tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88652548296673912402024-03-13T23:24:56.439-07:00Transcripts-2OF [Shankar,
Shabana Azmi,
Nandita Das,
Shyam Benegal,
Mahesh Bhatt,
Prakash Jha,
Tarun Tejpal ,
Jagmohan Mundhra ,
Aamir Khan ,
M Night Shyamalan ]EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-17847804394561423392007-03-09T11:56:00.009-08:002007-03-09T12:24:45.952-08:00Shankar'Whatever affects my mind gets reflected in my films'<br />Whizkid director Shankar dropped his guard when he appeared on Rediff Chat. The result? A chat that was more like a conversation between him and his legion of fans, about him and his films, rather than just a Q & A session. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:1 IST) <br />Good evening, everyone. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Mehta (Tue Dec 28 1999 7:59 IST) <br />Do you agree that the Hindi version of Jeans suffered because of the publicity which did not give the true picture of the film, paintiung it as a youthful romace when infact it was a comedy of twin proportions? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:9 IST) <br />Mehta: So many people from Bombay also said the same thing. The important aspect of the film was not highlighted, yes. But I really couldn't find the real reason because some remake films from Tamil do well and some do not. Some dubbed versions do well and some do not. It is vice versa from Hindi also. Nayakan did not do well in Hindi but Thevar Magan did well. Yes, Jeans did not do well. If something is there in the film, it will run definitely. But It did well all over south India. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />balajiii (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:3 IST) <br />Vanakkam Shankar <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:11 IST) <br />balaji: Vanakkam Balaji! Thanks for Tamil vanakkam! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Congress (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:5 IST) <br />Shankar, Why did'nt Jeans win the Oscars? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:18 IST) <br />congress: What can you do, Congress? Somebody else did a better job than me (Rhere may be some politics, 'Congress'!?)! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Madhavan (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:14 IST) <br />Shanker, you have made 2 love movies, and there are literally hundreds of love movies made in Tamil every year. Yet we always get the same story (including your movies) where hero and heroine fall in love face an obscacle (parents). Why is it so hard for filmmakers to come up with a different love story? I know if the directors spend some time thinking they can come up with one. So why don't they, instead of recycling the same old story? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:20 IST) <br />Madhavan: Have you seen my new film Mudalvan? The chief-minister-for-one-day story is, I am sure, a new concept which nobody has done before. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />balajiii (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:13 IST) <br />Padalgalae illatha padam edukkum ennam ullatha..? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:22 IST) <br />balaji: Padalkale illathe padam pakkum ennam ungalukku ullatha? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />speilberg (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:20 IST) <br />Shankar do n't u think u can low make budget movies which win the heart & the box office (Fazil's varusham 16, kadalukku mariadai etc) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:30 IST) <br />Speilberg: Why are you worried about the budget? What is important to me is that people should enjoy my films. I am able to excite you people only because of the big budget. Otherwise, I would not have been able to give new concepts to Tamil cinema like the Muqqabal song, seven wonders, a big trafficjam (mudalvan) and a 76-year-old man's make-up for Kamal Haasan in Indian and double action excitement and the skeleton dance in Jeans, etc etc. With the big budget, you as the viewers are benefitted the most. If you people keep on asking me about big budgets, I will start showing cow dung, neem trees, same old places.... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />balajiii (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:10 IST) <br />Will plane hijack be the concept for your next film..? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:33 IST) <br />balaji: See, like you, the same idea might have crossed the minds of many people. So how can I make a film on the theme which flashes in the mind of many? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mani (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:32 IST) <br />Shankar why this anti-establishment angst in all ur movies, is it a reflection of ur early days or is it just a source of making a hit out of the movie <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:40 IST) <br />mani: It is defiitely a reflection of my experiences from my earlier days. Whatever I have seen, whatever I have heard, whatever I have suffered, whatever I have gone through, whatever affected my mind gets reflected in my films. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ruchi (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:37 IST) <br />According to rumours the dinosaur in Jeans was lifted from Jurrassic Park? Your Humble View, Sirji? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:43 IST) <br />Ruchi: Certainly not. It was Mr Venky's (the special effects supervisor) creation. The inspiration is from Jurassic Park. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rajia (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:37 IST) <br />I heard you are planning to make a mega movie in Hollywood Is it true Mr.Shankar <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:45 IST) <br />rajia: Yes, people are approaching me. But I have not yet made up my mind. I am waiting for a signal from my mind! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mani (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:37 IST) <br />Shankar hollywoodie kallaka oru thamizan vendamma (Manoj knight shyamalan a malayalee -The sixth sense) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:47 IST) <br />mani: Whether he is a Tamilian or a Malayalee, an Indian has achieved something in Hollywood. Be proud! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Madhavan (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:30 IST) <br />Shanker, you want your films to be send messages about corruption (which you should be applauded for). But the solutions always seems to be to beat corruption you have to kill people. This was the solution in Gentleman, Indian and Mudhalvan. Do you think this is a good message to send to the young people, instead of beat corruption with legal action? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:1 IST) <br />madhavan: If you go deep into my films, you will find that I try to kill corruption and not the villain! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mani (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:55 IST) <br />Shankar kaadalicha anubhavam unda <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:3 IST) <br />mani: Undu. Yeappa! Kalyanam aayiruchu. Ippa poyi inda kelvi ellam kelkaringe? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />kumar (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:43 IST) <br />hi, shankar! you are one among the heros in tamil film industry where people come to see the movie for the name of directors.But, I see in all your movies you are involving a old man & a political concept. are you affected by anyway on these two?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:5 IST) <br />kumar: That's a big 'blade!' are you ready to listen? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mani (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:44 IST) <br />thank u Shankar, is it possible to make a hit out of a goody goody movie in tamil (say the one's like hum apke hai kaun, Hum saath Saath Hain etc. where there is no villian no crime, yet we feel good after the movie) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:9 IST) <br />mani: Of course, you can. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rajia (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:6 IST) <br />Shankar why all your car numbers are 8. Because everybody say eight is no good, but you likes that <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:13 IST) <br />raji: I hate superstitions. That is why I have taken the number 8 deliberately! I wanted to find out whether the number 8 is really bad. But it did not do any harm to me. I am well-to-do! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ruchi (Tue Dec 28 1999 8:46 IST) <br />How are the Seven wonders of the world? Good? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:16 IST) <br />Ruchi: That was the most exciting experience of my life. It will remain with me forever. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mani (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:13 IST) <br />Thank U ! Is it true that Mudhalvan is a movie which got its inspiration from AP Chief minister Mr.Chandrababu Naidu <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:18 IST) <br />mani: No <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ruchii (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:17 IST) <br />Are you an Indian or Inthian, sirji? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:19 IST) <br />Ruchi: For Indians, I am an Indian and for Inthians, I am an Inthian! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mani (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:7 IST) <br />Shankar nice to hear U that! Would be seeing a Shankar+Rajni explosion on screen? When? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:20 IST) <br />Mani: WHEN?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mohan (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:14 IST) <br />hello shankar.. how long u planned for this mudhalvan story... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:23 IST) <br />Mohan: Six months. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shankar (Tue Dec 28 1999 9:29 IST) <br />I feel my experience is incomplete because we started late. But I have enjoyed talking to you people. I am sorry I could not answer all the questions. I hope our next chat will be a better experience! Bye and good night. Happy Millennium! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-90272598922804051802007-03-09T11:56:00.008-08:002007-03-09T12:22:46.104-08:00Shabana AzmiIntolerance is against the basic grain of Indian culture<br />The controversy surrounding Water refused to abate. Reporters had been chasing her with questions all day long and she was exhausted. Yet Shabana Azmi decided to spend her evening answering questions on Rediff Chat. And her answers, just like her, were hardhitting and straight to the point. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /> <br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:37 IST) <br />Hi everyone.... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nachiketa (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:35 IST) <br />Ms Azmi: HAve you shown the script to the UP government? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:39 IST) <br />Nachiketa: The procedure is that the film has to be first passed by the ministry of I&B at the centre. It is then suggested that the state government MAY BE consulted. However, the DM Varanasi has been given the script. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:38 IST) <br />Ms Azmi, as an artist, what affect do such incidences have on your creativity? Do you think the shoot will begin shortly? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:42 IST) <br />Kirti Sharma: I'm hopeful that we should be we should be able to start shooting by day after tomorrow. But the whole process of negoitiation is very draining. I have lost all the concentration that is required for an intense script like Water. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kersasp (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:42 IST) <br />Do you think these so-called defenders of Hinduism have really the interests of Hindusim at heart? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:43 IST) <br />Kerasap: Hinduism is a very tolerant, all embracing religion. By indulging in vandalism, the so-called custodians of Hindu religion are actually defiling it. Because vandalism has no place in Hinduism. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />smisra (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:40 IST) <br />Shabana-ji... when uneducated masses oppose the showing of critical movies or publishing of critical books, one frequent complaint they voice is that "you" are criticizing "our" culture, traditions, history, etc. In this complaint is inherent the feeling of "you" as outside the "us", as not sharing the same culture, and hence... not criticizing from within as perhaps a religious leader or guru would be allowed to do but criticizing from the outside. What do you think of this? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:47 IST) <br />Smisra: I'm not sure that the criticism of this script is based on any real feeling of injury, it seems more like an opportunity has been provided to force attention on people who have no other claim to fame. However, I do think that whenever you come out against social injustice, there are some people who become extra-sensitive. In a democracy everybody should have the right to express their views freely, even if it is pure fiction. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />shabani azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:43 IST) <br />Shabana ji , what is the greatest problem our country is facing today - probably "lesbianism" <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:49 IST) <br />shabani: The biggest problem our country is facing today is poverty, illiteracy and very poor access to health. But it is very worrying that to these problems is being added the problem of intolerance which is against the basic grain of Indian culture. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:46 IST) <br />I read in Rediff that over 110 crew members of the film are just hanging around in Varanasi -- what are the circumstances there. What is the attitude of the locals towards you. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:51 IST) <br />Kirti Verma: The local crowds are being hugely supportive, asking us to keep our chins up. Many women's organisations, cultural/student unions have come forward in our support and so we feel heartned that only a small section of people are creating deliberate mischief. But it is very painful to be housebound. I am just looking forward to starting the film. The crew, despite their disappointment, is solidly behind Deepa. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />shabani azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:48 IST) <br />Shabana ji , if you were offered a film condemning the triple talaq phenomenon in Islam would you do it ? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:52 IST) <br />Shabani: Most certainly. I have on record spoken out against triple talaq being unIslamic and leading to the oppression of Muslim women. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Hallowen (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:50 IST) <br />Ms Azmi: What you all gain by making such kind of films after all? By highlighting such issues does it make a difference to common man's life who does not have two meals to eat? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST) <br />Hallowen: Any process of art, whether literature or painting or film, uses its medium to create a climate of sensitivity in which it is possible for change to occur. Social attitudes cannot be changed only by legislation and that's why art can be used as an instrument of social change. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:52 IST) <br />Ms Azmi, can you elucidate on Deepa Mehta's trip to Delhi after the shooting was halted? What has happened since, what did Arun Jaitley tell her? Was he polite etc? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:56 IST) <br />Kirti Verma: Unfortunately, we are still in the dark but still hopeful that, since it was Arun Jaitely's ministry in the first place that gave us the clearance, he will make sure that the shooting proceeds immediately. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />shriram (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST) <br />You talk about "Freedom of Expression" what about ban on Nathuram Godse's play? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:56 IST) <br />Shriram: I had gone on record both to the press and in Parliament AGAINST the banning of Nathuram Godse. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />smisra (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST) <br />Shabana-ji: how would you react to an oppressive system that *was* part of a religiously sanctioned system. For example, suppose hypothetically that it was clear beyond doubt that triple-talaq was *not* un-Islamic, but it is obviously oppressive... how would you react then and how would you reconcile trying to defend the Islamic religion along with criticizing the particular practice supported by the religion? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:58 IST) <br />Smisra: In my view, personal laws of ALL religions discriminate against women in matters of inheritance, divorce, marriage and that is why we must work towards a uniform civil code based on GENDER JUSTICE. We need to cull out all the just and equitable laws of all religions to form a blueprint for a common civil code. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:54 IST) <br />So Ma'am how are you spending these days there? Reading, planning strategy, meeting people etc... How do you like Varanasi? It is such a historic city. Have you been to Sarnath? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:1 IST) <br />Kirti Verma: Varansi to me embodies the true spirit of India, it feels like it lives in several centuries simultaneously. The people of Varansi have been very kind and respectful when I've gone out shopping, etc. There is great respect for my father, Kafi Azmi, since he hails from Azamgarh. But I have been housebound since today, just when I was planning to go to Sarnath :-( <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Princess (Wed Feb 2 19100 6:58 IST) <br />ms azmi... do you think the protests are politically engineered, against you? after all, everyone knows u r virulently opposed to the bjp's politics.... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:2 IST) <br />Princess: The opposition to the film started much before people even knew that I was acting in the film. It will be unfair to say that I'm being discriminated against because I have different political views from the BJP. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kirti Verma (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:0 IST) <br />Ms Azmi, another very curious thing here is that none of the film fraternity seems to have come out in support of Water -- why is there such a lack of solidarity from among your kind? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:4 IST) <br />Kirti Verma: That's not true. Mahesh Bhatt, Shatrughan Sinha, Amit Khanna and Pahlaj Nihalani, on behalf of their organisations Producers Guild, etc, have come out strongly in our support. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aawara (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:9 IST) <br />Hi Shabanaji, what is the relevance of the film WATER in this millenium considering that it's a period film and whatever the sensitive issues it's touching. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:9 IST) <br />Awaara: Although much has happened in terms of women's progress in the last 50 years, nobody can deny that we have a long way to go. According to recent report edited by Martha Chen, the incidence of mortality in widows is 85 % MORE than in married women of the same age. Isn't that something we need to think about??? I invite you to go and visit some of the present widows' homes, not only in Benares but in all parts of India and then decide whether the custom of discriminating against them still exists or not. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Shabana Azmi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:9 IST) <br />Bye, everyone <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-67707706105638238802007-03-09T11:56:00.007-08:002007-03-09T12:21:15.880-08:00Nandita Das'If one closes one's eyes, do you really think the reality vanishes?'<br />Exteremley vivacious, full of life and a great sense of humour are just some of the admirable qualities that this young actress possesses. Even when the 'hot seat' got too hot, Nandita Das kept her cool and soon had everyone toeing the line. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:29 IST) <br />Hi, everybody! I'm here on the hot seat. Shoot your questions. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> coolmirchi (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:12 IST) <br />now what happens to water <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:32 IST) <br />Coolmirchi: Well, we are all keeping our fingers crossed and I suggest you do the same. Let's hope for the best! By tomorrow morning, you'll know the verdict. Is paar ya us paar! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />NanditaFan (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:33 IST) <br />Hi Nandita, I liked u r role in FIRE very much in which u come out a strong lady with clear choices/opinions about every aspect of u r life(of course, the sexual preferencetoo!). But in EARTH u were like many of those typical Hindi film heroines who r nothing but object of desire for the heroes. I DIDN'T like u one bit in EARTH. I like the attitude u projected in FIRE and that's Y I'm u r fan. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:33 IST) <br />NanditaFan: Thanks for being so frank! But, you know, sometimes one selects a film not just because of the role but because of what the film is trying to say. And if you believe in that, then you want to be part of the project. I have no regrets but thanks anyways. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />kss (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:33 IST) <br />nandita how u feel after cut the hair? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:36 IST) <br />kss: I think I went through all the possible emotions that one could have possibly gone through from nervousness to looking like a teaboy to now feeling quite libertated! I love touching my head, standing under the shower and by the way I'm saving a loot of WATER!!! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Prashant (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:34 IST) <br />Hi nandita.Don't you think Deepa Mehta has crossed a lot of boundries with her movies?Don't you think somethings are better kept unspoken? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:44 IST) <br />Prashant: If one closes one's eyes, do you really think the reality vanishes? I think it's time that we faced the truth around us and be more honest to oursleves and above all be courageous. After all, aren't films supposed to be a reflection or a slice of life? So, come on, be brave and encourage us to do films that have some meaning! Do you agree? Write back if you do! And if you don't, I'll understand :-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />shrm (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:43 IST) <br />Do you support ban on Satanic Veres, Nathuram Godse's play, Sixth Sacred Wound play on Christ ???????????? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:46 IST) <br />shrm: I am all for freedom of expression because I do not undermine the intelligence of the reader/audience. I'm sure they will decide what they want to see or what they like on their own. And maybe that will encourage more self-censorship instead of a second person wanting to decide for others everytime. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> Moonface (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:45 IST) <br />Hi Nandita, I think you really are a good actress. Can you imagine all your three film with Deepa Mehta met with some problems. by now you must have got used to thisor have you? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:52 IST) <br />Moonface: Just when I thought I had got used to it, BINGO!!! They are trying stop us from even beginning our shoot. Now that's something I'm definitely not used to, it's like banning a book before it's even written. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />himanshu (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:51 IST) <br />Ms Nandita: Are people of benares supporting your cause? i believe some mahant is supporting your cause? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:57 IST) <br />Himanshu: Yes. Isn't that great that there are a lot of people who are supporting not just the cause of Water but the larger cause of freedom of expression. Many support groups, students, just anybody and everybody have been coming to us as individuals and as groups to show their solidarity. Thank God for them. The mahant, Dr Kulpati Tiwari, was very supportive progressive and encouraging... though he had his own special way of doing that. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />jyoti (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:56 IST) <br />Ms Nandita: Do you believe in lesbiniasm? also, what is the point in criticizing our own religion? