"Socha Na Tha" may have been stumped due to bad timing for release, but debutant director Imtiaz Ali has arrived.

The unassuming director is suddenly finding himself flooded with offers to direct films with some of the best banners in the industry.

Subhash Ghai recently signed him to direct a film for Mukta Arts, and now Sahara One has accepted to produce his new movie starring Sunny Deol.

"There have been quite a few producers who have approached me in the past fortnight. It is definitely very encouraging to know that all of them liked my work in 'Socha...'," Ali said.

But if there is anything that Ali would like to do for the Deols right now, it is to appeal to students to find time to watch 'Socha...' despite the exam pressure.

"The film is a must-see for all the youngsters. If they cannot catch it now, they should ensure that they see it after the exams," he says.