'Hope 'Gippi' proves Dharma can make small-budget films'

Director Karan Malhotra, who made his debut with Dharma Productions' "Agneepath(2012)" last year, hopes "Gippi" proves that Karan Johar's banner can even make good quality small-budget films.

Karan Johar is known for his mega-budget, star studded, glossy and larger than life dramas like "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai", "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham", "Kal Ho Naa Ho", "My Name Is Khan", among others.

"Honestly speaking, it's ('Gippi') going to be a new experience for all of us because Dharma has never made such a film. We hope this one proves Dharma can also do small-budget films, but at the same time films that have content," Karan said here Tuesday at a special screening of "Gippi".

Directed by debutant Sonam Nair, "Gippi" stars Riya Vij in the lead role, while Divya Dutta plays her mother. The film hits theatres Friday.

Karan said the female lead for his "Shuddhi" has not been finalised yet.

"The actress for 'Shuddhi' has not been finalised yet. Hrithik Roshan has been finalised as male lead, but as soon as the actress is finalised, we will announce her name. But irrespective of that, we will start the shooting by November this year," Karan said.