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:2 IST) <br />Jyoti: There is nothing about believing or not believing, it's just something that exists. Period! I would rather believe in the philosophy of live and let live. As long as nobody is harming anybody, let's be concerned about more pressing matters in the country. In any case, it has nothing to do with religion, and has been there from time immemorial. I think it's better not to be too judgemental and decide for others based on our own individual conditioning. Wouldn't this world then be a better place to live? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />NanditaFan (Wed Feb 2 19100 7:59 IST) <br />I've got a feeling that Deepa Mehta is trying to pass judgments on Hindu religion by raking up senseless forgotten issues in WATER. Some bad memories r better to be forgotten rather than analyze them at a time when we've to move forward? What's u r opinion on this. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:7 IST) <br />NanditaFan: There are various good and bad things in our religion, culture, country, world , family... US! I think to reflect, to have constructive criticism, to question, to stimulate our minds is not such a bad thing. I have recently seen a widows' home here in Benares which is in an appalling condition. So it's not just about 1930s. Many such things still exist, it's just a matter of opening your eyes and mind. In any case, nobody even knows the script of Water, why are you presupposing that it is against our religion or that it is bringing out only the negativities of our history? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />debasish (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:5 IST) <br />Hi nandita, I am a fan of your simple look with great appeal in your eyes and the powerful acting. I want to know something about you and your forthcoming films. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:13 IST) <br />Debashish: Thanks 0:-)... ;-).... Unfortunately, I do pretty small films, which half the time nobody gets to see. That's my fate!! I've just finished a Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali film. I have also just done a film with Shyam Benegal called Hari Bhari and at the moment I'm still shooting for Rakesh Mehra's Aks (working title), the one with THE BACHCHAN. There's one about AIDS called Ek Alag Mausam and Saanwari (working title), a film on a rape victim's struggle for justice... Let's see how long I last. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> Nandita (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:11 IST) <br />So what is the connection between "widows" and "Benares" - if Water is meant to show the plight of "Widows" why can't it be shot somewhere else <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:16 IST) <br />Nandita: There were many widows' homes in Benares because of which Deepa was inspired to set it here. It is an amazing city so why not? Of course, it could be shot in place X. Then don't you think you would ask why only place X? And why not Y? Do you think such questions can ever end? Let's leave some things to the discretion of the creators. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />NoMovieBuff (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:16 IST) <br />Allrighto, Ms Das. Moonface is distressed that I'm asking the wrong questions, so here's a polite one: you've got the looks for conventional cinema - I'd say you've much in common with Kajol - so why aren't you acting in some? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:21 IST) <br />NoMoviebuff: I'm not at all opposed to doing films from any genre as long as I can relate to them. None of the commercial offers that have come to me have excited me as yet. Maybe if a good fun comedy, which is more on the lines of satire, and situational comedy, as opposed to slipping on the banana peel, comes to me then I will surely GO FOR IT *running fast towards the role and slipping on a banana peel* <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />NanditaFan (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:18 IST) <br />Why r u avoinding this questions asked by many fans here? How do u react when somebody says u r "HOT". I'd definitely say that's my compliment to u! And u've proved that u don't have to apply tons of makeup to look sensual. U r one of the few to be born with that inborn quality <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:27 IST) <br />NanditaFan: I'm not avoiding, just trying to be modest *blushing and all that*. In any case, I don't know what's the definition of hot. If it means being really warm, waRM, WARMMMM, then, at the risk of NOW being immodest, I must say I'm a reasonably Warmmmmmm person. And if you meant being cool... hey, why don't you only tell me what is it to be hot before I confuse you further or, for that matter, get confused myself! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />sohan (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:23 IST) <br />Benares is definitely not famous for illicit prostitution. So I wonder the place which Ms. Mehta chose. She could had found place next to her home in Canada itself. Can you imagine what impression a foreigner would make about Benares, if a person doesn't know anything about Benares at all. I think someone should sue Ms. Mehta. It is easy things getting approved by the "clerks" in the ministries using money power. I know the same way they can buy the protestant too. But is this fair? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:30 IST) <br />Sohan: Whatever gave you the idea that Water is about prostitution? It has no kothas, no titillating dances, no skin... Why not have just a little bit of patience and watch the film and decide then. I don't think you are being fair to us with these preconcieved ideas. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />sohan (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:31 IST) <br />Why doesn't Ms. Mehta and you get into "soft porn" business? It would fetch lots of money. The market for indian soft porn must be an easy bet? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />sohan (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:34 IST) <br />Thanks Ms. Das for your reply to my question. But I have seen both "Fire" and "Earth", and me and most of my friends were not impressed. It had nothing more to say that other similar movies except for a few "scenes". If you think you are talented, then do you think your talent is being utilised properly by Ms. Mehta? Or Ms. Mehta is merely exploiting you, just as the prostitutes in your movie were exploited once. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> Dinesh Gill (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:31 IST) <br />What are ur views on "nudity"? Should it be allowed in India. And would u have sex on camera if ur characters requires it <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:41 IST) <br />Dinesh/Sohan: It's really sad that the only scene that remained in your minds in both Fire and Earth were the intimate scenes. Considering both the films were about very pertinent questions of life and human behaviour, you chose to only think about I guess what interested YOU. I think any scene or shot cannot be judged by itself, but by what it's trying to portray and what signal it's trying to give. For instance, a rape scene can be shot in a way to titillate or can be shown in a way that it disgusts you and makes you feel shameful. So the scene by itself is not good or bad, but it becomes that by what its meant to do to the audience. I guess we all take different things from a film, depending on our interests and need. As far as nudity is concerned, I will not be comfortable with it purely because of my conditioning and inhibitions. But I wouldn't judge somebody on the basis of that. May I ask you if you think zooming into cleavages and showing bums and belly buttons of women is part of our s-called Indian culture? How come hundreds of films this nature are not questioned? I guess it is all subjective because my sensibilities as a human being and as a woman are offended. Sorry for the long bhashan, didn't mean to preach but just to share one's views. I guess, again, it's all about intentions. And, SOHAN, if it was all about "fetching money," then don't you think I would be doing some of "those" films? As all, the money lies there and not in one obscure Kannada, Bengali or Shyam Benegal film. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bhishma (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:40 IST) <br />Ms. Das, forget about politics, let us do some heart to heart talk. Have you ever had relationship with a woman? fire style <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:42 IST) <br />Bhishma: Not yet! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rohan (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:42 IST) <br />Well Nandita I feel..the common man in India knows very well that its the game of Politicians to increase hatred on sensitive issues..like for eg, the Shiv Sena gained political milage with breaking down glass panes and demolishing posters of Fire..same thing is happening with Fire, but this time its the sang parivar in U.P. Those who feel its bad don't watch it, stay at home no ones forcing you, we live in India a free country let the remainign half who are interested watch it. We don't want the politicians to dictate whats good and bad for us. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:43 IST) <br />Rohan, it's because of people like you that we are still sticking it out! Thanks! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:46 IST) <br />There will always be all kinds of people in this world, like our Rohan and Sohan! I guess that's what makes life so interesting. So let's live and let others live! I don't mean to ignore Bhishma, Dinesh Gill and other nicks who made this chat very HOT <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ms Nandita Das (Wed Feb 2 19100 8:47 IST) <br />Bye everyone... till we chat again <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-4150689928170667422007-03-09T11:56:00.006-08:002007-03-09T12:18:31.230-08:00Shyam BenegalThe Shyam Benegal Chat<br /><br />Whether it was the Husain issue or the manner in which his films were denied a proper theatrical release, Shyam Benegal was frank and full of insight. <br />The director -- whose latest film The Making of the Mahatma chronicles the transformation of M K Gandhi from genial lawyer to the most extraordinary leader of men this century has known -- walked into our office half an hour before the Chat, and then settled down to acquaint himself with the wonders of the Net. <br /><br />He has promised to be back sometime soon. <br /><br /><br />p alex (Wed Oct 9 09:52:18 1996 IST):<br /><br />Is Mr Benegal in?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nikhil Lakshman (Wed Oct 9 09:54:01 1996 IST):<br />Good Morning, Mr Benegal. It is wonderful to have you on the Rediff Chat. It is very kind of you to find time to chat. We hope you enjoy the experience.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nidhi (Wed Oct 9 09:55:34 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, how did you get the idea to make the film 'Making of the Mahatma'<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sparky (Wed Oct 9 09:55:45 1996 IST):<br />Hi everyone. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nidhi (Wed Oct 9 09:56:42 1996 IST):<br />Hey, Mr Lakshman, where is Mr Benegal?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 09:57:12 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, kashe aas tu? Hoshar aasve? It's good to speak some aamchi gele. Mine's very rusty though, as I am sure your's is. Good to chat with you this morning. So what vare you up to these days? From the write-up, I believe you made a film on Gandhiji. Do you believe you can hontesly better Gandhi by Attenborough?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 09:57:48 1996 IST):<br />Hi Mr Benegal, what was the response to your latest film -Making of the Mahatma?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 09:59:04 1996 IST):<br />What other films are you working on now?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 09:59:07 1996 IST):<br />Hello Mr.Benegal, What are your views on Gandhiji's vegetarianism?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 09:59:33 1996 IST):<br />Hi Nidhi: Professor Fatmia Meer a sociologist from South Africa wrote a book called 'The Apprenticeship of a Mahatma' this dealt with 21 years that Gandhi spend in South Africa a most crucial period in his life that lead to his personal transformation, as well as helped him to create his philosophy. It seemed like a very exciting story to tell on film. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:00:09 1996 IST):<br />Good morning, Mr Benegal. How you doing this evening, or should that be this morning? When I lived in India I used to see a lot of art films. Now I hear the movement is dead. Why? Does the NFDC not bankroll good films anymore? Have they gone the way of other government organisations?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sparky (Wed Oct 9 10:00:40 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal, which, in your opinion, is the best film that's ever been made?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nidhi (Wed Oct 9 10:00:57 1996 IST):<br />Thanks Mr Benegal for replying my question.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:01:05 1996 IST):<br />Mr.Benegal Will you ever consider making a film with Amitabh Bachchan provided money and time are not constraints for him and you?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:01:22 1996 IST):<br />It's been what 23 years since Ankur. You have made some good films, some awful filmns. Which film have you found deeply satisfying?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:01:47 1996 IST):<br />B K Karnad: Hanv Hushar assa. It's not a competition between me and Attenborough. His story primarily deals with the Mahatma taking India to freedom. My story is about Gandhi's personal transformation. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 10:01:56 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, I'm just curious to know how you select subjects for your films?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 10:01:57 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, I'm just curious to know how you select subjects for your films?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:02:17 1996 IST):<br />Hell Sekhar: The answer is yes.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B Ram Gopal (Wed Oct 9 10:03:06 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, Good Day. Why do film-makers like your goodself portray such a depressing view of India? is there nothing upbeat in your vision of our country?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:03:13 1996 IST):<br />Bharat D: Part instinct, part inspiration, part concern, part subject matter. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:03:14 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal,What according to you is the quality of the Mahatma that made him stand out among a galaxy of world class leaders?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:03:44 1996 IST):<br />Adoor Gopalakrishnan, rather than you, has grabbed Ray's mantle. How come you lost out?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:04:23 1996 IST):<br />Dear Ram Gopal: You have not seen enough of my films. I'm a natural optimist, there is nothing depressing in either my films or my own make-up.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:05:06 1996 IST):<br />Dear Madhavan: I didn't know that Adoor and I were running a race.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 10:05:15 1996 IST):<br />You've worked with many good performers on the Indian screen, who are the ones you would rate as excellent?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:05:19 1996 IST):<br />Thank you, Shyam. Good to know you haven't forgotten your roots as yet! You will be 62, this December. Do you feel satisfied with the way you have led your life. What has been the greatest disappointment in your life?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:06:09 1996 IST):<br />Sekhar: Transperancy, honesty and unrelenting seeking for social justice and an iron will. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raghunath (Wed Oct 9 10:06:11 1996 IST):<br />Which film would you rate as your best film ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nidhi (Wed Oct 9 10:06:55 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal do you agree with the fact that all the people associated with films are hypocrties. They just put a question mark to the society by making films. Instead of doing some ground level work? Why don't you join politics and become Mahatma of the 21st century?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:07:00 1996 IST):<br />Mr.Benegal,I read in "THE HINDU " a few months back that Gandhiji used to lie alongside naked women to test his powers of "BRAHMACHARYA".Do you think that this info is true and if yes what are yoiur opinions?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 10:07:47 1996 IST):<br />What are the frustrations faced by directors like you while making films in India?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:08:10 1996 IST):<br />Why is that your films don't get a proper theatrical release anymore? I think Mandi was the last film that got the release it deserved. I was in India for sometime these last three years and I could not get even one of your films. Not Satvan ka Ghoda. Not the one that Khalid Mohammad wrote. What's going on? Is it because there's no audience for your kind of films? Or is the thetrical circuit controlled by the Bollywood types?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:08:33 1996 IST):<br />BK Karnad: I don't think in terms of dissapointments because there are bound to be many dissapointments in ones life . My greatest satisfaction comes from the fact that whatever work I've done has been done to the best of my ability, even if the work sometimes turned out to be mediocre.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bharat D (Wed Oct 9 10:09:12 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, what is the next film that you are working on?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:09:48 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal, when i was in India i use to watch all kinds of films (parellel and commercial), but one thing always came to my mind films are for the people, then why is that ur kind of films only appeal to a small section of people and not the masses?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B Ram Gopal (Wed Oct 9 10:09:57 1996 IST):<br />I disagree, Mr Benegal, but I will let that pass. I don't dispute your calibre as a fil-maker. You are up in the pantheon, but I feel too many of your arty types make these kind of films to win awards? Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Aravindan, those Bengali types.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:10:03 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal, I had an opportunity to see your "SURAJ..." in Vancouver FF in 93. And on this sunday I saw your "MAHATMA..." at The FF. Though this time we wre not fortunate to see you in person. Colud you have Visited Vancouver this season? I loved both the films. With suraj I felt as if I was reading Dr. Bharti"s book and Mahatma was very eye oppening for me. The show was a sold out on both the days. I could not get ticket on friday and had to go back to see it on sunay. Thanks for such a marvalouse tret Mr Benagal<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raghunath (Wed Oct 9 10:10:25 1996 IST):<br />Mr.Benegal, which film would you rate as the one with the least number of mistakes.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:11:01 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal,You havnt answered my question on the Mahatmas experiments with brahmacharya?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:11:25 1996 IST):<br />Do you watch conventional Hindi cinema? re there any directors that you admire? Is there any Hindi film you have seen in the recent past that has impressed you with its content?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raghunath (Wed Oct 9 10:12:13 1996 IST):<br />Mr.Benegal, which film of yours would you rate as the one with the least number of mistakes. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:12:41 1996 IST):<br />Mr B, I just read that there is a controversy about Husain in Mumbai. What do you attribute for this fanaticism that has crept into Indian society? Having made a film on the Mahatma, do you think his message, his credo has been consigned to the dustbin of Indian history?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:12:46 1996 IST):<br />J Madhavan: The theartrical curcuit is controlled by cartels. There are demands for full rentals in advance. It is with great difficulty that small budget pictures get any kind of distribution in the present setup. It's easier to get on to television, which is precisely what happpened with my last three films after a very limited release.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:13:36 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal u have not answered my question , can u tell me why is this gap betweeen parllel and commercial? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:13:48 1996 IST):<br />Madhavan, I agree. I believe idealism lies in us Indians abroad. Wheneve I go home, I am taken aback by the cynicism, the shallowness that exists in Indian society. Do you agree with me, Shyam?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:14:00 1996 IST):<br />Mr.Benegal,I think that the Mahatmas biggest quality was that he left behind a number of leaders who would carry on his work.I mean his personality never stifled leadership qualities in others.What do you think?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:15:23 1996 IST):<br />Hello Mr Benegal, it is a pleasure to be talking to you. I know your film Making of the Mahatma has been released, what will your next film be?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:15:23 1996 IST):<br />Hello Mr Benegal, it is a pleasure to be talking to you. I know your film Making of the Mahatma has been released, what will your next film be?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:15:35 1996 IST):<br />How has the Mahatma film done? Why don't you release your films on Star? If Bachchan can get his films on the Star netowrk, why not your films which are so wellk crafted?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:15:38 1996 IST):<br />Mr. benegal please answer my question<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:15:52 1996 IST):<br />Mr. B,Please give us a sketch of Smita Patil as a person.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:17:24 1996 IST):<br />Madhavan: Political parties seem to think that the most potent motivating symbols are religious ones, they use this for their own purposes - in this case elections in Uttar PPradesh by elections in Maharashtra and Mdhya Pradesh and so on . Hussain has now been made a convinient target. The cynism that is behind actions like these is terrible,. But I believe that this is temporary and Gandhi, since reprents some of the most fundamental of ideas that guide our people will make a return. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:17:27 1996 IST):<br />Who according to you are the best actors/actresses on the Indian screen?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:17:32 1996 IST):<br />How was it working in South Africa? I believe it is a lawless country? Did you meet Mandela?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:18:52 1996 IST):<br />Mr B,What made you cast Rajit kapoor in two of your films-Suraj...and mahatma?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B Ram Gopal (Wed Oct 9 10:19:09 1996 IST):<br />Were you an adherent of Gandhi's philosophy or did you just make this film because it came your way? I believe you are now working with Jabbar Patel on a film on Ambeadkar?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:19:40 1996 IST):<br />Michelle: My next film has already been made it is called Sardari Begum and will be released in India in November .<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:19:47 1996 IST):<br />What in your opinion has led to India becoming what it is today?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B Ram Gopal (Wed Oct 9 10:20:33 1996 IST):<br />Do you plan to retire sometime?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:21:13 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, who according to you are the other great Indian directors?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:21:16 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal u have not answered my first ques. but i would like to ask u what do u think about the Indain actresses are ther any good actresses in the conventional cinema too, or our list ends at a few like Smita, Shabana who have featured in most of ur ventures( of late Pallvi Joshi too)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:21:53 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal some months ago a friend of mine wrote me from Bombay saying that you are working on a film called 'THUMRI" in fact she has done a dance piece in that film. Please tell us more about this film and where i can see this film?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raghunath (Wed Oct 9 10:22:05 1996 IST):<br />i heard that sardari begum has a few steamy scenes<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Naren (Wed Oct 9 10:22:07 1996 IST):<br />Hello Mr Benegal ? How would you rate Martin Scorcesse and Kurosawa as your peers ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sekhar (Wed Oct 9 10:22:14 1996 IST):<br />Mr B,How long do you think the present Govt. will last?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:22:27 1996 IST):<br />Ram Gopal: I was never a concious adherent of Gandhi's philosophy although I was uncounciuosly affected like a lot of our countrymen. I made the film on Gandhi because of how the personal transformation of Gandhi took place. I was a consultant at the script stage on Jabbar Patel's film on Ambedkar. I have no other role to play in that production. