Shadab Khan’s journey to directing looks like something out of a film itself. He started 30 years ago in 1996 as an assistant editor, then moved through television as a production assistant and assistant director. In 2000, he stumbled into modelling almost by accident, and it became one of the most beautiful phases of his life. Over the next decade, he became the face of brands like Raymond, Gillette, Siyaram, and Brylcreem, walked ramps for top designers, and shot thousands of catalogues.
But the camera behind the scenes called louder. After a stint in acting, Khan realised his deeper connection was with storytelling as a whole. That shift led him to directing. He’s now known for Delhi 47 KM, B A Pass 2, and the internationally acclaimed Rabia and Olivia, which earned 13 global awards and was ranked among the Top 30 Hollywood films of the year. His latest feature, Adhura Khwaab, produced under Side Hero Entertainment, has already picked up 11 international awards for its emotional depth and lyrical storytelling.
When asked whether bold and real content connects with Gen Z, Khan doesn’t hesitate.
“Absolutely. Today’s generation connects strongly with authenticity. Gen Z doesn’t want artificial perfection — they want stories that feel honest, layered, emotional, and relatable.”
For Khan, OTT platforms are the reason that kind of storytelling is even possible. “OTT platforms have changed storytelling completely by giving creators the freedom to explore subjects that traditional formats were often hesitant about.”
But he’s quick to draw a line between bold and empty provocation. “Bold content works only when it carries emotional truth. Audiences today are intelligent; they can immediately sense whether something is genuine or created only for shock value.”
What Gen Z responds to, he says, is humanity on screen. “Real characters, flawed emotions, and human vulnerability are what truly connect with people now, and I think that’s a very positive change for storytelling.”
“Direction gave me the space to express stories with maturity and vision. Coming from a small town and reaching a stage where my work received Oscar consideration has truly been a blessed and humbling journey,” he ends.
