Paani

Though never fully realized on screen, Shekhar Kapur's "Paani" occupies a unique and significant place in his filmography and is considered a quintessential unmade masterpiece. Set in a dystopian future Mumbai, the film envisioned a stark world where water is the ultimate commodity, fiercely controlled by the powerful Upper City while the deprived Lower City struggles for survival. This ambitious sci-fi epic would have perfectly showcased Kapur's signature blend of grand cinematic vision, socio-political commentary, and exploration of human resilience against systemic oppression, making it a natural fit among his best, even if only in concept. The sheer scope and prescient themes of "Paani" alone position it as a defining project for Kapur, tackling global issues like resource scarcity, class warfare, and corporate control with a visionary eye that few directors possess. Had it come to fruition, its narrative depth and philosophical inquiries would have undoubtedly solidified Kapur's reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to challenge audiences with profound questions about society's future. Its very legend as an almost-film, a testament to Kapur's audacious creative spirit and his pursuit of groundbreaking cinema, ensures its inclusion among the most impactful – and tragically unrealized – entries in his distinguished oeuvre.