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:23:34 1996 IST):<br />Good morning, Sir. I am sorry I am late. Are you disenchanted with the way things are in the Hindi film industry? Is there no way out to establish a parallel film circuit? To make ansd show good films. Is there something seriously wrong with the way things are going? I hear there are no film societies in Bombay anymore. Is all this an outcome of liberalisation? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:24:20 1996 IST):<br />Purvi: Yes there are many excellent actresses in cinema today. Madhuri Dixit, Manisha Koirala, Tabu and several others. They would be an asset to any film. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:24:26 1996 IST):<br />?????<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:24:56 1996 IST):<br />By making films like Sardari Begum, are you not shutting your eyes to the reality that is India? why is it that unlike Govind Nihalani you have never made a political film?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:25:24 1996 IST):<br />:-(<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:25:29 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal is parallel cinema dead in India? Why is it that actors like Om Puri,Farukh Sheikh,or directors like Kundan Shah are either seen on Indian TV or are not seen at all?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:27:17 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal: How was your experience in shooting Discovery of India? What made you come in to this project? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:27:23 1996 IST):<br />A P Kamath: There are many problems that beset cinema today I won't go into the details because it has to do with economics, land values sky rocketing and so many problems that are seemingly unconnected with the cinema. It will take a while before some clarity will emerge. Meanwhile we are presently in a populist mode and must expect films of the kind that are dished out by the industry. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:27:49 1996 IST):<br />Why dio you think Gandhi and his vision died in post-1947 India? Was it because it was not a powerful enough force once India got its freedom? Or did it lack the clarity to be adapted to modern times?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:28:51 1996 IST):<br />How do you find the financing for your films? Who will finance the projects after Sardari Begum?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:30:28 1996 IST):<br />Soofee: The film is actually called Sardari Begum. There is adance sequence in the film and it is performed by an actress called Smriti Mishra who plays the younger Sardari Begum in the film. There is no other dance sequence. The film is being released in November in India and it deals with the life of a Thumri singer. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:30:39 1996 IST):<br />How do you find the themes to make films? Can I send you a script? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:31:19 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal: Why films like Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge and Hum Aap ke Hai Kaun do well? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:32:25 1996 IST):<br />I read an article on Smriti Mishra on Rediff. How good is she as an actress?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:32:25 1996 IST):<br />I read an article on Smriti Mishra on Rediff. How good is she as an actress?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:32:35 1996 IST):<br />Has Amitabh Bachchan's corporation asked you to make a film? Has he ever expressed a desire to work with you? Do you think he lacks the guts to work in films made by people like you?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:32:43 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal, I have read numourous film reviews of commercial Fiilms by Khalid Mhd. when I lived in India. How is his story which you are making the film on? any different from Commercial a film story.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:33:36 1996 IST):<br />BBK Karnad: I believe deifying Gandhi is a mistake. If we see him in a human dimension his influence would be far greater. The guiding principle of our cnstitution are based entirely on Gandhian principles. It would therefore be wrong to consider that he no longer has power to influence us today. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:34:09 1996 IST):<br />I heard you will make a film on Gurcharan Das's novel. Who will star in it? It has a very Trikaalish feel?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:34:40 1996 IST):<br />Michelle: Smriti Mishra is a very talented actress and she should go far. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Purvi Ghosh (Wed Oct 9 10:34:58 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal: Can you give some example in what way Gandhi's principle influence us today? In short, can you give your own example what principles of Gandhiji you observe?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:35:34 1996 IST):<br />Kamath: There is some talk of doing the book as a television series - not a film.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:36:27 1996 IST):<br />Kamath: Your guess is as good as mine. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:37:11 1996 IST):<br />Why don't you make political films? I thought someone with an intellect as fine as yours would dissect the political scenario with greater finesse than all these idiots in Bollywood.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:38:49 1996 IST):<br />Michelle: I don't like the words paralell cinema. It does not define anything there are only good and bad films. And as always there are more bad films and less good films. There is a great deal more work in television today than in the cinema. And that is why you see so many well known actors on television. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:39:14 1996 IST):<br />Does that mean Shyam Benegal won't make movies anymore? Will it be a series for Star?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:39:40 1996 IST):<br />Thanks for answering Mr. Benegal. I meant help by her in choreography.Mr Benegal I have always wondered about the commercial sustainance of Art cinema in India. Do all art films self support themselves?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:40:38 1996 IST):<br />Madhavan: Manyof my films are political in a tangential sort of way. To make a directly political film would be like sloganeering which I do not think serves any kind of real purpose except as a means to let off steam. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:40:53 1996 IST):<br />What changes do you see coming in India in the next ten years? I India, sir, not in filmdom.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Michelle (Wed Oct 9 10:41:09 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, what are your interests besides film making?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:41:36 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, what has been the most satisfying film you have made so far?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:43:14 1996 IST):<br />Kamath: No such thing. A filmmaker continues tgo make films one way or the other. <br /><br />Soofee: Not all small budget films and films of presonal expression can cover their costs by a theatrical release. They need television to cover their costs. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:43:23 1996 IST):<br />I have just received e-mail saying that the Mahatma film is being yanked off theatres in Bombay. Is that true?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Naren (Wed Oct 9 10:43:32 1996 IST):<br />Although we have seen some of our actors star in Hollywood movies, when can we expect a Director to do so ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:47:38 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal who would you call a successful film maker?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:47:49 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, I believe a human being has to take a stand one way or the other. You may not make political films, but your films convey your ingtent. Ideologically, I believe you are left of centre. Is that correct? Is that hue still fashionable in India? I believe the colour au courrant was saffron.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 10:48:04 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, what is the reason for some much of obscenity and rubbishness in most of the movies in the past few years. Why movies like PYASA, SARASWATI CHANDRA, MOTHER INDIA, NEEL KAMAL etc. are no longer produced. Do you think there are insufficient no. of people willing to see such movie ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:48:56 1996 IST):<br />Has your cousin Guru Dutt any influence on your film-making?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:48:58 1996 IST):<br />Madhavan: The present journey that is going on in the country should actually help in creating a more equitable society in the long run. <br /><br />Michelle: My vocation is film making my other intersts include literature and music and differnt sciences. Also politics but not to practise but to understand the nature of it. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 10:49:47 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, who is the best actor/actress you have worked with?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:50:20 1996 IST):<br />That's an interesting response. An elaboration would be greatly appreciated.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:52:08 1996 IST):<br />Kamath: The film hasn't been doing terribly well in the cinemas. It is expected that the film will be released gain after the festival season when cineam going becomes much more intense than it is just before and during the festival. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Rami (Wed Oct 9 10:52:23 1996 IST):<br />Hi Mr Benegal, lucky to have caught you. Which is your film maker?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:52:24 1996 IST):<br />Do you think audiences in India are too unsophisticated to appreciate films like the ones you make.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Rami (Wed Oct 9 10:53:06 1996 IST):<br />Sorry, the question actually was which is your fav film?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 10:53:17 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, where do you think the Indian film industry is heading towards? What is the state of the industry you foresee 10-20 years from now?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:53:44 1996 IST):<br />When a film on the Mahatma does not do well, I guess that is a startling comment on the state of affairs in India.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 10:54:14 1996 IST):<br />Raj: There are sevreal . I will not elaborate on this since if by chance I have forgotten to name one or tow of them it would lead to unnessacary misunderstandings.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 10:54:46 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, where do you think the Indian film industry is heading towards? What is the state of the industry you foresee 10-20 years from now?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J Madhavan (Wed Oct 9 10:55:11 1996 IST):<br />Someone who saw the film on the Mahatma and communicated to a friend that you are way behind the times in the film was made. What he meant was that you are in a time warp and that your work needs to develop. Do you agree with such a criticism?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 10:56:00 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, you still haven't answered many of my questions. Please do.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Naren (Wed Oct 9 10:57:09 1996 IST):<br />I second BK's request for my questions.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A P Kamath (Wed Oct 9 10:57:36 1996 IST):<br />Has Dickie Attenborough seen your film? What did you learn about the Mahatma's evolution in South Africa? What converted this genial man into a leader of men? One of the greatest there has been in this time or another time.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 10:57:39 1996 IST):<br />What shoud the film industry do to face the existing and future stiff competition from the cable TVs?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 10:58:31 1996 IST):<br />Kamath.. Mahatma... may not be doing well in India may be because Mr. Benegal Has Portrayed Gandhi as he was , Secularist that is and in India no one cares for secularism today. And B K Karnad is right when he says the colour of the day in India is Saffron.. . Every one knows who killed Gandhi.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 10:59:21 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, Thanks for answering my question. I hope yoy would answer to other questions as well.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:00:27 1996 IST):<br />Soofee, where are you from?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:00:54 1996 IST):<br />Kamath: I would not like to charactersie our audiences as unsophisticated. Our film makers have treated them that way over a ver long period of time. They have been coditioned for the last 40 or more years by films that are infantile, suggesting that the characters who people our films are generally idiots or barely intelligent. <br /><br />Rami: I have several fav film makers and a fairly large number of fabv films accumalated over a long period of time. The numbers would be too large to mention here. Chaplin, Orson Welles, Satyajit Ray, Kurusawa, Fellini, De Sica, john Ford, John Huston, Coppola, Scorsese, Tarkovsky , and several othesrs.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 11:01:56 1996 IST):<br />Raj, from Planet Earth!!!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad (Wed Oct 9 11:02:07 1996 IST):<br />Shyam Hav Visru Naka <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:02:20 1996 IST):<br />How do you go about choosing new faces for your movies? How should one approach you to find out the possibility of getting a break in your movies?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Rami (Wed Oct 9 11:02:55 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal do you have any dream project..a film an idea forming somewhere in your mind..that you can forsee as your best endeavour?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />prakrut (Wed Oct 9 11:03:27 1996 IST):<br />Mr.B: Who are the Indian directors both contemprory and past?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:03:37 1996 IST):<br />Soofee, its great to know that you are from earth (and not from Marsh)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:03:41 1996 IST):<br />Kamath: For my answer to that you would have to see the film. I hope you will get an oppurtunity to do so. I don't knwo wether has seen the film yet, the film is yet to be released in UK it is expected to open in winter. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:04:27 1996 IST):<br /><>STRONG>Mr Benegal will take two more questions.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:04:52 1996 IST):<br />How do you go about choosing new faces for your movies? How should one approach you to find out the possibility of getting a break in your movies?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:05:44 1996 IST):<br />Soofee, it's great to know that you are from Earth (and not from Marsh).<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:06:04 1996 IST):<br />Raj: I chose my actors according to the characters and roles I have in my films. They are chosen for their talent, ability, discipline and presence. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 11:06:23 1996 IST):<br />Mr. Benegal Have seen "Natural Born Killers" and "Pulp Fiction"? If yes what is your reaction to that? Also what do you think of plagirism in Hindi cinema ( Mostly from Hollywood)????<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:06:56 1996 IST):<br />Soofee, it's great to know that you are from Earth (and not from Marsh).<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:07:37 1996 IST):<br />Soofee, it's great to know that you are from Earth (and not from Marsh).<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:08:12 1996 IST):<br />Soofee: I've seen Pulp Fiction. It is extremely well made and has to be taken in the right spirit and not literally. I have not seen Natural Born Killers. I think plagarism in any form is despicable. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 11:08:14 1996 IST):<br />Raj, Just migrate. There is no Mr. Benegal there. Only couple of Rajs.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:09:03 1996 IST):<br />Soofee, it's great to know that you are from Earth (and not from Marsh).<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 11:09:50 1996 IST):<br />Thank you very very much Mr. Benagle.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:11:05 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, thank you very much for your intelligent and interesting comments/answers.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />B K Karnad: (Wed Oct 9 11:11:40 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, I am mosgt disappointed that you did not answer my questions. Please take at least one of them. For Aamchi gele's sakes!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:11:53 1996 IST):<br />Ramui: Every new film I make is designed as a film on which I will do my best. I've many dream projects and hope that I will someday be able to make atleast one or tow of them. A constraint always is that of fianace. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Rami (Wed Oct 9 11:11:59 1996 IST):<br />Thank you Mr Benegal, it was wonderful speaking with you. All the best for all your coming ventures.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Raj (Wed Oct 9 11:12:52 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, thank you very much for your intelligent and interesting comments/answers.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 11:13:44 1996 IST):<br />Good thing Mr. Benegal does not believe in Amci gele(s).<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Shyam Benegal. (Wed Oct 9 11:15:22 1996 IST):<br />Thank you very much . All of you. Will probably talk to you again when I can find a little time. It was fun chatting with you all. Bye for now. <br /><br />Karnad: Will practice my Amchi Geli with you some more next time.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nikhil Lakshman: (Wed Oct 9 11:15:50 1996 IST):<br />Mr Benegal, Many thanks for appearing on the Rediff Chat. I hope you found the experience interesting and we look forward to having you with us again. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Soofee (Wed Oct 9 11:15:52 1996 IST):<br />Bye Mr. Benegal, Raj, Nikhil and Mr.Karnad offcourse.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Padmanabhan (Wed Oct 9 11:24:35 1996 IST):<br />Shyam, Which do you rate as your best movie ? and what is your definition of an :art" movie / 'Commercial' movie ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />asgsdahga (Wed Oct 9 11:25:19 1996 IST):<br />Hai Mr Shyam, This is Shaji from Kuwait. First of all let me congradu;ate you for picture about Mahatma.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Rami (Wed Oct 9 11:27:16 1996 IST):<br />Hi Shaji, Mr benegal has already left.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />asgsdahga (Wed Oct 9 11:28:31 1996 IST):<br />What persuaded you for making that picture which I could'nt see so far. shaji Kuwait <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />coomi (Wed Oct 9 11:37:29 1996 IST):<br />Whew! got through at last! but too late. Didn't get connected for almost 1.5hrs. Sorry I missed the great man. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />coomi (Wed Oct 9 11:37:29 1996 IST):<br />Whew! got through at last! but too late. Didn't get connected for almost 1.5hrs. Sorry I missed the great man. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-9626643939842522252007-03-09T11:56:00.005-08:002007-03-09T12:13:54.150-08:00Mahesh BhattThe Mahesh Bhatt Chat<br /> <br />We had two Bombay-born celebrities from the movies within twelve hours of each other. Mahesh Bhatt, Bollywood's enfant terrible, on Thursday, January 9, and Hollywood legend Ismail Merchant on the morning of January 10. <br />The Chats were a study in contrasts -- Mahesh was true to his image: efferverscent, voluble, and full of Bhattian observations; Ismail, strangely, was subdued, nothing quite like his billing of charming bon vivant. Perhaps we caught him on a bad day. <br /><br />Don't miss the transcripts. <br />jj (Thu Jan 9 19:23:08 1997 IST):<br /><br />hello<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Nikhil Lakshman: (Thu Jan 9 19:54:56 1997 IST):<br />Hi, Mahesh. Great to have you with us in the Rediff office. I hope you enjoy this experience!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 19:56:38 1997 IST):<br />Hi Mr Bhatt... what's with your luck of late.. seems to be running out. your films are flopping. losing your touch?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />James Donald Topno (Thu Jan 9 19:57:28 1997 IST):<br />Is Mahesh Bhatt in?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />killer (Thu Jan 9 19:58:21 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt, Hai, its nice to have you with us.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:00:30 1997 IST):<br />Hi Is the world different wherever you are?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />James Donald Topno (Thu Jan 9 20:00:49 1997 IST):<br />Whatever happened to the Mahesh Bhatt touch? When I left India, you were one of the best directors around. Now, I hear every film of you has bombed, and what is worse, there is nothing unusual about the stories.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:01:09 1997 IST):<br />Not really. How's it at your end?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Ashok Ramanathan (Thu Jan 9 20:01:53 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh, Hi! I believe your early films did well because they came out of your gut, out of experience.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Ashok Ramanathan (Thu Jan 9 20:02:34 1997 IST):<br />Your later films no longer have that authenticity. How come? Sold out to Mammon?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:02:39 1997 IST):<br />Yeah, what happened to the guy who made all those wonderful films like Saaransh and Kaash and my favourties - Dil Hai... and Hum Hain Raahi... Where did he get lost?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:02:49 1997 IST):<br />Hi Is the world different wherever you are?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />killer (Thu Jan 9 20:03:07 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhat, What are your future plans?. We are planning a commercial for our product. Its Denim Wear. will you be interested in doing it?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Govind Kulkarni (Thu Jan 9 20:04:22 1997 IST):<br />Why are you so pretentious? You remind me of Sharmila Tagore in the sixties. Lugging Sartre to the sets. Have you always been so pretentious?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:04:24 1997 IST):<br />Don't tell me the man who had the gift of the gab doesn't know what to say anymore!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Govind Kulkarni (Thu Jan 9 20:05:35 1997 IST):<br />What is the latest on the Tamanna controversy?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:05:42 1997 IST):<br />Hi Mr Bhatt... what's with your luck of late.. seems to be running out. your films are flopping. losing your touch? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:05:51 1997 IST):<br />Snap: A long and productive career in the world of films is bound to be checkered with success and failures , you cannot have one without the other , the only way not to make a flop is not to make a film . Do you know how the Japs define courage ---" Fall down ten times, get up eleven time"....C'mon gimme a hand! I thought the audience was more forgiving than the critics. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:07:13 1997 IST):<br />They are, but then, they don't like being taken for a ride either. And that, Mr Bhatt, is the impression you are giving them.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />James Donald Topno (Thu Jan 9 20:07:25 1997 IST):<br />How can we forgive someone who gave us Arth and Saransh, and then produced all those lousy films? Have you lost your motivation to make good films on the way? Is making money your only prerogative now?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:08:10 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. of course they are, but when you make films like Saaransh and Arth.. and then something like Chaahat or Papa Kehte hai.. what do you expect us to do but be upset..<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />killer (Thu Jan 9 20:08:17 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhat, Pls tell me are you interested in doing a commercial for Fashion Product. Pls reply<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:08:34 1997 IST):<br />Govind: I would rather be stupid than pretend to be intelligent . In any case whatever you think you think about me is only through those words that are written about me in the film magazines . If they have given you the reason to arrive at this opinion its your privilige . <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />dharma (Thu Jan 9 20:08:52 1997 IST):<br />why dont you make a movie with kamal hassan in the lead with poojabhatt in adiffrent subject for which kamal may help you<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Ashok Ramanathan (Thu Jan 9 20:08:53 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh, Hi! I believe your early films did well because they came out of your gut, out of experience. Your later films no longer have that authenticity. How come? Sold out to Mammon? