Imtiaz Ali Reveals Inspiration Behind Iconic Breakup Party Scene in ‘Love Aaj Kal’
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali recently opened up about the inspiration behind the emotional breakup party scene in his 2009 film Love Aaj Kal, which starred Deepika Padukone and Saif Ali Khan.

Mumbai: Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali recently opened up about the inspiration behind the emotional breakup party scene in his 2009 film Love Aaj Kal, which starred Deepika Padukone and Saif Ali Khan. During an appearance on Komal Nahta’s Game Changers podcast, Ali shared a personal anecdote that influenced one of the most iconic moments in the film.
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Personal Experience Inspired Breakup Party Scene in ‘Love Aaj Kal’
Imtiaz Ali revealed that the idea for the emotional breakup party scene came from an event he witnessed during his college days. The director recalled attending a breakup party thrown by two seniors who had just ended their relationship. He said, “I had attended a breakup party in college. Two seniors broke up; they conducted a party. So, art follows life, which follows art. There’s a symbiotic relationship between art and society. Both are necessary for growth.”
This real-life inspiration led to the now-famous scene in Love Aaj Kal, where Deepika Padukone and Saif Ali Khan’s characters experience an emotionally charged breakup at a party, making it one of the most memorable moments in modern Hindi cinema.
Art and Society: A Constant Dialogue
Imtiaz Ali also touched upon the broader relationship between art and society during the podcast. He emphasized how both are constantly in dialogue, influencing and shaping each other. According to Ali, “Art and society are always in dialogue, with each continuously influencing the other. Both are essential for growth,” underlining the importance of art in reflecting societal changes.
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Imtiaz Ali Hints at Potential ‘Rockstar’ Sequel
In addition to discussing Love Aaj Kal, Imtiaz Ali teased the possibility of a sequel to his popular film Rockstar (2011). He expressed, “Never say never. Ho sakta hai ki koi idea aa jaaye aur mujhe lage ki ye kahani, as a Rockstar Part 2 ya Rockstar thought, it might be nice. Kabhi aisa hota hai ke koi wild thought Rockstar ko leke aa jaaye,” suggesting that an idea for a Rockstar sequel could eventually emerge.
Imtiaz Ali’s insights into the emotional depth of his films and his creative process continue to resonate with audiences, highlighting his unique ability to blend personal experiences with cinematic storytelling.