Sajid Ali: A Journey from Loyola School Jamshedpur to Bollywood–Exclusive Interview

Sajid Ali is a renowned Bollywood film director and screenwriter, best known for his innovative storytelling and captivating cinematic style. A graduate of Loyola School, his journey from a schoolboy with a passion for theater to a respected name in the film industry is both inspiring and remarkable. Sajid began his career in Bollywood by co-writing the successful romantic comedy-drama “Cocktail” alongside his brother, the acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali. He made his directorial debut in 2018 with the romantic drama “Laila Majnu,” which showcased his unique vision and flair for narrating intense, emotional stories. His recent film, “Wo Bhi Din The,” which premiered on an OTT platform, received widespread acclaim for its fresh take on the coming-of-age genre. Known for his deep connection to his roots and his ability to weave meaningful narratives, Sajid Ali continues to make significant contributions to Indian cinema.

 Parvinder Bhatia

Welcome, Sajid! It’s great to have you here with us at Loyola School. How does it feel to be back at your alma mater?

Thank you so much! It feels incredible to be back. Loyola School holds a very special place in my heart. This school laid the foundation of my values and ethics, which have been pivotal in my journey in the film industry. When I joined Loyola School Fr. Eric Cassel, was the principal. Later came Father Pius Fernandes. I have vivid memories of my school days and I cherish them the most.

You mentioned in your address that your first skit at Loyola in 2003 was a turning point for you. Could you tell us more about that experience?

Absolutely. The skit was organized to honor our then-Principal, Father Pius Fernandes, and it was based on the Domicile issue. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. That performance was a defining moment for me. It made me realize my passion for storytelling and the power of expressing emotions through a narrative. It was here that I discovered my love for the arts. Even my brother Arif Ali was part of the skit.

How did your time at Loyola influence your career in filmmaking?

Loyola School was instrumental in shaping my personality and career. The school not only focused on academics but also on extracurricular activities, which were crucial in my development. I participated in various activities that honed my skills and helped me discover my talent. When I moved to Mumbai, I realized how important these experiences were. They gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams in filmmaking. Father Pius, in particular, has been a guiding force throughout my journey.

Your latest film, *Wo Bhi Din The*, was set in Loyola School. Could you share more about your decision to choose this setting?

Sure! *Wo Bhi Din The* is very close to my heart, and setting it in Loyola was a way of paying tribute to the place that shaped me. The school has been a significant part of my life, and I wanted to capture the essence of its values and spirit in the film. Loyola represents more than just a school; it’s a beacon of holistic education, nurturing not just academic excellence but also character and creativity. I wanted to bring that to the screen.

How has the school changed since your time here?

The infrastructure has certainly evolved, and there are many new additions. However, the core values and ethos of the school remain unchanged. Loyola continues to foster an environment of holistic education, focusing on both intellectual and moral growth. It’s wonderful to see that despite the changes, the heart of Loyola remains the same.

Looking back at your journey from a Loyola schoolboy to a filmmaker in Bollywood, what advice would you give to the students here today?

Sajid Ali: My advice would be to embrace the values and lessons that Loyola imparts. I have a daughter studying in Mumbai but I am surprised to see the school offers limited activities. I would ask the students in Jamshedpur to focus on both your academics and extracurricular activities because they play a crucial role in shaping who you are. Be open to learning, take risks, and don’t be afraid to pursue your passions. Remember, it’s the values you carry from here that will guide you throughout your life. Stay true to them, and success will follow.