"That's how strong the film's emotional impact is for the audience, and that's how close I feel to this troubled project. Among my films, 'Water' has given me maximum satisfaction, and I feel that's how it's going to be for the audience. What they're reacting to is the theme of humanism. I think the film really hits you where it hurts the most."

Water will be distributed worldwide by Fox Searchlight Pictures. "It has been closed in every territory, except India. I don't know what's happening there. It's entirely up to Ajay Virmani, who owns the Indian rights. It would be such a pity if 'Water' gets left behind in the country of its origin when it releases worldwide in November."

Right now, "Water" has taken off in most unexpected ways. "The screening at the Toronto festival was the first. And it was a dream come true for me...It can only get better now. My next project 'Kamagata Maru' will have to wait for at least two months. Let me enjoy the 'Water' experience right now."