/> David Dhawan whose latest film Partner is being released on July 20, is looking at a very exciting year ahead.

"And not just because I'm already planning ahead with Salman and Govinda. There's more reason for me to be happy," says the ever-exuberant director.

"Next year I'm launching my elder son Rohit who's 23, as an independent director."

Rohit who studied cinema at NYU, joined his dad a couple of years ago. "The entire young look in Mujhse Shadi Karogi and Maine Pyar Kyun Kiya were decided by my son. And now in Partner he has worked shoulder-to-shoulder with me as an associate director. You can see the difference in the film. To have your son work with you is such a blessing. I feel a load off my back."

Another filmy empire ready to strike, a la the Barjatyas and Chopras?

Rohit introduced his father to a new style of filmmaking. And also directed a very special f-x portion in Partner on behalf of his dad.

"And now Rohit will turn an idependent director with a film that will surprise you," promises the proud papa. "It'll be nothing like what I've done. Rohit won't make a comedy. He'll make a romantic film. He's scripting it right now."

Dhawan Jr's film is expected to go on the floors mid-2008.