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pooja (Thu Jan 9 20:09:25 1997 IST):<br />OUt of all the newcomers whom do you think has the greatest potential to makit it in the fim world?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pooja (Thu Jan 9 20:09:37 1997 IST):<br />OUt of all the newcomers whom do you think has the greatest potential to makit it in the film world?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:09:43 1997 IST):<br />Many of your films were 'inspired' - like Hum Hain... for instance. But they were good fun. None of your recent films, your attempts to copy other successful films, have been any good. Is this what we are to expect of you in the future too? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:10:07 1997 IST):<br />Killer: Yes of couse , pay me lots of money in any foriegn currency. And I'll be there*singing* Whats good of being famous if you cannot convert that fame into money. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />dharma (Thu Jan 9 20:10:30 1997 IST):<br />why dont you make a movie with kamal hassan in the lead with poojabhatt in adiffrent subject for which kamal may help you,did you ever considered this optio<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Govind Kulkarni (Thu Jan 9 20:11:30 1997 IST):<br />Hey, Mahesh, don't be so prickly! It amazes me that Bollywood has regressed into an infantile, almost cretinous mode, instead of evolving into something superior, with themes that are commercial, yet refines. Alas! that is not happening. As an insider, could you let us know why?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:11:54 1997 IST):<br />Which kind of brings us to the moot point? Is Tammana going to be your swan song?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:11:59 1997 IST):<br />Tanisha: The future will be a modified continuity of the past. My advice to you make sure you hear how the film is before you go see it. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />killer (Thu Jan 9 20:12:47 1997 IST):<br />Yes Mr. Bhat when I offered you a commercial certainly I intend to pay you but not in F currency. Why not our Indian Currency?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:13:09 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. do we expect such mediocre stuff from in future or there is a chance that you might make films like you did before?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Ashok Ramanathan (Thu Jan 9 20:13:20 1997 IST):<br />Whenever your impulses have been autobiographical, your cinema has been sensational. Why did you drift? How much of you is there in films like Chahat?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />dharma (Thu Jan 9 20:13:42 1997 IST):<br />why did you try to project pooja<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />taxman.. (Thu Jan 9 20:14:03 1997 IST):<br />Hi Mahesh. It was fun rading your house. Why did you guys hide in the bedroom and jumped outta the window later on? For someone who comes across as a fearless character it was quite disappointing. Wanna say somethin about it buddy??<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />James Donald Topno (Thu Jan 9 20:14:18 1997 IST):<br />How can we forgive someone who gave us Arth and Saransh, and then produced all those lousy films? Have you lost your motivation to make good films on the way? Is making money your only prerogative now? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:14:52 1997 IST):<br />Tanisha: No certainly not. Shirin will. I hope to make this film by early 1998. <br /><br />Govind: The question could be simpler could you kindly reframe it. <br /><br />Dharma: Sorry, I'm not a great Kamal fan. I do not have the talent nor the inclination nor the time to prove a point to myself or to anybody out there. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Ashok Ramanathan (Thu Jan 9 20:15:30 1997 IST):<br />As someone who has had several relationships, do you still subscribe to the insitution of marriage and monogamy?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:17:13 1997 IST):<br />Tell us more! What's Shirn going to be about? And what are you planning to do after that? I don't exactly see you sitting at home and twiddling your thumbs!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Govind Kulkarni (Thu Jan 9 20:17:20 1997 IST):<br />What I asked was: It amazes me that Bollywood has regressed into an infantile, almost cretinous mode, instead of evolving into something superior, with themes that are commercial, yet refined. Alas! that is not happening. As an insider, could you let us know why? What I want to know is why do we make such, excuse the language, make such shitty films?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pooja (Thu Jan 9 20:17:51 1997 IST):<br />Can you tell sometyhing more about Shirin, like soem idea of the plot?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />James Donald Topno (Thu Jan 9 20:18:17 1997 IST):<br />Who are the most interesting performers you have worked with in the recent past and why?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />dharma (Thu Jan 9 20:18:18 1997 IST):<br />why dont you make a movie with kamal hassan in the lead with poojabhatt in adiffrent subject for which kamal may help you,did you ever considered this optio<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:20:19 1997 IST):<br />Who are the actors/technicians in India you would like to work with? Who are the people (Indian) who would form part of your ideal team for making films? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:20:32 1997 IST):<br />James Donald Topno: Money is the stuff of life ..by the way once upon a time I would unashamedly say I want your money not your praise . Today I don't even want that. <br /><br />Killer: Okay how much. Call my secretary. Tel no : 9820055770 <br /><br />Ashok: Who the hell told you all movies that we make are great love affairs , most of them my dear are one night stands. <br /><br />Dharma: Why not ?? She is my daughter she is intelligent , and she is pretty . Aren't fathers supposed to help their kids ? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:22:27 1997 IST):<br />Tanisha: Naseerudin Shah, Tanuja Chandra, Shabana Azmi , Satyadev Dubey , Paresh Rawal, Anupam Kher and Shah Rukh Khan. And all the technicans I'm currently working with. And produced by Pooja Bhatt Of course. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Govind Kulkarni (Thu Jan 9 20:23:04 1997 IST):<br />I know you are good at oneliners, but seriously, why are Hindi films in such a crass bind? Why can't they evolve into something more refined? Why must Mahesh Bhatt make a Chahat or a Gentleman instead of a Dil Hain Ke Maanta Hain... ean<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:23:36 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. what are you going to do after Shirin? will you be quitting films for good and do something else?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:23:56 1997 IST):<br />Pretty neat! But what about your scriptwriter? Or are you going to write the script yourself?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />killer (Thu Jan 9 20:24:21 1997 IST):<br />Yes Mr. Bhat, I like that. I certainly will call your secretary to confirm the appointment. Thanks & Bye<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:24:21 1997 IST):<br />Pooja: You'll hear about Shirin in my future interview at the moment I can only say that it is based on my memories of my mother. The film deals with a ten year old boy waking up to some harsh painful truths of life . <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:24:35 1997 IST):<br />Hello, is everyone still there? I'm writing from Washington DC. Is Mr. Bhatt on right now? If you are could you please tell me why you aren't accepting people for 1997 at FTII<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:24:44 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt, I think you missed my last question so I'm posting it again. <br /><br />Tell us more! What's Shirn going to be about? And what are you planning to do after that? I don't exactly see you sitting at home and twiddling your thumbs!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:26:15 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. why do all your films have this boy who is suffering and who is out for revenge? I am sure you can be original...<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:27:14 1997 IST):<br />Hello Pooja, Just to let you know that you indeed are a very talented actor. So tell me, up to what percentage of truth is there in these movie magazines? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:27:48 1997 IST):<br />hello Mr. Bhatt< How is it working with Sunjay Dutt?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pooja (Thu Jan 9 20:28:42 1997 IST):<br />Great!! Sounds like finally we will have a Bhatt comeback ! Has the cast for the film been finalised yet.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 20:29:21 1997 IST):<br />Sorry I'm late! Hello out there! So how's it feel to be on the Net?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:29:38 1997 IST):<br />Tanisha: The script will be written by Tanuja Chandra , she has recently written Tamanna for me . <br /><br />Snap: I writing a book called Burn Out. It deals with my memories of the show business . And I'll also continue to be actively involved with my company Plus Channel. <br /><br />Govind: I promise you that every film maker tries his best to entertain and not punish his audience . It is unfortunate that he often fails believe me my intentions were to entertain you even in all those films that you have detested .Sorry, I'm only human. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:30:36 1997 IST):<br />MR> BHATT< What is going on at FTII? Why are younot accepting applications for 1997? Feroz Khan's nephew, Imran, a friend of mine visited the institute and said admissions were closed. I've also been in contact with the cinematographer Ashok Kumar who is on your academic council. It is confirmed, but why? Does it have anyting to do wiht the fact that your students are 'disruptive'?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:31:21 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. why is the fire missing? you are really playing it safe... or is it because we are not journalists.. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pooja (Thu Jan 9 20:31:23 1997 IST):<br />Zaza, there is not only one pooja in this world!! Maybe just one pooja who is a nice actress, though I too am from the vicinity of Washington DC.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 20:31:50 1997 IST):<br />Say , how come you keep promoting Pooja...how about doing the same for Soni? I'm sure she is quite capable of stellar roles<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:32:53 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt, Pooja Bhatt had shown such potential in her earlier movies, why has she regressed instead of growing like her contemporaries?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:33:27 1997 IST):<br />Tina: I feel vulnerable & exposed. I guess I asked for it , occupational hazards I guess. <br /><br />Pooja: No , but most of them would be newcomers . I love working with newcomers. <br /><br />Hello: Sanjay is a freind. We've had our major hits together . Naam and Sadak, I'm wortking once again with him on Kartoos, I love working with Sanju. He's a darling. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bhagwan (Thu Jan 9 20:34:28 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: The success of Bollywood and its cousin in Madras threatens to devour the regional movie centres. For example, the Bengal movie industry is a pale shadow of its former self. Does this bother you? What can be done to revive the regional movie centres?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 20:34:49 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt ,I thought you had a lot of gumption and get up and go....you seem to be under the weather just now...what's wrong?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />siva (Thu Jan 9 20:36:10 1997 IST):<br />hello all & Mr. Bhatt.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:37:14 1997 IST):<br />Is it true that the Indian population is slowly beginning to push away the third rate standard of Hindi movies and instead demanding some quality? Y'know, Mr. Bhatt you have the potential to transform the industry, the scripts, the poor acting and the storylines. WHy don't you takeit upon yourself to change India's pathetic, fairytale image it has of itself? OR are you waiting for ABCL to do the job? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:37:15 1997 IST):<br />Tina: (laughing) Thank you for your suggestion tonight when I mention this to Soni she will be mighty pleased. <br /><br />Snap: No matter what I do you will have something to say , you'll only be happy when you hear what you want to hear. Sorry for dissapointing you have you ever heard of an extinct volcano. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />siva (Thu Jan 9 20:37:56 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt , what happened to Dastak?? Why is it that newcomers always start with flops??<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:38:09 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt: Will you be directing Pooja in substantial roles in the future? I am looking forward to Tamanna, should be nice welcome from the fluffy roles she's been seen in the recent past.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 20:38:34 1997 IST):<br />How does one get in touch with Soni?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Karlton (Thu Jan 9 20:39:25 1997 IST):<br />My first time here - I just came across it accidentally. Have I missed much ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pooja (Thu Jan 9 20:39:53 1997 IST):<br />thanks a lot for answering my questions. Gotta leave. Good luck and keep bringing us good films and we'll stay your true fans!!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:39:59 1997 IST):<br />Zaza: The Indian cinema does not require me or any other self proclaimed genius to steer it to exalted heights. In any case who has given me the mandate . I'm just a entertainer , I'll sing my song and go. I don't give a tinkers damn for posterity. Oblivion is my lot and yours too buddy. Got it ! <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:40:05 1997 IST):<br />Mr bhatt.. certainly, only feels kind of sad that you have to say that... we did expect fireworks..<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:40:16 1997 IST):<br />Which of the films you made is closest to your heart? Why? And if there is one film you made which, in retrospect, you would like to make differently, which would that film be and again, why?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:40:46 1997 IST):<br />I'm outta here, this chat line takes way too long and it seems to be more of a 'piss on or praise the artist' kind of thing. See ya'll. Maybe at sometime later this year Mr. Bhatt will answer the quesitons asked.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Karlton (Thu Jan 9 20:42:51 1997 IST):<br />Yawn ... ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzz ......<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 20:43:14 1997 IST):<br />Which part of movie -making do you find most exacting? Getting started, I mean.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:44:49 1997 IST):<br />Tina: I'll give you her number 022- 6208331 (Bombay) . <br /><br />HELLO ARE ALL YOUR QUESTIONS BASED ON WHAT YOU READ IN THE FILM MAGAZINES ? IF SO LET ME ASSURE YOUR SOURCE IS CONTAMINATED . WE FILM PEOPLE DO STUPID THINGS TO MAKE A LIVING BUT WE AREN'T THAAAAAAAAAT STUPID ITS 8:45 IN THE NIGHT HERE IN INDIA CAN WE HAVE A BREAK FROM MOVIES ? PLEASE I'M BORED , NOT ONE SINGLE QUESTION THAT HAS BEEN POSED TO ME IS NEW ..........AND YOU TALK ABOUT MY HACKNEYED STORYLINES...........LET ME ASK YOU SOMETHING .....HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT U G KRISHNAMURTHY AND ME ? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:45:01 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt: What contributed to the gripping intensity of Naam? Was it the real life bond between the two actors or do you feel it was something else?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 20:47:12 1997 IST):<br />Do you involve yourself with the other departments of film making. In what way and how much ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:47:14 1997 IST):<br />Snap: I beg your pardon I refuse to be caged by the expectations of the world . This is my life and I'm gonna live it on my terms . Period. Fullstop. Period......(do you feel the fire now? The volcano is not extinct but it chooses to be dormant.) Got it? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:47:43 1997 IST):<br />You don't have to be rude. All I am trying to say is that maybe we shouldn't leave the rest of the world staring and laughing at the quality of our movies. You've done good stuff, so why do you keep going back and forth between what really gives you a kick and what really keeps your wallet packed? If you don't give a tinker's damn then why does it give you an absolute high when you make a movie that could go down in the history of 'the rise of the Indian Film Industry'? So let's leave that behind BUDDY, and instead why don't you tell me about FTII or is that a topic you don't feel like answering questions on? You can say No, and I won't feel offended and you can say it nicely and then maybe I'll go watch your next movie.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:48:31 1997 IST):<br />Hello: The real bond between the two actors was the heart beat of Naam , it is that and only that which made it different from all the other brother stories. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:49:38 1997 IST):<br />yup Mr Bhatt.. and thank God for that! <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />siva (Thu Jan 9 20:50:16 1997 IST):<br />OK then ...no movies.... Have you been raided by the CBI? :)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:50:31 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt: here's your chance do some preaching, What had U.G. Krisnamurty meant to your life? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:50:52 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt: here's your chance do some preaching, What has U.G. Krisnamurty meant to your life? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:51:20 1997 IST):<br />Zaza: (Nicely) NO..............please go and see my next picture. Don't you know that we film makers are appluase junkies. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:52:32 1997 IST):<br />Actually I'd prefer hearing about Rajneesh, sorry Osho.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:53:09 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt, I agree with you. O think if everyone wants to know about Mr. Bhatt's movies, read the magazines or exercise some patience and wait for the damn movie to come out. MR. BHATT: You seem to have led an amazingly turbulent life. I have too in my own way, except that I haven't been publicized at least not on the cover of a magazine. It's funny but I have no greater desire than to one day produce and direct my own. Do you think that the similar dreams would have to do with the fact that our lives have so much to say? I have found that to be my own explanation.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:53:34 1997 IST):<br />great question siva!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 20:54:33 1997 IST):<br />Hello: Everything I say , think and feel is based on the insights I've painfully arrived at during the course of my various dicussions and battles with him. I've never kidded myself that I had any greatness of my own , the courage that you see coursing thorough my conversations is because of that man called UG . He is the most subversive man who has ever walked on this planet earth. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 20:54:50 1997 IST):<br />Tell me Mr Bhatt.. I am a average looker and have no experience in acting. still I would love to act in a film directed by you.. would give me a chance? :-)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 20:57:04 1997 IST):<br />Zaza, but real movie buffs need to know about the behind the scenes dynamics as well, what the director was aiming for etc., I don't think you get that from the movie magazines. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 20:57:56 1997 IST):<br />Don't worry Mr. Bhatt, I will see your movies. I may talk but the truth of the matter is that I am just like every other gullible Indian dying to live on a dream. Movies provide that, however annoyingly!! YOu're a good man, and you shouldn't let commercial prosperity blind your gift as an artist.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:00:40 1997 IST):<br />What advice would you give newcomers?In the field of Direction....Acting...etc? Personally I like your Educational TV Programmes best of all....the research is great. Keep up the good work.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:01:03 1997 IST):<br />Siva: No not the CBI the Income tax, dear. Do you know they found more books in my house than money . <br /><br />Zaza: It is not enough to have experienced pain it is how you convert that pain into a meaningful cinematic experience for the viewer and connect somehow with all those who are reeling under a similar experience that makes you a 'significant' film maker. Keep dreaming one day you maybe able to turn this dream into a movie . Who knows. <br /><br />Hello: I 'divorced' Rajneesh when I threw his mala down my comode in the year 1978 . That my ended my relationship with the holy business . UG is not a godman . He's just a regular guy who has a world view which will shatter you. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:02:49 1997 IST):<br />hello...<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:03:14 1997 IST):<br />Snap: If you have any talent come to me. Who says looks are pre requisite to be an actor. Hear of an acvtor called Amitabh Bachachan. If you have the talent and the drive come to me. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SmrtO (Thu Jan 9 21:04:37 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Your father was hindu & your mother was muslim, who chose your religion - mother ? father? Did you ever get time to think what you should be?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:04:43 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt: I'm sorry I haven't had a chance to witness you conversations. So what is your mantra for daily life?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 21:05:03 1997 IST):<br />TO THE PERSON ADDRESSED AS 'HELLO' Maybe you're right. You want to know about the insides of the movie. But I doubt Mr. Bhatt can show you what he wanted from the movie on the Net. I think maybe the best way to understand a movie and see what was behind the scenes in the thoughtstreams is by watching it. Don't expect an Oscar for every detail behind, instead watch it for what it seems to convey. None of us are oblivious to the intellectual capacity of Mr. Bhatt. His movies are psychological and analyse the innate pleasures and pains of humanity. It's simple - love, hate, desire, ambition and lust. What more is there?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:05:22 1997 IST):<br />Say how does one get to you....if I have the talent....etc. Won't your 'security system' keep me out?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:07:48 1997 IST):<br />Hello: Keep going(chanting) <br /><br />SmrtO: You'll get your answer in my film Shirin and I hopefully will get an answer myself as well. Thank you for the question. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 21:09:22 1997 IST):<br />Thank You Mr Bhatt.. It was very nice talking to you...<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:10:01 1997 IST):<br />Whoa what happened ..... Is there anybody out there.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SmrtO (Thu Jan 9 21:10:19 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Do you have courage to admit that you pushed Parveen Babi over the edge?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:11:33 1997 IST):<br />.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:11:43 1997 IST):<br />Actually I'd noticed your webpage a while back, I'll have to go back and check it out carefully. Par maaf kijiyega, ek movie question: Why haven't you worked with Madhuri Dixit, I think the great acting skills she displayed in Anjaam and Sangeet, and your directorial intensity and competence would be an extraorddinary combination.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:12:35 1997 IST):<br />Actually I'd noticed your webpage a while back, I'll have to go back and check it out carefully. Par maaf kijiyega, ek movie question: Why haven't you worked with Madhuri Dixit? I think the great acting skills she displayed in Anjaam and Sangeet, and your directorial intensity and competence would be an extraordinary combination!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 21:13:32 1997 IST):<br />I am sure, Mr. Bhatt, that holding on to a dream is hardly the reason you are a director today. To be in show business, you need to be a businessman and that takes the dream away, because you have to be the godman himself if you are able to balance both. To be a director is not really my dream as much as it is my ambition - and has been for more years than I can remember. It's my field and I am bloody good - at directing and at acting. I have my share of achievements. My only questions left to be answered is on whose turf do I play my game? I'm in the US right now... so do I want to be a big fish in a small pond or vice versa? But then I have social obligations too. You know the story, tradition is far from about to accept a successful woman in movies - at least 'not in my backyard'<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:13:35 1997 IST):<br />SmrtO: I could have been the catalyst not the reason. Recent studies in psychobiology clearly unmistakably say that mental illness is genetic. Parveen had inherited this trait from her father. