"I didn't feel any anger when the film was shut down. What happened with 'Water' was unfortunate. I felt bewilderment and a sense of loss. When I re-launched 'Water' it was without any bewilderment. I don't think India was responsible for what happened with 'Water'. It was a particular political group who raised objection. But I never for a second felt that the film would be abandoned."

"Water" completes Mehta's trilogy of "Fire" (1996) and "Earth" (1998). And all of them were controversial.

"I chose such subjects because I am a storyteller and I feel that filmmaking is a difficult process. When I spend two years making a film, I feel I should make something meaningful. 'Water' is one of the most important films of my career."

Abraham, who underwent rigorous training for the film, learned to play flute and Sanskrit language for his role. The media got a glimpse of his hard work when he recited scriptures in Sanskrit from 'Meghdoot' on Mehta's behest.

When asked what inspired her to make a film on widows, Mehta said: "When I was shooting for Krishanmurthy 11 years ago in Varanasi I got an opportunity to meet these widows for the first time. When I saw the 'ashrams' there I was deeply moved and decided that one day I will make a film on these widows. So, it is the widows of Varanasi who inspired me to make the film."