Mohammed Nagaman Lateef says, “One of the biggest learnings from Ekta ma’am is fearlessness in storytelling”!

Mohammed Nagaman Lateef, Talent Head leading the entire Hoonur department across Balaji Motion Pictures, Balaji Telefilms and Balaji Digital, continues to play a crucial role in shaping talent pipelines within the entertainment industry
. Under his leadership, Hoonur has already facilitated casting for major shows, including Swati Sharma for Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, and Sahil Uppal for Naagin 7 along with top contestants of The 50 reality TV show like Ridhi Dogra, Shiv Thakre and Urvashi Dholakia.

Lateef, who has been closely associated with #EktaKapoor for several years, opened up about his journey, learnings, and experiences of working with one of the most influential creators in the Indian entertainment space.

Reflecting on how his professional relationship with Ekta Kapoor began, Lateef shared, “My association with Ekta ma’am started at a time when I was deeply exploring the talent ecosystem. What struck me instantly was her sharp instinct and clarity. She doesn’t just see what a person is—she sees what they can become. That perspective stayed with me.”

Speaking about the lessons he has learned over the years, he said, “One of the biggest learnings from Ekta ma’am is fearlessness in storytelling. She has an incredible ability to trust her gut, even when the odds seem uncertain. I’ve also learned the importance of consistency and discipline—success doesn’t come from one idea, it comes from constantly evolving.”

Sharing a memorable experience, Lateef recalled, “There have been many, but one moment that stands out is during the casting of The 50. We were exploring some unconventional choices, and it was an exciting phase of creative discovery. Ekta ma’am was absolutely clear about her vision and stood by those decisions. Eventually, it turned out to be a massive success. Watching that entire process unfold reinforced my belief in backing talent beyond the obvious and trusting creative instincts.”

On what sets Ekta Kapoor apart as a creator, he explained, “Her understanding of the audience is unmatched. She knows how to tap into emotions that resonate across generations. At the same time, she’s always ahead of the curve, whether it’s television or OTT. That balance of mass appeal and innovation is rare.”

Elaborating on how this association has shaped his own initiatives, including the International Iconic Awards, Lateef added, “Working with Ekta ma’am has influenced me to think bigger and more inclusively. It’s not just about recognizing established names but also about creating a platform where emerging talent feels seen and valued. That philosophy comes directly from her approach to nurturing talent.”

By Keerti Kadam