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:15:07 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: How were you as a child? I mean did you pursue anything close to your career? What are some of the things/peolple that inspired you?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:16:12 1997 IST):<br />Hellooooooooo out there! Is Mr Bhatt there? Why's it taking so long to get an answer? Don't you like us ?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:16:15 1997 IST):<br />Hello: Shhhhhhhhhhhh a movie is in the offing. She could be paired with the BIg B just keep your fingers crossed. Hope it works out. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 21:16:17 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. how do you choose your actors who act in your films? there are quite a few you have not worked with.. like Madhuri Dixit for instance.. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SmrtO (Thu Jan 9 21:16:23 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Why do you shy away from a solid story and rely almost solely on screenplay? Dont you risk a flop with Indian viewers not used to screenplay based movies?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:18:18 1997 IST):<br />Keeping fingersXXXXXXXXXd ! But nothing's happening! What gives?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SmrtO (Thu Jan 9 21:18:44 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Thanks for the answers. Wish good health. I got to go to my job.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 21:19:17 1997 IST):<br />I think it's amazing that people can devote themselves so easily to one thought that it can drive them 'insane'. But from what I understand she's quite happy now living somewhere around here as an interior designer. At least we should give er credit for having pulled her life together.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:19:58 1997 IST):<br />.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:20:36 1997 IST):<br />Clion: I was an average middle class guy out to make a living , self expression creativity etc were jargons I picked up when I ran into the saviours of the Indian cinema . Its a miracle how I stayed afloat in this business. Pure animal energy I guess. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Zaza* (Thu Jan 9 21:21:22 1997 IST):<br />bye everybody and Mr. Bhatt, I gotta go feed my cat<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:21:38 1997 IST):<br />.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:22:06 1997 IST):<br />Great News Mr. Bhatt! hope the talks work out! What is the movie you are concentrating on right now, do you have to go to a shooting tomorrow? What's the movie?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Satish (Thu Jan 9 21:22:23 1997 IST):<br />Why is there so many remakes of westerns films from you?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:22:30 1997 IST):<br />hi! is the rediff chat really working? Mahesh: Which of your films U like most? Why?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:24:48 1997 IST):<br />daddy: daddy of course!;)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mog! (Thu Jan 9 21:25:45 1997 IST):<br />hey clion old pal...are you still goingto win something at Cannes? Mr. Bhatt, are you in the run ever for anything at Cannes? I think you shud meet clion....yo?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:25:58 1997 IST):<br />You seem to have hidden your real light under a bushel, so it is no wonder that we only know what we get to read...... though I hardly ever read filmy stuff in the mags and rags..... I have seen what it has done to really loving lovely people who were part of 'filmy' families..... So how can we get to know about you? Every man's work, is a portrait of himself...so, that's all you've allowed us to see. So, will the real Mahesh Bhatt, please stand up?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:26:02 1997 IST):<br />.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:27:05 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Is it true, what Shah Rukh says that most of your films are now directed by your assistants! And hence they flop? Like: Chaahat! Paapa Kahte hain! That's why he has rejected your fresh offer? Without even listening to the script!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Satish (Thu Jan 9 21:27:09 1997 IST):<br />Is Tamanna still in trouble (story rights)?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:28:56 1997 IST):<br />Satish: Cuase I'm not an original . BTW do you know what originality means? Conceal the source and your original. <br /><br />Daddy: The ones that flopped. Everybody is there to appluad the ones that worked . Somebody has to own up the ones that didn't . For a film maker a flop film is like a child they give birth to which takes few steps and falls and dies. Who else but the parent will bury it?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:29:44 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt: Any inclination towards acting?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:31:23 1997 IST):<br />Anybody interested talking to me on any other subject apart from films?? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:31:46 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: R U there?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:31:52 1997 IST):<br />daddy: daddy of course!;)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mog! (Thu Jan 9 21:32:04 1997 IST):<br />Mr. Bhatt : There is this lady here who knew you in Bombay way back in like 1980...Arth days...she says you are gay. Is that true? In anycase what do you think about being gay? Would you give that a go to, since you've done everyother human emotion on screen so far...how about lesbians??<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 21:32:26 1997 IST):<br />yes.. will spiritualism do?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tanisha (Thu Jan 9 21:33:23 1997 IST):<br />What do you think about the Indian Cricket team?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:33:54 1997 IST):<br />What would you like to talk about other than UG Krisnamurty? Is Prime Minister Deve Gowda gonna last?...<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:33:54 1997 IST):<br />How about discussing U. G Krishnamurthy?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:34:05 1997 IST):<br /> Mahesh: Have you made your "ideal" script/movie, yet? Do you have any plans to make a different genre than the ones you are doing right now?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 21:35:02 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt.. is there life after death?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mog! (Thu Jan 9 21:35:46 1997 IST):<br />OK, we won't talk about your films. Talk about your cars, your pets, your neighbour's wife, whatever turns you on. We'll take it from there. How about the sabzi-walee? How about the dabbe walaa? Does he turn you on? yum-yum....<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Frank Norohna (Thu Jan 9 21:36:02 1997 IST):<br />Hi Mahesh ! Long time no see!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:36:30 1997 IST):<br />MOG: Human sexuality has never shocked me . What two individuals do, how they do it, with who they do it, is their affair. Its a matter between two consenting adults. Well if you want an honest confession from me , anything human doesn't shock me any more and just about anything is human to me. But I'm not gay. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:36:35 1997 IST):<br />?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:36:57 1997 IST):<br />Who's the REAL you?......... What make s you tick? .....What is your favourite type of food? ...Ever think of getting onto the political bandwagon?.....Do you play real games....not the type people play!? Do you have an e-mail address? let's have it<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:38:12 1997 IST):<br />hee hee mog, ROTFL<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:38:21 1997 IST):<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mog! (Thu Jan 9 21:38:27 1997 IST):<br />.../<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:39:13 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Sure I'll talk to you about stuff other than films.....what do you have in mind?????? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Frank Norohna (Thu Jan 9 21:40:13 1997 IST):<br />A young woman walks into a doctor's office complaining about a rash on her chest. Upon examination, the doctor discovers the rash is in the shape of a 'Y'. The doctor asks the woman if she can think of anything which might explain it. "Well," the woman replies, "it could be my boyfriend. You see, he goes to Yale and when we have sex he insists on wearing his letter sweater." The doctor tells the woman to make her boyfriend take off the sweater before they have sex. Later that same day another woman comes in with a rash on her chest, this one in the shape of an 'H'. When questioned, the woman explains that her boyfriend goes to Harvard and insists on wearing his letter sweater when they have sex. The doctor gives the second woman the same advice as the first and sends he on her way. Later yet another woman comes into the office with a rash in the shape of an 'M'. Before the woman can explain, the doctor exclaims, "I bet your boyfriend goes to Michigan!" A smile breaks across the woman's face as she exclaims, "No! My girlfriend goes to Wesleyan!" <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Frank Norohna (Thu Jan 9 21:41:03 1997 IST):<br />Everybody who has a dog calls him "Rover" or "Roy." I call mine "Sex." He's a great pal but he has caused me a great deal of embarrassment. When I went to the city hall to renew his dog license, I told the clerk I would like a license for Sex. He said, "I'd like one too." Then I said, "But this is a dog." He said he didn't care what she looked like. Then I said, "You don't understand, I've had Sex since I was 9 years old." He winked and said, "You must have been quite a kid." When I got married and went on my honeymoon, I took the dog with me. I told the motel clerk that I wanted a room for my wife and me and a special room for Sex. He said, "You don't need a special room. As long as you pay your bill we don't care what you do." I said, "Look, you don't seem to understand, Sex keeps me awake at night." The clerk said, "Funny--I have the same problem." One day I entered Sex in a contest, but before the competition began the dog ran away. Another contestant asked me why I was just standing there, looking disappointed. I told him I had planned to have Sex in the contest. He told me I should have sold my own tickets. "But you don't understand," I said, "I had hoped to have Sex on TV." He said, "Now that cable is all over the place it's no big deal anymore." When my wife and I separated, we went to court to fight for custody of the dog. I said, "Your honor, I had Sex before I was married." The judge said, "The courtroom isn't a confessional. Stick to the case, please." Then I told him that after I was married, Sex left me. He said, "Me, too." Last night Sex ran off again. I spent hours looking around town for him. A cop came over to me and asked, "What are you doing in this alley at 4 o'clock in the morning?" I told him that I was looking for Sex. My case comes up Friday. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:41:28 1997 IST):<br />Hi Frank, hows the world treating you, hows your head? Everything okay up there? take care. Lots of love to the family. <br /><br />Snap: If you believe there is life after death it is there if you don't it isn't. But if you ask me do roses reicarnate? My answer is NO! Whats so special about you and me ? <br /><br />Clion: Please go here for more on UG : http://www.well.com/user/jct/consc.html <br /><br />Hello: Your guess is as good as mine.I Hope he does. India can't afford another election. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:42:54 1997 IST):<br />Tina: I really play real games, Interested??:-)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:43:52 1997 IST):<br />that joke so old Frank<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:44:05 1997 IST):<br />Yeah...say when ..and where!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:44:05 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Who's "UG"? I never asked anything about UG.....<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:46:03 1997 IST):<br />Tina: Now........gimme your number I'll give you a call. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SNAP (Thu Jan 9 21:46:51 1997 IST):<br />roses don't have pedaflops synapses. humans have. ask rajneesh if you don't believe me.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Frank Norohna (r seen. I should have told her about the one at the lake. Anywa IST):<br />Little Johnny was 11 years old, and like other boys his age, rather curious. He had been hearing quite a bit about courting from the other boys, and he wondered what it was and how it was done. One day he took his questions to his mother who became flustered. Instead of explaining things to Johnny, she told him to hide behind the curtain one night and watch his older sister and her boyfriend. This he did the following morning. Here is what Johnny described to his mother: "Sis and her boyfriend sat and talked for a while, then he turned off most of the lights. Then he started kissing and hugging her. I figured sis must be getting sick, because her face started to look funny. He must have thought so too, because he put his hand inside her blouse to feel her heart, just like a doctor would except he is not as smart as the doctor because he seemed to have trouble finding her heart. Sis must have put some bigger fruit under her blouse this time because her boyfriend kept on saying how they were the largest melons he had ever felt. He must of gotten real hungry from all that kissing and stuff because she let him take off her blouse and suck on both of them for a long time." "Then he started getting sick too, because pretty soon both of them were panting and getting all out of breath. His other hand must have been getting cold, because he put it under her skirt. About this time, sis got worse and began to moan and sigh and squirm around and slide down toward the end of the couch. Then this was when the fever really started. I knew it was a fever because sis told him she felt really hot. Finally I found out what was making them so sick. A big eel had gotten in his pants somehow. It just jumped out of his pants and stood there about 12 inches long! Honest! Anyway, he grabbed it in one hand to keep it from getting away. When sis saw it, she really got scared. Her eyes got big and her mouth fell open and she started calling out to God and stuff like that. She said it was the biggest one she had ever seen. I should have told her about the one at the lake. Anywa<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:46:56 1997 IST):<br />Mr Bhatt: Why can't India afford elections, who'd you vote for, or didn't you vote? Is Bombay,esp. movies, under the control of the strong arm of the Thackerays?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:46:58 1997 IST):<br />Sure....364 82 06......<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:47:42 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh: Who's "UG"? I never asked anything about UG.....<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mog! (Thu Jan 9 21:48:56 1997 IST):<br />hey clion...how's things? You still gay? hey mahesh...who said anything about human things between two people...your stuff is mainly like 3 or more... tell me:do you know the difference between cunnilingus and the Mafia???<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mahesh Bhatt (Thu Jan 9 21:49:34 1997 IST):<br />See you guys . Thank you, see you sometime , somehwre somehow, someday . Bye. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 21:51:05 1997 IST):<br />Any body? Care for a drink? <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tina (Thu Jan 9 21:52:09 1997 IST):<br />Hey don't forget to call me....Bye sweetums!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />hello (Thu Jan 9 21:52:54 1997 IST):<br />bye<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />clion (Thu Jan 9 21:53:01 1997 IST):<br />.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mog! (Thu Jan 9 21:54:31 1997 IST):<br />Hey!3648206 is the phone number for Barkha Patil nee Munde nee Thackeray nee dingdongbellpussyinthewell... dear mr. bhatt.this has been the most boring chat ever,further deadened by one shri frank noronha inanities...<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Parvin Babi (Thu Jan 9 21:55:05 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh ! <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Parvin Babi (Thu Jan 9 21:58:34 1997 IST):<br />Mahesh ! I'll miss U love!<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />daddy (Thu Jan 9 22:01:20 1997 IST):<br />Bye Every Body!EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-60156011330491928142007-03-09T11:56:00.004-08:002007-03-09T12:10:02.460-08:00Prakash JhaThe Prakash Jha Chat<br /> <br />Prakash Jha came in after a trial show of Mrityudand and set about fending off a barrage of questions about his move to commercial cinema, why he had sought to pander to populist tastes by making Madhuri Dixit the main protagonist of Mrityudand, whether he was in love with Ms Dixit etc. The poor man even promised a disapproving fan that he would hack off his pony tail. Details of the chat: <br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Rediff On The Net (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:8 IST) <br />Mr Prakash Jha will be logging in another 15-20 minutes as he is busy with the press conference. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:19 IST) <br />Here I am ready for you. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:19 IST) <br />Welcome, Mr Jha, to the Rediff grilling ground <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:20 IST) <br />We read your interview and we wonder if you have not betrayed our trust. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Madhuri (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:21 IST) <br />Mr Jha, why did you choose Madhuri for the main role? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Indian (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:21 IST) <br />Hello Mr Jha, Why is parallel cinema so quiet these days. Is it very difficult to produce art films? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:23 IST) <br />NGO: Well I have tried my best and so has everybody else in the film, the technicians and the artistes in the film alike. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Laloo Yadav (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:23 IST) <br />Will you join politics after all your films flop? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />S R Balasubramaniam (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:23 IST) <br />Are you in love with Madhuri? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />A R Narayan (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:25 IST) <br />Mr Jha, pleasure to speak with you. I loved Damul. I liked Hip Hip Hooray. Never got to see Bandish. People told me it was terrible. Do you think making a commercial film is beyond the ken of guys like you? They need an IQ of 5 and you have an IQ of at least 140! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Madhuri* (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:27 IST) <br />Tell me Mr Jha, why the commercial film? is it because Art films don't work any more? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:27 IST) <br />Indian: It is difficult and not quite viable to make parallel cinema these days. Unless a film gets released in cinema theatres its almost impossible to recover the production cost and for the film to get released in the cinema one has to cater to the popular market, some of us are trying to find a middle path by using the popular cinema language and saying what we want to say, we have tried to do that in Mrityudand. It's being in cinemas all over the world and it's success will definitely be encouraging for other film-makers interested in meaningful cinema. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Laloo Yadav (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:29 IST) <br />Why are Biharis so pretentious? Are you also a JNU type with intellectual aspirations? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Karpoori Thakur ka spirit (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:30 IST) <br />Do people like Madhuri work at a fraction of their price for you? Was she co-operative? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />NANDINI (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:31 IST) <br />Hello Jhaji... I bet you were looking out for me and wondering why I hadn't landed up... Remember the first time we met? I bet you don't! *S* <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:32 IST) <br />What we sought to highlight is your move from meaningful cinema, exploring some facet of society or human psyche to emotional manipulation of audiences. That looks like betrayal. If not, could you explain? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:34 IST) <br />Damul was a dark experiment. Are you planning any other such films? Or do you still claim that you are still certain somebody (not you?) will make art movies <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:34 IST) <br />Madhuri: She has popularity and a very good range, her face is perfect for communicating messages very powerfully; besides she was very involved in the film which made things simpler. <br />A K Narayanan>> I always thought making commercial films is far more difficult, it is very difficult to portray absurdity with some kind of conviction. <br />S R Balasubramaniam >>> Never thought about that, I quite appreciate her work though. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Madhuri* (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:35 IST) <br />Prakash.. you always have a rural background in all your films. Why? Have you grown in such a atmosphere? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />juhi (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:36 IST) <br />Mr Jha, Why did you move to commercial cinema? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Madhuri* (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:41 IST) <br />Prakash.. You said in a interview that this film is about women. How sympathetic are you to women's problems? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:41 IST) <br /> NGO: Must apologise for the faulty telecast of Damul. Believe me, it wasn't as dark as it was made out to be. I don't really know if I am the same man as the one ten years ago. I probably think differently , look at things differently and as I'm growing older I guess I'm beginning to enjoy some kinds of emotions, some kind of sentiments. Rationale is okay, but it doesn't answer all my questions. It's quite possible you will note some softer moments in Mrityudand. I only hope you don't get misled. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Indian (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:42 IST) <br />Mr Jha, Could you please tell us, is Mrityudand based on a true story? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />S R Balasubramaniam (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:43 IST) <br />What happens if Mrityudand fails -- God forbid? Will you go back to Bihar? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />The Prakash Jha Chat<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:44 IST) <br /> Madhuri: I just want to learn to respect their dignity. That's not really true because Hip Hip Hooray and Bandish are both city-based. But I must admit that I am more comfortable with the rural ambience. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:47 IST) <br />S R Balasubramaniam : Do you have any alternative suggestion? But don't worry this satisfaction of having made Mrityudand is rewarding enough and......I shall continue . Indian>>>> Its a lot of incidents woven together. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Madhuri* (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:48 IST) <br />But do you think that by rebelling women really solve their problems? you must know that physical hurt is hard to bear than the mental or emotional one.... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:48 IST) <br />What is this? One of those serious chats? Hey, when are you going to star oomphy Urmi? Or ravishing Raveena. Madhuri, face it bub, is getting passe. Ray in the MTV age? Shiver me timbers! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />juhi (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:49 IST) <br />Mr Jha, Why are your films based on social problems. Is it related in some way to your life <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />anurag (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:50 IST) <br />PJ:In Mrityudand you have depicted the "pandits" as the "bad guys". Why is it that in our Indian films its always the pandits who are the bad guys. I bet no one could show Muslims or Christians clergy in such bad light in India because their communities wouldn't tolerate it. Why do movie makers like you take advantage of the Hindu community which is more tolerant. