attended long back. I was feeling terribly bored and kept staring at people aimlessly. The next morning, I narrated the episode to Rajat [Kapoor], who suggested that I write a story revolving around a party. That's how the story of RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? took shape," Saurabh states.

Incidentally, RAAT GAYI, BAAT GAYI? will be the last release of his year. The makers plan to release the film on Thursday, December 31.