Mehta doesn't have any regrets that the film couldn't be made in Varanasi. "Water" ran into trouble when she tried to shoot it in Varanasi in 1999. Hindu rightwing activists violently opposed the film by burning the sets. The director was forced to shelve it and she later shot the movie in Sri Lanka.

"I feel the film would've been different in texture if it was shot in Varanasi. However, finally I'm glad I made it in Sri Lanka. My vision was tranquil and comfortable.

"I didn't have to have tea with dozens of politicians just to ensure my next day's shooting," remarks Mehta, alluding to the political interference that finally stopped "Water" in Varanasi.