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:51 IST) <br />Is the ending of Mrityudand populist? You know, the suppressed women rising up to overthrow their tormentors. Or is it realistic, as real as the rape of those women who inspired the film? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Indian (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:53 IST) <br />Mr Jha, Which is your next release. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:53 IST) <br />All this feministic stuff. So serious, so worrisome, so high brow. Excuse me when I eructate and thereafter indulge in some reverse peristalsis... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:56 IST) <br />Juhi: Yeah the society intrigues me all the time and especially I'm interested in the growth of the rural society, maybe its because I belong to a village from Champaran in Bihar. Madhuri*>>> Its not really rebelling. The most important thing is to learn and respect your self-dignity. Only then can we respect others; it's important that we bring up our children as equals. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:58 IST) <br />Why Ms Dixit. Even in Dharavi, the earlier parallel film she endeavoured, she played a fantasy. Do you think she can play shades as well? Or is she the 'Heroine', mushy and firm alternately? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:59 IST) <br />Slice the cowdung! Madhuri, Shabana. Oh, wearisome life. Why does Jha reminds me of a pony-tailed Ibsen? Does he too swig a dram too much and burn the ears of those women who don't believe they oughta be emancipated? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 22:59 IST) <br />NGO: The ending of Mrityudand maybe a fantasy but that's the way I would like to see it. Anurag: That definitely is not the intention, Mrityudand is the story of a Hindu village. And so obviously the characters have to be relevant. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:0 IST) <br />NGO: Watch her in Mrityudand, that's it! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:1 IST) <br />Could you tell me, Mr Jha. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:1 IST) <br />In Mrityudand, is empowerment of women the issue or is highlighting the problem itself. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Death Sentence* (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:1 IST) <br />Mr Jha.. how do you classify your films? art or commercial.. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Indian (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:1 IST) <br />Mr Jha, Which is your next release. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:2 IST) <br />NGO: Mrityudand is a whole lot of things; it's just that the women are the main protagonists. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:3 IST) <br />Ah, how I love fantasy. But then, Mr Jha, why not a Hedda Gabler? Why not shock 'em all. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Death Sentence* (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:3 IST) <br />Mr Jha.. how do you classify your films? Art or commercial. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:3 IST) <br />Indian: I haven't started working on it... I mean the film. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />anurag (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:4 IST) <br />PJ: Do you believe killing (as Mrityudand advocates) is the answer? I would think education, better accountability and community awareness would be better solutions? <br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:4 IST) <br />Death Sentence*: Somewhere in the middle. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />(Madhuri) (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:5 IST) <br />Prakash.. how do you like the computers? Are you savvy enough? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />juhi (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:5 IST) <br />Mr jha, Why have you kept pony tail? Is it something to do with your life. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:5 IST) <br />What are your upcoming movies. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:5 IST) <br />Anurag: I agree with you absolutely. If all that you suggest were done there certainly wouldn't be the need for another Mrityudand. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Death Sentence* (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:6 IST) <br />Mr Jha.. are you confident that Mrityudand will click at the box office? Bandish didn't. How could you make a film like that? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:7 IST) <br />Juhi: Don't worry pretty soon I'm going to cut it short. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:7 IST) <br />Why the tortured tale of women? 'Cause it leads the leches in by the nose? Hah, why not those wrinkled, sunburnt wretches, the bonded labourers - the weak, the weary, the worn, that sorta rot? Maybe the greasepaint flakes on them. You know, not photogenic... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:8 IST) <br />Death Sentence*: The narrative in Mrityudand worked very well and I'm afraid it didn't in Bandish. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:8 IST) <br />Whereas you have attempted earlier films with talent of an established nature, you have eschewed use of talent from NSD and other institutes of repute. Comment <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:9 IST) <br />Last 5 Mins :-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Death Sentence* (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:9 IST) <br />Mr Jha.. you make documentaries too.. which is fulfilling.. films or docus.. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />anurag (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:10 IST) <br />PJ: In any case "Mrityudand" is NOT the solution! Did you think of any other alternatives when making this movie (for the final ending)? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Indian (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:10 IST) <br />Mr Jha, You mean today it's impossible to make an art film? Please comment. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ngo. (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:10 IST) <br />Naseeruddin Shah did a convenient volte face recently when he said that if 'art' film-makers wanted to highlight the problems of the poor, they should work in rural areas instead of pontificating in urban refuges. What do you say about it? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />juhi (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:11 IST) <br />Mr Jha, What role NFDC is playing in promoting parallel cinema in India? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />bolly (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:11 IST) <br />Is he flinging in the towel. Already? Why? Do the gremlins of the Net cause a pang, methinks even of conscience? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:12 IST) <br />Anurag: Mrityudand's story had to have this ending. Death Sentence: Both really I am going to do a documentary before I do my next film, It's just going to be about faces. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />anurag (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:12 IST) <br />PJ: The kind of people you depicted in the movie would never have an opportunity to watch your movie (people from small remote villages). How do you suppose this movie helps their cause? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />mike (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:13 IST) <br />Mr Jha I saw the titling of your latest movie to hit the screen. I myself am into 3D animation and stuff like that and I have done some titling demo's for Mrityudand. If I wanted to show them to you how would I be able to do it? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Yasir (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:14 IST) <br />What made you choose the particular storyline for Mrityudand? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:15 IST) <br />Juhi: Not much I'm afraid, its being more and more restricted to regional cinema. NGO: I'm always amazed at what Naseer has done as an actor, and what he keeps on saying about the art cinema , I wish him all the best. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />anurag (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:15 IST) <br />PJ: What is the difference in what you advocate in Mrityudand and what Phoolan Devi did? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:16 IST) <br />ANURAG: Mrityudand is in popular cinema format and I hope that it gets released in all the cinemas. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Indian (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:17 IST) <br />Mr Jha, You mean today it's impossible to make an art film? Please comment. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Prakash Jha (Wed Jul 9 1997 23:18 IST) <br />Thanks guys, and goodnight. Bye, friends. <br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-73023421935155683392007-03-09T11:56:00.003-08:002007-03-09T12:04:05.209-08:00Tarun Tejpal'A journalist's job is to unearth corruption'<br /><br />New Delhi, August 8, 2002: Tarun Tejpal, editor-in-chief of Tehelka.com, the web site that exposed corruption in high places in the government, spoke about the harassment his company has faced since, including the arrest of journalist Aniruddha Bahal, who was part of the team that investigated the defence scams. <br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Hello, I am here. I am open to any kind of question at all. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Neeraj : where are you from ?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I grew up all over India in Army Cantonments because my father was in the Indian Army. Among the places I grew up are Mumbai, Assam, Bangalore, Bareilly, Babina and Chandigarh. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />aasdf : hello sir, what is the latest on aniruddha bahal<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Nothing at the moment. We are waiting for the government to launch its next salvo. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />james : mr tejpal, i saw you on TV last night. what do you make of the fact that so many journalists prefer to defend the arrest<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Well, actually all journalists across the board, including editors very close to the BJP government have strongly criticized the government's action in arresting Aniruddh. I think the media has been fairly unanimous in condemning this incident. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />haseeb : do u think tehelka is being targetted?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Yes there can be no doubt at all that Tehelka has been targetted for the last year and a half since the very day we broke our story on corruption in defence procurements. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />thedoggerel : Sir, if you had known the outcome of your investigations, would u have done things differently?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I choose to believe we would have still gone ahead and broken the story because along with all the harrassment and truobles has also come tremendous goodwill and acclaim from all sections of people across the country.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ameeta : Dear Mr Tejpal, much as I admire your site, there are questions about your funding. Don't you think you guys shd clean up your own act before chucking stones at others? How does your site survive when most others have shut down?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : There is absolutely not a single rupee out of place in our funding or our operations. In fact, thanks to the Government backlash to our story and the continuing government propaganda against us we are today a fraction of what we were when we broke the story. From 120 staffers we are down to 15 adn even these have been paid salaries for last 6 months. We are also in a great deal of debt but are determined to dig in our heels and fight it out simply because we are totally clean. The fact is despite every agency of the government desperately trying to dig dirt on us for the last year and half, they have not been able to come up wiht one single thing. And that is noly because there is nothing for us to hide or to be embarrassed about. You must be careful not to buy government propaganda against us which goes on all the time. Please remember this government today also tells us that no riots took place in Gujarat and the state government did a great job of containing the trouble. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Tara : How successful, do u think, Mr.Tejpal, was ur endeavour with the Govt of India, wrt INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM??<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Well this is a question for other people, media and readers to answer. For ourselves we can only say that we did our best and risked a great deal in order to expose the truth. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />cobra : Mr Tejpal, Don't you think the media has double standards? While on one hand you want the men in power to extend you subsidised plots et al, on the other hand you raise a hue and cry every time a mediaperson (fairly or unfairly is another issue) is targeted? <br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Well there is some truth to what you say and it is one of the reasons that the media cannot be as effective as it should be in a democracy. Yes the media should take much greater care to not be seduced by power or money.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />jps : from where do u get all these information.no body else can do this i think so<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : All the credit for the investigation should go to the reporters. In this case Aniruddh Bahal and Samuel Mathew. It is their resourcefulness and courage that makes stories like this possible.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sammy : We have a situation where a reporter gives a donation to the president of a national party. The president cleary says no recipt is available and to collect the same later. The deputy PM clarifies that the president indeed has made out a recipt and you idiots claim that the party president accepted bribes. If this is not nonsense what is ??? Serves u guys right<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Your facts are not in place. No receipt has been given or received and if you look at the tapes it is very clear why the party president is taking the money and how much is he asking for more.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />phantom : Mr Tarun,First of all, hats off to your operation and the findings, As expected the Govt is NOT solving the problem....If nothing happens with this expose...how do we solve this Corruption issue<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I suppose there are no easy answers. All you can hope to do is to keep battering away at it and hope you end up somewhere. All journalists can do is to continue to expose people who abuse public office and public money. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />CuriousGuy : Sir, whats your professional background - i mean before you associate with tehelka?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I have been a journalist for the last 19 years. I have reported for the Indian Express and the Telegraph. And have been an editor with India Today and Indian Express Groups. My last job was that of Managing Editor of Outlook, a magazine which I helped to start up. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />gurmeet : Focus on Punjab especially anti Sikh atrocities in last decade<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : We would love to do so and hopefully once we have the time adn resources we will do so.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />krishna : mr pal do u feel guilty<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Guilty of what? Uncovering corruption. No, I don't.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />drshetti : do you file income tax returns sincerly including <br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I do. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />pravin : what do u think india needs to improve on to rempve corruption <br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I think the change has to come right from the top because Indians respond to inspired leadership. We need leaders who can show us the way again. Unfortunately, none seem to be in sight. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ramu : This tarun is as corrupt as the victims he exposed. He has seen what his father has done in his army career and knew the loophole. He supplied girls to politicians and armymans. Do you thing If he goes to high post he will not do corruption. Is it out of patriotism that he exposed the politicians and bigshots? I apreciate his courage but he earned lot of fame and money from that for which he acted. What else is his contribution to Indian society?? Can you specify your achievements Mr Tarun?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I have to confess that the investigation was done by the two reporters Aniruddh and Samuel. And had nothing to do with my Army background. I can only say that I hope I will not at any point become personally corrupt no matter what post I occupy. As for fame and money it is true we do have a great deal of recognition but I have to tell you that we are very very poor. In fact in deep debt. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bhadoo : Mr. Tejpal, to what extent do you think it is right to put majority of the blame on politicians for siphoning off the 'State's money' when we sit back as lame ducks and do nothing about it when time comes, i.e. elections, when we conveniently sit back and enjoy a day's holiday. DOn't you think it is us to blame for institutionalising corruption within our system?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I agree we all need to take our share of teh blame for the sorry state of affairs. Unless, Indian citizens begin to engage in reforming India these problems will continue.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />WasimJaffer : I think the politicians should be hanged..& Tarun Tejpal should be made dictator of India<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I dont think so at all. I think the keystones of the Indian civilizations will always have to be tolerence and nonviolence. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />vikramvasu : Sir, do you believe that the end can justify the means ? Would you use a homicide to prove that a politcian is a murderer ? Where do you draw the line ?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : All stories have to be seen in context and are defined by the context and motive. Also, by what they reveal. I think Operation West End fulfills most criteria of a good story. Yes there is always a line to be drawn in everything and all good journalists know where to draw the line when it comes to investigating stories. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Truth : Sir, are you happy with the support from other journalists or do you think they should do more?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I am more or less happy with the way the media has handled the story. You have to remember that you cannot underestimate a government's ability to lean on media organizations and to try and influence their stance. In the given circumstances I think the media has performed more or less okay. I would of course like to have had more follow up stories on what we had revealed. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sachin : Mr tejpal sir, do u think ur exposing of the corruption in defense deals have brought about any change in the system ?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I hope that it does end up bringing some constructive changes. My position from the very beginning has been that this story is not about individuals or political parties. It is about systemic corruption and it needs to be addressed accordingly. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />chakra : Dear Tarun , I think my question got lost in the crowd. I felt last night at Star News you were overly diplomatic , than your usual self of being smart and agrressive. Why , r u under any pressure from within media<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : No, I dont think I was. I said what I felt and I do feel that all governments and all power structures are intrinsicaly malign, in lesser or greater degree. Citizenry and media have to always combat the excesses of power in order to retain balance in public affairs. My fond hope is that even this narrow vindictive government will see the light of day and realize that in a plural secular democracy like India pressurizing the media will always be counter-productive. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />tendulkar1 : Mr. Editor, where does Tehelka go from here? Any new surprises coming up?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Tehelka is at the moment struggling to survive. But let me tell you I am very confident that Tehelka will not only survive but will go on to do a lot more of the kind of good work it has done so far. Of course it is true that we are going through a very very difficult phase. But I am sure it will pass sooner or later. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />makkukikku : has the accusation by the govt that the tapes u submitted were doctored, been cleared??is the question being avoided or u just didnt get it Mr. Tarun?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : The judge of the Commission of Inquiry after listening to all the experts has on two distinct occasions pronounced the tapes bonafide and undoctored. Not only that even the High Court which Jaya Jaitley approached has declared the tapes geniune and undoctored. Since we are the makers of the tapes, I can tell you not one single frame of any tape has been touched or altered. All these noises are just attempts by those found guilty of corruption to somehow delay and derail the process of justice. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Radhakrishnan : You say tehelka is trying to survive...how much of interference from the govt cn you quote?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Please go to our website where we have posted a roster of harrassment we have suffered in the last year and a half. It should make for interesting reading. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />NUSchamp : TARUN JEE.....YEH AAPKI HIMMAT BOL RAHEE HAI KEE PAISE KEE MAYA HAI<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Abhi tho paisa ki maya ki koyi naam or nishan nahin hai. Bahut log a samachthe hai ki a hamari naadani bol rahi hain.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />drona : Let me ask you a question... are you telling us that all you did was above board and had no ulertior motive? Is first global above board in all this<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Absolutely and 100 per cent. It is a sad statement on our times that no one anywhere can see a straight story any more. We have become people led by so many ulterior motives that we cant recognize clean work even when it is under our noses. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />vandematarm : do u think your experiments with truth has boomeranged to you? if yes then do you also feel that india is not ready for investigative journalism?..please respond<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : Well we have faced a lot of trouble in persuing investigative journalism but I think this is no reason for other journalists not to take it up. I think India needs 100s of investigative stories every year so that people holding public office are forced to clean up their act. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />kriskyyy : We all know about corruption. What did you gain by this<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : A journalist's job is to unearth corruption and keep the leash on power short. Just because the results are not immediately evident or to one's liking is no reason for journalists to stop doing their jobs. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />vallu : media is as corrupt as any institution<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : It is possible that media may be corrupt. But the great stories are always done and broken by young idealistic maverik journalists. And these people are never corrupt or compromized and they are the ones who uphold the best traditions of journalism. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />kmohanp13 : Sir, would just like to know how do you intend to fight a government where they can invent things/ cases to protect themselves. or still better if if i may use the word "Dictatorship" in some sense<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I think we are protected so far by the fact that our conscience is clean and our backyard is clean. We also have been kept going by the staggering goodwill of the general public. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Garth : Why did you become a journalist being from an army background?<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I wanted to become a writer and journalism seemed to be the way to get there because I also needed to earn a living and marry the girl I was going around with. As it has turned out I have spent 19 years practising different kinds of journalism with different kinds of magazines and newspapers and writing has all been left on the backburner. But I hope to get to it someday. