When I had read about Shyam Benegal directing a movie with Shreyas Talpade in the lead, it was called Madhav Ka Sajjanpur. And I wonder why the title was anglicized later to Welcome to Sajjanpur when the story is perceived and described through a village erudite called Madhav. And indeed traces of the original title still remain on the censor board certification displayed before the movie starts if you pay attention.
bollywood
Taare Zameen Par (2007)
There cannot be a perfect culmination to my long Christmas break then watching Taare Zameen Par (TZP) in the theatre. Before I begin talking about the movie itself, I must first congratulate Aamir Khan who has taken a grave risk (as always) by opting to produce, direct and act in what seems to be a complete non-commercial storyline. In other words, to a lay man this project would have looked good in a book or a short story somewhere in a children’s magazine. But it only proves that Aamir is (who else?) the only commercial actor in the Hindi film industry in a class of his own who believes in making meaningful cinema — one you can easily relate yourself with.
Aamir Khan Goes Online
The computer at my place has been inaccessible for the past 5 days because my house is undergoing some renovation work as we speak. The flying dust and flowing sweat has become unbearable for me. On the other hand, the new office I have just shifted to is fun to work in. I am realising the benefits of the peace and tranquility around me not to mention the wide open spaces and brightness as well. Anyway just to tell you that I like to write only when I have something interesting to share with the rest of the world. So here’s something worthwhile now.
As you’d know, Aamir Khan has become a director with his forthcoming venture Taare Zameen Par (TZP) and he has launched the movie website last night. TZP is produced by Aamir himself and it is a story that deals with a dyslexic kid being played by Darsheel Safary. Watch the curtain raiser which I think is classy — in true Aamir style.
I also admired Aamir’s thoughts on his previous blog. He has now launched his official website/blog which appears to be the first instance of a bollywood actor posting some of his frank opinions online. There’s also a chat application so one can have a 1-1 session with Aamir Khan himself! All my best wishes are with Aamir and I wish Taare Zameen Par becomes a landmark movie in Indian cinema.
Quick Links
Aamir Khan’s Website: www.aamirkhan.com
Taare Zameen Par (Official Website): www.taarezameenpar.com
At the KK Concert
This was truly the most happening event of yesterday. I had got passes to the ‘KK Sensational Nite’ concert organized by TCS along with it’s social service foundation called Maitree. The event was held at the Shanmukhananda Hall at King’s Circle in Mumbai, attended by young TCSers who rocked the house completely.
KK sang a few of his hits from his album Pal including Yaaron, Aap Ki Dua and (of course) Pal. Then he moved onto sing his film songs. Just a small list in random order –
• Bardhasht Nahi Kar Sakta (Humraaz),
• Tadap Tadap (Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam),
• Dus Bahane (Dus),
• Kya Mujhe Pyar Hai (Woh Lamhe),
• Tu Aashiqui Hai (Jhankar Beats),
• O Humdum Suniyo Re (Saathiya),
• It’s the Time to Disco (Kal Ho Naa Ho),
• Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe (Dil Chahta Hai),
• Sach Keh Raha Hai Deewana (Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein),
• Awarapan Banjarapan (Jism)
• Tu Hi Meri Shab Hai (Gangster) etc. etc.
Cheeni Kum (2007)
True to its name, this is no sugary-candy-floss romance. Cheeni Kum (Less Sugar) is a recipe that splices a legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan with the youthfulness of Tabu to create a magical flavor. This is Bachchan’s finest attempt at breaking away from his cliched dramatics.