OTT Hitmaker Director Santosh Singh Gets Candid About His Theatrical Debut ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’ and Working With Vikrant Massey & Shanaya Kapoor

As his romantic drama Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan gears up for a theatrical release on July 11, acclaimed OTT director Santosh Singh opens up about stepping into cinema, his unique casting choices, and navigating Bollywood’s ever-evolving audience expectations. In a heartfelt conversation, Singh shares insights on the film, debutante Shanaya Kapoor, and why Vikrant Massey continues to be his go-to leading man.

Excerpts from the interview:

*Q: Tell us about Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. What can audiences expect from this story?*
Santosh Singh:
The audience can expect love in its most innocent, unfiltered form — a connection that transcends appearances. The film is tender and heartfelt, with beautiful performances and a soulful soundtrack by Vishal Mishra. It’s an old-school love story, told with a lot of honesty.

*Q: Shanaya Kapoor makes her debut in this film. Was that added pressure, especially since it’s your theatrical debut too?*
Santosh Singh:
Yes, there was an added responsibility. But I didn’t see it as pressure — more like an opportunity to create something honest. Shanaya came in with sincerity and a strong work ethic. She was open, eager to learn, and willing to put in the hard work. Directing her was a smooth and fulfilling experience.

*Q: How do you view Vikrant Massey’s evolution as an actor?*
Santosh Singh:
He’s always been instinctive and honest, but with time, there’s even more depth, control, and quiet confidence in how he approaches a role. In Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, Vikrant brought so much nuance — even his silences say a lot. It’s a very layered performance.

*Q: Were Vikrant and Shanaya always your first choices for the roles?*
Santosh Singh:
Vikrant was already on board. With Shanaya, it felt like destiny. We were looking for a fresh face, and a casting director friend shared an old audition tape of hers. There was something raw and vulnerable in it that just felt right for the character. She prepared thoroughly and did multiple workshops. She truly earned this role.

*Q: In an era dominated by thrillers and mystery, what makes this love story relevant today?*
Santosh Singh:
I think we’ve gotten so caught up in plot-heavy content that we’ve stopped telling simple love stories. But when done right, a love story can move you. This film is a reminder of that emotional connection — something we all long for deep down.

*Q: Series or film — which format gives you more creative freedom?*
Santosh Singh:
A series gives you time to dig deep, explore characters, and experiment with subplots. A film, on the other hand, is more intense and focused. Honestly, I’m happy as long as I’m telling a story I believe in.

*Q: Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan is based on Ruskin Bond’s short story The Eyes Have It. What was it like adapting his work?*
Santosh Singh:
It was an absolute joy. The original story is just six pages long, so we used it as a base and built our narrative around it. I grew up reading Ruskin Bond, so it felt personal. I hope we’ve done justice to his spirit.

*Q: Shanaya is a star kid. How did you navigate the pressures and trolling that come with launching a newcomer from a film family?*
Santosh Singh:
Of course, there’s pressure. Today, people are quick to judge, especially online. But I strongly believe everyone deserves a fair shot. Shanaya gave this film her all. She did four months of workshops, worked with acting coaches, and sent us videos after every rehearsal. She earned this role with merit, not just her last name.

*Q: Do you think the negativity around star kids affects how films like Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan are received?*
Santosh Singh:
Definitely. Look at Loveyapa. It didn’t do well, and I honestly feel it was because of the hate around the cast. People judge without even watching the film. That’s not fair. Let the work speak first. Everyone — regardless of their background — deserves that chance.

*Q: The pairing of Vikrant and Shanaya drew some criticism due to their age gap. Your thoughts?*
Santosh Singh:
People will always react. But once they watch the film, they’ll understand why this pairing works. It’s what the story needed. They complement each other beautifully on screen. It’s unconventional, but that’s exactly what makes it compelling.

*Q: What makes Vikrant such a relatable romantic hero in your eyes?*
Santosh Singh:
What’s interesting is that people don’t usually see him as a romantic lead. But he’s incredibly natural in love stories. He doesn’t “act” like a hero — he just is. That relatability is what draws the audience in. You see a bit of yourself in him.

Q: What makes Vikrant such a relatable romantic hero in your eyes?
Santosh Singh:
What’s interesting is that people don’t usually see him as a romantic lead. But he’s incredibly natural in love stories. He doesn’t “act” like a hero — he just is. That relatability is what draws the audience in. You see a bit of yourself in him.

Q: What’s next for you after this?
Santosh Singh:
I’m currently reading two very different scripts — a gritty geopolitical drama and a full-blown comedy. I want to explore as many genres as I can. Storytelling is about constant reinvention.

Q: Finally, what would you say to audiences waiting to watch Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan?
Santosh Singh:
Come with an open heart. Let the film take you back to a time when love was simple, pure, and soulful. That’s what we’ve tried to capture.