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mr Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-Chief, Tehelka.com : I am sorry I couldnt take all the questions because I have to leave now to confer with more lawyers dealing with the dozens of cases lodged against us. It was a pleasure chatting with you all and I would like to once again reiterate that Tehelka is a pure journalistic organization and has no other ambition but to practice good, clean, agressive journalism. All of you must be careful to watch out for the constant government propaganda that is carried out against us. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-90322214235053492802007-03-09T11:56:00.002-08:002007-03-09T12:03:07.428-08:00Jagmohan Mundhra'In India, we have a hypocritical attutude towards nudity in films'<br /><br />Bombay, 24 May, 2001: Hollywood film-maker Jagmohan Mundhra insisted that he did not make pornographic films. In a Chat that covered topics from films to sexuality to defining pornography, he took pains to explain what his films were all about while also castigating the attitudes of Indians towards sex in films. <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Hi folks, I am here!!<br />hellosexy : Hello SIR..NAMASKAR..I hope u know hindi ..Why do you make porn classics with other heroines and heroes..Are there any porn videos in which you have acted...have you acted nude in any films... I am a gay...please reply at jollyboy15@yahoo.com<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I have never made a porn film; only erotic thrillers. I only say Action and Cut, I don't act in them. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sarath : sir, can i know what ur next venture is?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : My new film is Bawandar (Sandstorm), with Nandita Das in the lead. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />coolguy : sir what do u consider ur classic?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I am very proud of my new film Bawandar. It has won the Best Actress award for Nandita in Santa Monica and won Best Picture in 3 international film festivals. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />SAM : where are you staying currently<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I divide my time between LA and Bombay. Currently I am in Bombay.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />ilove_monsoon : Dear sir How did you manage to make classics like monsoon and modern sex-tales like tainted love at same time<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I am glad u like Tainted Love and Monsoon; have you seen Shades of Gray and Improper Conduct. It is just like making any other film. You have to know the grammar of film making. It is like if you know the English language, you can read Shakespeare as well as the National Enquirer.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sid : hello, i really luv the way u portray women in your films<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I don't like to treat women as victims; they are in charge of their own sexuality.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Darling Jagg : ARE YOU A GAY?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : No I am not gay.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sanjay : sir your date of brithe?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I am a Scorpio, 29 October is my date of birth.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sanjay : kya aap gana gaatey hai?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Nahi, soonne ka shaukh hai!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sid : do ur heroines sleep with u??<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Nahi, purdeh mein rehne do, purdah na uthao!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />chinni : what are ur upcoming films<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : After six months of battle with the Censor Board, I have gotten my film Bawandar cleared without a picture cut; with an A certificate. Anyone who goes to see this film will realise how I have pushed the envelope in Indian cinema. It's hard hitting, excrutiating, riveting, and complex. But you'll come out of the theatre a changed person.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I would like to say that in India, we have this hypocritical attitude towards nudity in films. In American films, like Nine And A Half Weeks, Fatal Attraction, Basic Instinct, Disclosure; even well known stars do love scenes as the story demands it. Here we like to watch them but make snide remarks about them!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sid : no sir we are not being hypocritical, were telling u we luv it, sorry if it came across as anything else<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Thank you. Have you seen Wild Cactus, The Other Woman, The Other Man, Irresistible Impulse? These are some of the other thrillers I am quite proud of. On the other end of the spectrum; have you seen Kamla? <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Sid : sir, do u plan doing a movie with aishwarya rai??<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Everybody wants to do a movie with Aishwarya Rai. The relevant question is does she want to do a movie with me!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />talk : Hi!,Where are you headed from here? What do I get to see from you in the next few years?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : As Jagmohan, I plan to direct several socially relevant films in the next few years. As Jag Mundhra, I may have to do a few thrillers in LA to pay for the ones mentioned above. That is the reality of life.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />HariOm : When will u shave your beard<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I have only shaved it twice in my life! Once when I got married; and once when my grandmother emotionally blackmailed me into doing so. My daughter and my wife love my beard; they won't let me get home if I shaved it off!!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />talk : do you feel that socially relevant films have a good international market? I feel that good indian film makers donot have the skills to market their films abroad like the chinese do. What do you think?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : It took a long time for the Chinese films to be accepted in Hollywood. Indian cinema is on the brink of making that breakthrough. At least now people don't look down upon mainstream Bollywood cinema; they accept it as alternate cultural phenomena. <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />piyush123 : sir who do u think is the most erotic heroine here in bollywood<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Let's just not confine ourselves to erotic because anyone looks erotic when you are in the right frame of mind. There are many beautiful actresses in Bollywood, from Nandita Das who I find extremely attractive to Aishwarya Rai who the whole world found beautiful. There are also pop singers such as Sunita Rao who are absolutely exotic.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />HariOm : Can we get to see the uncut version of Monsoon is it available on CD's<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : A director's cut of Monsoon will soon be availabe on DVD.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />drtushar : bawandar is indeed a bold topic good going mr.mundra but do u think siuch movies amke an impact on our uneducated masses?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : The impact has to be on a trickle down basis. I realise that the masses probably go for escapist entertainment; but cinema is too powerful a medium to only cater one segment. Cinema must also act as a mirror to the ills of society. We have to get out of the ostrich in the sand mentality. My hope is to make engaging cinema which will evoke discussion and not self important ponderous abstract so-called pseudo art cinema. By the same token, irrelevant timepass entertainment is also for me a waste of resources.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />sanjay : aap sigret petey hai aur daru ka seven kartey hai<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : ji nahi. Sirf khane ka shaukeen hoon.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Krish : Your movies has always something related to sex....when can we expect some movie with family values from your side?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Family values need a family; there can be no family without sex! So get over it!!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Parul : Hi, I just have a little query. why is it that our indian art ('serious'?) cinema, insist on using issues which are always if not mostly to do with the poor, the repressed etc? Granted they are rich in 'reality' and 'meaning' but let us not forget that the people who watch and appreciate these films are the elite. As for good cinmena is concerned, I can't recall the name of one director which has done original, creative stuff. Like Tavleen Singh had said in one of her articles (on arundhati roy) - the poor are the constituency to be won (in politics). in art, i think it is a ticket for being taken seriously. what do you think?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : There is truth in what you say. Even though my story deals with gangrape, there are many other layers in this story such as agendas of various people who come to either help the rape victim or hurt her. It addresses the issue which you are talking about without sparing anyone including me, the filmmaker.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />krasyran : sir, whyz sex a taboo in Indian Society ?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Because we are hypocrites who pretend to be holier than thou! We also think of sex as something to be ashamed of; the forbidden desire. This unhealthy attitude sex contributes to sexual crimes such as rape.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J : WHAT PROMPTED U TO MAKE A MOVIE ON RAPE<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : I made this film because the rape victim became a rape activist and her courage inspired me. The film attacks directly without mincing any words the attitudes of feudalism, chauvinism, casteism, and political opportunism. In our country, we do lip service to calling women as 'devis' whereas we treat them like 'slaves'.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />rajesh : WE heard that Censor Board has finally cut only 1 scene from ur film, was it an important scene? will it have any effect on the story of the movie?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Every scene in my film is important to me. From 120,000 feet of film which I shot, I kept 11,500 in the final cut. However, I accepted an audio cut on a joke which some drunken men crack about rape, because the tribunal was kind enough and enlightened enough to pass everything else which the Censor had asked to cut.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />talk : Why have so few indian films made to the Oscars?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : For Oscar nomination in the foreign language category, the Film Federation of India has to nominate one Indian film every year. Sometimes their choices are very curious. Did you know Jeans was nominated for an Oscar from India? <br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />rajesh : HOW do you rate Nandita as n actress? Would you consider her in same league as Shabana Azmi or Smita Patil?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Nandita is one of the reasons why I chose to make a Hindi film on the lines of Kamla after 15 years. She is intelligent, articulate, spontaneous, and talented. I would say that like Shabana and Smita in their times, Nandita is a beacon of hope for realisic cinema. Other actresses who have similar sensibilities are Deepti Naval, Seema Biswas, Mita Vashisht, Rajeshwari Sachdev, Smriti Mishra, Raveena Tandon, and Karisma Kapoor. I am sure there are others who I don't know personally.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />J : DON'T U THINK THE MEDIA SHOULD GIVE MORE ATTENTION TO MOVIES WITH MESSAGE LIKE BAWANDAR RATHER THAN COMMERCIAL CINEMA.COMMENT?SIR?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : It is not just the media; I think the audience should patronise cinema which has something to say as opposed to only flocking for timepass. Time is too valuable a commodity to just let pass.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />krasyran : is pre-marital sex a crime or something that can be accepted by the Indian Society ??<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : It is not a crime. By the same token, any sexual relationship should not be taken casually and lightly because it has several emotional ramifications, especially for women. There is a famous saying: that women give sex to get love; men give love to get sex! In our Indian society, a man with pre-marital sexual experience is considered a stud, whereas a women is considered a slut. This bring backs to our theme of hypocrisy.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />coorgi : WHO WAS THE HEROINE OF YOUR MOVIE DIVINE LOVERS?<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : That is not my film. It was directed by B Subhash.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : Good bye, time to go back to work. Don't forget to see Bawandar, which will release sometime in August.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Mr Jagmohan Mundhra : You can check out details about the the film Bawandar on the bawandar website. <br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-78001228783491878242007-03-09T11:56:00.001-08:002007-03-09T12:01:11.895-08:00Aamir KhanThe Aamir Khan Chat<br /> <br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:42 IST) <br />Hi this is Aamir. How are you going doing? I'm looking forward to having a nice evening. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:44 IST) <br />Ya ya ya I'm here ... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Isha (Sat May 30 1998 9:44 IST) <br />Aamir what do u think is ur best movie so far...what r ur new releases? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:45 IST) <br />Hi Isha, I think my personal favourite is Jo Jeeta... And my next release is Ghulam, which is due on the 19th of June. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Yaji (Sat May 30 1998 9:45 IST) <br />Aamir> Howz Ghulam coming up? Its a Mukesh Bhat's movie. I wouldn't have gone anywhere near it but for you. Why are you acting in so dumb sounding movies? Afterall you act once in a bluemoon? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:46 IST) <br />Yaji: I'm sorry that you find Ghulam a dumb sounding movie. I hope you change your mind after you see it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Antriksh (Sat May 30 1998 9:46 IST) <br />What are the names of your kids, Aamir? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:46 IST) <br />Antariksh: Junaid and Ira. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafe Anees (Sat May 30 1998 9:46 IST) <br />when u started ur career did u anticipate this much success. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:48 IST) <br />Netcafe Anees: When I started my career I didn't really think of success or failure, I was too busy trying to portray my role as Raj in QSQT. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kavita (Sat May 30 1998 9:47 IST) <br />aamir.. planning on a concert out in wash d.c.? *fingers crossed*.. PLEASE say yes! :-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shoeb Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:48 IST) <br />Hello Aamir <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:49 IST) <br />Kavita: Not in the near future, I'm tooo busy right now with my acting assignments. But I enjoy doing shows so hopefully sometime........ <br />and Hi to Shoeb <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Joy Canada (Sat May 30 1998 9:49 IST) <br />Aamir, I loved the scene where you hug your dad after Juhi gets engaged in QSQT <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Yaji (Sat May 30 1998 9:49 IST) <br />Aamir> What went wrong between you and Ram Gopal Verma? He is a terrific director and you would only stand to gain by your friendship!! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:52 IST) <br />Joy Canada: Ya Joy that's one of my favourites too. ............. <br />Yaji: Ram Gopal Varma and I never did share a friendship and I'm SURE I'll miss him as a director. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />saNa (Sat May 30 1998 9:52 IST) <br />Aamir, what do you think of India and Pakistan's nuclear tests?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:53 IST) <br />Sana: To begin with I'm against nuclear arms. I don't know about Pakistan but I'm sure India has more urgent and important things to attend to. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />chutzpah (Sat May 30 1998 9:53 IST) <br />hi amir, well, u've never professed a love 4 computers. if i remember rt, all u do is play chess on them. So how does it feel 2 b xposed 2 this new facet of it? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:55 IST) <br />chutzpah : Its great. I have just started using the Internet and I'm enjoying myself. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Piyush (Sat May 30 1998 9:54 IST) <br />WITH ALL DUE RESPECT, WHY IS IT TAKING SO LONG FOR U TO RESPOND TO THE QUESTIONS, AAMIR. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:56 IST) <br />Piyush: You can blame the person who is typing for me = Suparn <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />HEMAi (Sat May 30 1998 9:55 IST) <br />Hi Aamir, R U MAKING FOOL OF UR FANS THIS IS NOT FAIR ON UR PART. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:56 IST) <br />HEMAi: Why do you feel this way, Hemai? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />madame (Sat May 30 1998 9:56 IST) <br />Aamir: Do you like to watch American films? Is there any particular actor who's acting style you enjoy the most? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 9:58 IST) <br />Madame: Ya I have liked a number of Hollywood films and some of my favourite actors are Tom Hanks, Robert Duvall, Robert De Niro, Harrison Ford to name a few. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> vaibhav (Sat May 30 1998 9:59 IST) <br />aamir: How do u propose to inculcate an element of professionalism and perfectionism in yr' co-stars..? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:0 IST) <br />Vaibhav: I'm trying to lead by example. That's the best I can do:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />madame (Sat May 30 1998 9:59 IST) <br />**glaring at suparn**.....WILL YA TYPE FASTER SUPARN!!!!!:-)))....well..aamir...another question...which actress do you like working with the most?...I mean who do you feel helps you to enhance your performance to the BEST of your abilities??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:2 IST) <br />Madame: Suparn's fingers are flying. A number of actresses are good to work with. To name a few, Madhuri, Juhi, Pooja, Rani Mukherjee, Nandita Das. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />venky (Sat May 30 1998 10:2 IST) <br />Amir, are you doing any film under Subhash Ghai, Pl. reply if not why? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sneha (Sat May 30 1998 10:2 IST) <br />aamir? sob! sob! WON'T YOU SPEAK TO ME? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:3 IST) <br />Venky: Not been offered an exciting script as yet.......... <br />Yes Sneha go ahead............ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Antriksh (Sat May 30 1998 10:2 IST) <br />It must be very tough for you... trying to answer so many people, Aamir. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sneha (Sat May 30 1998 10:3 IST) <br />AAMIR, Please give a special message to your greatest fan-ME! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:5 IST) <br />Antarishk: Yes it's quite confusing but I'm trying to keep up. .............. <br />Sneha: Wishing you all the happiness and success in life <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shabbir Gari (Sat May 30 1998 10:4 IST) <br />Amirji.. what would you do if you would not be in the acting profession? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:6 IST) <br />Shabbir Gari: I would still be in the movies:-) Maybe in some other department. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />sunny (Sat May 30 1998 10:6 IST) <br />Amir I want you to say just a hi to me pls. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:6 IST) <br />Hi Sunny <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />FARAH AND HAMED (Sat May 30 1998 10:6 IST) <br />AAMIR. AM I TOO BORING THAT U R NOT ANSWERING ME.IF SO,I'LL TALK MORE <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:7 IST) <br />Farah and Hamed: Shoot. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Akash USA (Sat May 30 1998 10:7 IST) <br />AAMIR, PLEASE ANSWER MY QUESTION. HAVE PITY ON AN 11- YEAR OLD BOY WHO HAS BEEN WAITING OVER AN HOUR TO TALK TO YOU. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:8 IST) <br />Akash USA: Whats your question Akash?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />saNa (Sat May 30 1998 10:8 IST) <br />AAMIR, did you read "Ice-Candy man"?? and how's Rahul Khanna as an actor?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:9 IST) <br />Sana: Yes I have read Ice Candy Man, and I think its a very good book. Rahul is excellent as an actor and he is a wonderful person too. I really enjoyed working with him. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shoeb Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:9 IST) <br />So tell me about your new project 'Mun' directer Inder Kumar and co-star Manisha .When we aspect to see it MunnaBhai <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:11 IST) <br />Shoeb Khan: 'Mann' is being directed by Indra Kumar and produced by Ashok Thakeria. And Manisha and I play the lead roles. The shooting is due to begin by the end of June. So I think you can expect it sometime next year. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Starstruck (Sat May 30 1998 10:5 IST) <br />Amir do you feel threatened by all the violence and bullying that's on in Bollywood? Have you been at the receiving end? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:12 IST) <br />Starstruck: So far I have been fortunate. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Niranjan (Sat May 30 1998 10:11 IST) <br />AAMIR ..AAJ DINNER ME KYA KHAYA ? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:12 IST) <br />Niranjan: Abhi Tak to kuch nahin khaya. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:12 IST) <br />Aamir: Is Earth Directed by Deepa Metha who directed "Fire" or the Deepa that's Ketan Mehta's wife? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:15 IST) <br />Bruce: Earth, which is titled '1947' for the Indian release, is directed by Deepa Mehta who has also directed 'Fire' and who is no relation of Ketan Mehta......... <br />Jhanvi I wish I was born on the 11th;-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 10:13 IST) <br />Aamir, are there any movies in the pipeline with the other two Khans (SRK and Sallu)? We would love to see The KHAN CLAN together in a movie!!! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:16 IST) <br />Shazia: Shahrukh and I are supposed to be doing a film together to be directed by Raj Kumar Santoshi. Its supposed to start early next year. Lets see. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Renu (Sat May 30 1998 10:15 IST) <br />Aamir, I heard your song Aait kya Khandala and i really liked it..so are you going to sing in any other movies that you have signed...pls answer this one <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:17 IST) <br />Thanks Renu. I doubt I will sing in any other film. The Khandala song required a strong attitude in the singing; that's why I sung it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Starstruck (Sat May 30 1998 10:16 IST) <br />When YOU have time to yourself, what do you do thats most relaxing? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />Starstruck: I enjoy reading, I like being at home and now I like surfing the Net. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />madame (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />okay Aamir...wish I could stay and chat some more...but its kinda of too chaotic for me...GOOD LUCK TO YOU...and we'll be waiting to see your next release! You are a Fine actor!!!:-)) **bye** <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />Bye Madame <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />cherry (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />MR> A KHAN. I HAVE BEEN WANTING TO CHAT WITH U FOR 15 DAYS AND U DON"T EVEN ANSWER. Are u going to do any parallel cinema <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Cherry: My second film was an offbeat film 'Raakh' and I have just completed a film called '1947', due for release in August. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Did anyone ever tell you that you look like Kyle Machlauglan??? (Do you know who he is?) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Bruce: Who on earth is Kyle Machlauglan? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Faisal (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Hi, why do you suddenly talk to the media when a film of yours is releasing? is that what is called being media savvy? are you one too? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />Faisal: It's my professional requirement. I do it for the producer, for the film, not for myself. If it was for myself I would be giving interviews AFTER my releases. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />Aamir: Kyle Machlauglan is a great Hollywood actor. You can see him in films like Dune and Twin Peaks? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:23 IST) <br />I'll make it a point Bruce:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />iLmyIndia (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />hey Amir do u like cricket <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:23 IST) <br />ILMYINDIA: I love cricket. