New Delhi, Oct 28 (NationPress) Like a phoenix that emerges from the ashes, Milap Zaveri has re-entered the limelight with Ek Deewane ki Deewaniyat. After a nearly four-year dry spell following the lackluster reception of Satyamev Jayate 2, the filmmaker and writer has made a striking return, expressing that success feels "sweeter after the bitterness of failure."

Milap is known for directing films like the Satyamev Jayate series, Marjavaan, and Mastizaade. He has also written numerous hits, including Kaante, Housefull, Ek Villain, and Shootout at Wadala, among others.

Taking full responsibility for his struggles, Milap shared with IANS, "I genuinely don’t blame anyone for that lean period in my career. I accept my part in it. I made a film that didn’t perform well, Satyamev Jayate 2. The film just didn’t connect with the audience."

He further elaborated on the disappointment, saying, "It’s understandable that people lost faith in me, as there were high expectations for that film. When it failed to meet those hopes, it was natural for audiences to feel disillusioned with me."

Reflecting on the doubts others had about his ability to succeed again, Milap remarked, "Many believed I wouldn’t bounce back. There was a span of three to three and a half years with minimal work. I honestly never thought I would experience this moment again — discussing a superhit film I directed that is now out."

"Those were challenging times," he admitted.

"I must express my gratitude to my wife, Gauri, my son, my in-laws, my parents, friends like Shaad Randhawa, who stars in Ek Deewane ki Deewaniyat, and my best friends Ritesh Deshmukh and Genelia, who have all been my pillars of support."

He stated that the success of Ek Deewane ki Deewaniyat is particularly sweet due to the bitter experiences of failure that preceded it.

"I’m thankful for the opportunity provided by Harshvardhan Rane, Sonam Bajwa, Anshul Garg, and Raghav Sharma. This film is a hit, rapidly heading towards being a blockbuster, and it feels wonderful," he said.

Essentially, is he a phoenix rising from the ashes?

"Absolutely! People are now telling me, ‘Can you please stop ending up like ashes every time?’"

Milap added, "This has happened before. My first film, Jaane Kya Sa Hoga, didn’t succeed. However, I bounced back with Shootout at Wadala, Grand Masti, Ek Villain, and Main Tera Hero as a writer."

"Then, my film Mastizaade didn’t succeed, and I returned with Satyamev Jayate and Marjaavaan. After Satyamev Jayate 2 faltered, I’m back again with Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat. I also have Masti 4 and Tera Yaar Hoon Main on the horizon. I truly hope the phoenix remains in this form for good."