Vidya Balan’s Tumhari Sulu turned seven today (November 17). Directed by Suresh Triveni, the film co-starred Neha Dhupia and Manav Kaul. On its anniversary, Zoom spoke to Suresh who hoped to bring more such characters to life through his work. Excerpts from the interview:

Does it feel like seven years? Seven years have passed like one week in the Hindi film industry. It's been that fast. And yeah, it changed my life. In what way? Tumhari Sulu is one film that I think still comes back to me. Be it in the form of songs, be it in terms of audience feedback, be it in terms of referencing, all of it. That film was just about all things coming together. Love and gratitude? Loads of it. It's just a sweet memory that can never, ever, ever, ever leave me and it's made me whatever little I am today. I owe it to Vidya Balan and her dedication and how she brought Sulu alive. I hope I'm able to bring more Sulu's alive in life. You later directed Vidya in the excellent Jalsa. Which of the two films and performances are closer to your heart? That’s not fair!! Both are different genres and have extremely different characters. For me, both remain a piece of my heart. Tumhari Sulu is the reason I could make Jalsa. Tumhari Sulu came at a time when lighthearted films were not taken seriously. Would you say your film was a game-changer?I won’t take any claim for Tumhari Sulu being a game changer but yes it was a dark horse that year. We were a small film. But yes, it brought back the belief of female protagonists back into the industry. What are you working on now? I am shooting Subedaar with Anil Kapoor currently. I can’t talk much about it now. But it’s a story of a veteran who once fought for the country and now has to protect his home. It is a complete departure from what I’ve done so far. I am enjoying it.