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nishant (Sat May 30 1998 10:23 IST) <br />where all will you be visiting in USA (specifically New York and New Jersey) for Ghulam and when ??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:24 IST) <br />Nishant: I'm supposed to be visiting London and New York for the premiere of Ghulam. London 20 June and New York 21st June. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Riz (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />Amir: have you signed any films with TABU yet??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />Riz: No not yet. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Riz (Sat May 30 1998 10:35 IST) <br />Is RISHTA still on??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Faisal (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Hi, why do you suddenly talk to the media when a film of yours is releasing? is that what is called being media savvy? are you one too? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />Faisal: It's my professional requirement. I do it for the producer, for the film, not for myself. If it was for myself I would be giving interviews AFTER my releases. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Isha (Sat May 30 1998 10:25 IST) <br />How was it working with Rani Mukherjee, Have you ever worked with Kaajol <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:26 IST) <br />Isha: Rani was great to work with and Kajol and I were together in Ishq. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kewl (Sat May 30 1998 10:26 IST) <br />You are an excellent actor. You have not replied to any of my questions even though we are both from Bandra. Am disappointed but will live with it. Will wait for another minute for your reply. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:27 IST) <br />Kewl: Whats your question? I can't let down a fellow Bandraite:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />INSPECTORFOX (Sat May 30 1998 10:27 IST) <br />AAMIR WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DISH? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Archita (Sat May 30 1998 10:27 IST) <br />Aamir....please respond to my questions. I am a DIE HARD fan of yours calling from Hong Kong. Its 1 in the morning over here.......!!!!! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:28 IST) <br />Inspectorfox: Masoor ki Daal. ................ <br />Archita what's your question? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kewl (Sat May 30 1998 10:28 IST) <br />Aamir. Thanks for responding. Want to know who is your role model and what would you like to be remembered for ? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:29 IST) <br />Kewl: I don't have any role models and I would like to loved and respected as an actor. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Starstruck (Sat May 30 1998 10:29 IST) <br />Who are your favourite authors? and Indian scriptwriters? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:31 IST) <br />Starstruck: Enid Blyton, Charles Dickens, Tolystoy, Antoine Saint Exupery, Vyasa, Chanakaya, Agatha Christie, to name a few. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:31 IST) <br />Guys I don't think it's Aamir's fault he can't answer all the questions. (I almost missed his response because everyone is asking so many questions) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:32 IST) <br />Thanks Bruce. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rach (Sat May 30 1998 10:32 IST) <br />dear aap humko chodkar duniya ke sath guftugoooooo kar rahe hain?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:33 IST) <br />Rachsahab: Aap Hain Kahan?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Archita (Sat May 30 1998 10:33 IST) <br />Aamir....please don't let me down. I am here only because I am your DIE HARD fan although I am having my final school leaving exams now.... Are you doing any films with Madhuri, Juhi or Karishma? Why don't you do more add films? Will you answer my letter PERSONALLY if I write to you????/ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:36 IST) <br />Archita: At this point I'm not doing any films with Madhuri, Juhi or Karishma. And I don't think I can do any more work than I'm already doing. Now get back to your studies:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 10:33 IST) <br />Aamir, why aren't you working with any of the top line directors like Mani Ratnam, Yash Chopra, Aditya Chopra, Subhash Ghai, Sooraj Barjatya or David Dhawan? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:34 IST) <br />Shazia: I'd love to work with the directors you have named . I'm also very happy with the directors I'm working with. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /> necafe preethi (Sat May 30 1998 10:37 IST) <br />hows ira & ju7naid oops junaid ?\ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:37 IST) <br />Netcafe Preethi: Don't know :-0 <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Riz (Sat May 30 1998 10:37 IST) <br />Is RISHTA still on??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:38 IST) <br />Riz: Rishta has been shelved instead Indra Kumar and I are doing 'Mann'. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Joy Canada (Sat May 30 1998 10:38 IST) <br />Aamir: Are you a great dad? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:39 IST) <br />Joy Canada: I'm mindblowing:-)*proud grin* <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bhawana (Sat May 30 1998 10:38 IST) <br />hi aamir, who do you thibk is the best actor of all time in bollywood and in hollywood? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />Bhawana: Dilip Kumar <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Visali (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />BYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />See you Visali:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rasulanbai (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />Aamir, just tell your shreemati that Mukul said Hi too her . He was her classmate at Xaviers! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:41 IST) <br />Hi Mukul:-) I'lll definitely pass on the message. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />seema (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />Aamir...can u please answer just one of my questions..and i will rest in peace..pleeease <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Nissi (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />hi amiruncle my name is Nissi and i am 6yrs old.....i am a bigggg fan of urs..... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />Seema, what's your question?......... <br />Hi Nissi how are you doing, I love you too?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nishant (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />Do you know where in New York you'll be visiting?? (sorry about being so insistent but i'd love to see/meet you. i recently met Gillian Anderson (X-Files) so i think my luck is on the rise.) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:43 IST) <br />I don't know where I'm staying in New York Nishant, but either way it will be for just one day. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />FARAH AND HAMED (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />BYE GUYS AND BYE AAMIR.I AM GOING WITH A SAD FACE .AAMIR NEXT TIME PLEASE SAY HI 2 ME .I WILL BE HAVING THE SAME ICON (IF U WANT TO RECOGNIZE ME ). <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:44 IST) <br />Bye FARAH AND HAMED, I couldn't find your question but maybe next time:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Joy Canada (Sat May 30 1998 10:43 IST) <br />Aamir: One last question... have you and Juhi patched up? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:44 IST) <br />There is a time and place for everything Joy. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TXGIRL (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />LOVE U AMIR :^ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:45 IST) <br />TXgirl: I love you too:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mrd (Sat May 30 1998 10:45 IST) <br />do you know that i did a shoot with your team for the movie jjws i.e jo jeeta wohi sikander in kodai i was part of the model school boys <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:46 IST) <br />Hi MRD:-) I remember that schedule and I hope you liked the film when you saw it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:48 IST) <br />Sorry for the break I'm back:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TXGIRL (Sat May 30 1998 10:47 IST) <br />I AM SORRY THAT I DONT KNOW HINDI TO ASK ANY QUES! :( <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />seema (Sat May 30 1998 10:49 IST) <br />Aamir..please answer my question..is there anyone in the industry who u really want to work with but havent had a chance to? please answer this and then i will rest in peace please <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:50 IST) <br />What language do you speak TXgirl?:-)................... <br />Seema: I would like to work with Dilip Kumar. He is my favourite. And also Waheeda Rahman. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafe malavika (Sat May 30 1998 10:49 IST) <br />Amir Khan you are the most worst actor i have seen <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />I'll try and improve, Netcafe Malavika:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafe aarthi (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />i'm really depressed as u haven't even answered one question. atleast say hi to me,it will definitely brighten my spirits. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />Hi netcafe aarthi how you doing?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:52 IST) <br />This is the first time I'm on a chat and I'm finding it difficult to keep pace. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Cherry: My second film was an offbeat film 'Raakh' and I have just completed a film called '1947', due for release in August. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Did anyone ever tell you that you look like Kyle Machlauglan??? (Do you know who he is?) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Bruce: Who on earth is Kyle Machlauglan? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Faisal (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Hi, why do you suddenly talk to the media when a film of yours is releasing? is that what is called being media savvy? are you one too? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />Faisal: It's my professional requirement. I do it for the producer, for the film, not for myself. If it was for myself I would be giving interviews AFTER my releases. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />Aamir: Kyle Machlauglan is a great Hollywood actor. You can see him in films like Dune and Twin Peaks? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:23 IST) <br />I'll make it a point Bruce:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />iLmyIndia (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />hey Amir do u like cricket <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:23 IST) <br />ILMYINDIA: I love cricket. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nishant (Sat May 30 1998 10:23 IST) <br />where all will you be visiting in USA (specifically New York and New Jersey) for Ghulam and when ??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:24 IST) <br />Nishant: I'm supposed to be visiting London and New York for the premiere of Ghulam. London 20 June and New York 21st June. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Riz (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />Amir: have you signed any films with TABU yet??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:18 IST) <br />Riz: No not yet. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Riz (Sat May 30 1998 10:35 IST) <br />Is RISHTA still on??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Faisal (Sat May 30 1998 10:20 IST) <br />Hi, why do you suddenly talk to the media when a film of yours is releasing? is that what is called being media savvy? are you one too? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:22 IST) <br />Faisal: It's my professional requirement. I do it for the producer, for the film, not for myself. If it was for myself I would be giving interviews AFTER my releases. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Isha (Sat May 30 1998 10:25 IST) <br />How was it working with Rani Mukherjee, Have you ever worked with Kaajol <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:26 IST) <br />Isha: Rani was great to work with and Kajol and I were together in Ishq. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kewl (Sat May 30 1998 10:26 IST) <br />You are an excellent actor. You have not replied to any of my questions even though we are both from Bandra. Am disappointed but will live with it. Will wait for another minute for your reply. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:27 IST) <br />Kewl: Whats your question? I can't let down a fellow Bandraite:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />INSPECTORFOX (Sat May 30 1998 10:27 IST) <br />AAMIR WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DISH? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Archita (Sat May 30 1998 10:27 IST) <br />Aamir....please respond to my questions. I am a DIE HARD fan of yours calling from Hong Kong. Its 1 in the morning over here.......!!!!! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:28 IST) <br />Inspectorfox: Masoor ki Daal. ................ <br />Archita what's your question? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Kewl (Sat May 30 1998 10:28 IST) <br />Aamir. Thanks for responding. Want to know who is your role model and what would you like to be remembered for ? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:29 IST) <br />Kewl: I don't have any role models and I would like to loved and respected as an actor. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Starstruck (Sat May 30 1998 10:29 IST) <br />Who are your favourite authors? and Indian scriptwriters? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:31 IST) <br />Starstruck: Enid Blyton, Charles Dickens, Tolystoy, Antoine Saint Exupery, Vyasa, Chanakaya, Agatha Christie, to name a few. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 10:31 IST) <br />Guys I don't think it's Aamir's fault he can't answer all the questions. (I almost missed his response because everyone is asking so many questions) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:32 IST) <br />Thanks Bruce. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rach (Sat May 30 1998 10:32 IST) <br />dear aap humko chodkar duniya ke sath guftugoooooo kar rahe hain?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:33 IST) <br />Rachsahab: Aap Hain Kahan?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Archita (Sat May 30 1998 10:33 IST) <br />Aamir....please don't let me down. I am here only because I am your DIE HARD fan although I am having my final school leaving exams now.... Are you doing any films with Madhuri, Juhi or Karishma? Why don't you do more add films? Will you answer my letter PERSONALLY if I write to you????/ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:36 IST) <br />Archita: At this point I'm not doing any films with Madhuri, Juhi or Karishma. And I don't think I can do any more work than I'm already doing. Now get back to your studies:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 10:33 IST) <br />Aamir, why aren't you working with any of the top line directors like Mani Ratnam, Yash Chopra, Aditya Chopra, Subhash Ghai, Sooraj Barjatya or David Dhawan? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:34 IST) <br />Shazia: I'd love to work with the directors you have named . I'm also very happy with the directors I'm working with. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />necafe preethi (Sat May 30 1998 10:37 IST) <br />hows ira & ju7naid oops junaid ?\ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:37 IST) <br />Netcafe Preethi: Don't know :-0 <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Riz (Sat May 30 1998 10:37 IST) <br />Is RISHTA still on??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:38 IST) <br />Riz: Rishta has been shelved instead Indra Kumar and I are doing 'Mann'. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Joy Canada (Sat May 30 1998 10:38 IST) <br />Aamir: Are you a great dad? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:39 IST) <br />Joy Canada: I'm mindblowing:-)*proud grin* <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bhawana (Sat May 30 1998 10:38 IST) <br />hi aamir, who do you thibk is the best actor of all time in bollywood and in hollywood? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />Bhawana: Dilip Kumar <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Visali (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />BYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />See you Visali:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rasulanbai (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />Aamir, just tell your shreemati that Mukul said Hi too her . He was her classmate at Xaviers! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:41 IST) <br />Hi Mukul:-) I'lll definitely pass on the message. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />seema (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />Aamir...can u please answer just one of my questions..and i will rest in peace..pleeease <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Nissi (Sat May 30 1998 10:40 IST) <br />hi amiruncle my name is Nissi and i am 6yrs old.....i am a bigggg fan of urs..... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />Seema, what's your question?......... <br />Hi Nissi how are you doing, I love you too?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nishant (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />Do you know where in New York you'll be visiting?? (sorry about being so insistent but i'd love to see/meet you. i recently met Gillian Anderson (X-Files) so i think my luck is on the rise.) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:43 IST) <br />I don't know where I'm staying in New York Nishant, but either way it will be for just one day. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />FARAH AND HAMED (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />BYE GUYS AND BYE AAMIR.I AM GOING WITH A SAD FACE .AAMIR NEXT TIME PLEASE SAY HI 2 ME .I WILL BE HAVING THE SAME ICON (IF U WANT TO RECOGNIZE ME ). <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:44 IST) <br />Bye FARAH AND HAMED, I couldn't find your question but maybe next time:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Joy Canada (Sat May 30 1998 10:43 IST) <br />Aamir: One last question... have you and Juhi patched up? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:44 IST) <br />There is a time and place for everything Joy. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TXGIRL (Sat May 30 1998 10:42 IST) <br />LOVE U AMIR :^ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:45 IST) <br />TXgirl: I love you too:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mrd (Sat May 30 1998 10:45 IST) <br />do you know that i did a shoot with your team for the movie jjws i.e jo jeeta wohi sikander in kodai i was part of the model school boys <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:46 IST) <br />Hi MRD:-) I remember that schedule and I hope you liked the film when you saw it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:48 IST) <br />Sorry for the break I'm back:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TXGIRL (Sat May 30 1998 10:47 IST) <br />I AM SORRY THAT I DONT KNOW HINDI TO ASK ANY QUES! :( <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />seema (Sat May 30 1998 10:49 IST) <br />Aamir..please answer my question..is there anyone in the industry who u really want to work with but havent had a chance to? please answer this and then i will rest in peace please <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:50 IST) <br />What language do you speak TXgirl?:-)................... <br />Seema: I would like to work with Dilip Kumar. He is my favourite. And also Waheeda Rahman. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafe malavika (Sat May 30 1998 10:49 IST) <br />Amir Khan you are the most worst actor i have seen <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />I'll try and improve, Netcafe Malavika:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafe aarthi (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />i'm really depressed as u haven't even answered one question. atleast say hi to me,it will definitely brighten my spirits. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />Hi netcafe aarthi how you doing?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:52 IST) <br />This is the first time I'm on a chat and I'm finding it difficult to keep pace. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Joy Canada (Sat May 30 1998 10:52 IST) <br />Aamir: Do you like Ghazals? What do you think of Jagjeet Singh in particular? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:53 IST) <br />Joy Canada: I really enjoy hearing Jagjit Singh. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />abdul (Sat May 30 1998 10:51 IST) <br />i,ve got my exams tomorrow ...i better go to sleep now...well i didnt get any of my answers..don't you have exams too????tomorrow abdul 12 from dubai BBBYYYYYEEEE goooood luck to you <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:54 IST) <br />All the best Abdul. I hope you do well:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafe aarthi (Sat May 30 1998 10:54 IST) <br />aamir i exist u seem to be only chatting with tx girl i'm extremely jealous.:() <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:55 IST) <br />I'm all yours Aarthi <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sapana (Sat May 30 1998 10:56 IST) <br />Hey, Aamir---remember me????????????? I'm here in Kansas right now--where are you ????? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:57 IST) <br />Sapana who?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nadine (Sat May 30 1998 10:16 IST) <br />Dear Aamir- If this is any example of your fans' adoration, how do you deal with the pressure of celebrity? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:58 IST) <br />Where are you from Nadine? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />seema (Sat May 30 1998 10:58 IST) <br />Aamir...will u please say bye to me <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 10:59 IST) <br />I'd hate to say Bye to you Seema:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:0 IST) <br />Hi to all the guys in Netcafe in Madras, I just saw images of you on screen:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nishant (Sat May 30 1998 11:0 IST) <br />what do you think of moviemakers putting f/x into a movie because they can, and not because it has any connection to the storyline (the neck-twisting in ISHQ)?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:1 IST) <br />Nishant: Ishq didn't have a storyline. So there was no way we could add effects to complement it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sneha (Sat May 30 1998 11:1 IST) <br />AAMIR, CAN YOU PLEASE SAAY A SPECIAL HELLO JUST FOR ME? PLEASE? I WOULD LOVE IT! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:2 IST) <br />Special Hi to you Sneha:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafekrish (Sat May 30 1998 11:2 IST) <br />aamir please spend some time with us we have a lady whois 65 yrs who wants to wish you something to you please respond & reply <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:2 IST) <br />Netcafekrish: Go AHEAD <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />singer (Sat May 30 1998 11:2 IST) <br />AAMIR: HELLO, HELLO.. WHAT DO U THINK ABOUT SIVAJI GANESAN in ACTING? JETHRO TULL in Music? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:3 IST) <br />Singer: I haven't seen enough work on Mr Ganesan but I believe he is very good. <br />Tull is my favourite. I love Ian Anderson:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TRINKET FROM DUBAI (Sat May 30 1998 11:4 IST) <br />IF YOU ARE HERE ONLE TO SPEAK TO THE FEMALE SPECIES YOU MAY JUST AS WELL TELL ME NOT TO SQUANDER MONEY ON THE NET???? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:5 IST) <br />TRINKET FROM DUBAI : Trinket I thought you were a female:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />mrd (Sat May 30 1998 11:4 IST) <br />I guess you reply atleast for this question at what age you started playing the drums very curious to know <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:6 IST) <br />MRD: I learnt the drums in 1996, for the live shows I was doing in US, UK, Canada. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Richa (Sat May 30 1998 11:4 IST) <br />Hi Amir ... Richa wants a reply. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:7 IST) <br />Please go ahead Richa:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Netcafeamir (Sat May 30 1998 11:7 IST) <br />Hi Aamir ! when u coming to madras ! to Visit Our netcafe! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:8 IST) <br />Netcafeamir: I was in Madras a few days back to meet Rahman. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafekrish (Sat May 30 1998 11:7 IST) <br />hey aamir this is the words she wanted to tell you , She said it in tamil that what ever you think of doing it dont hesitate to do it, god is there with you. and aamir we are also there <br />aamir i also play the drums <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:9 IST) <br />Netcafekrish: Thanks for the sweet message:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Richa (Sat May 30 1998 11:6 IST) <br />I want to ask you a SOLID question. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:9 IST) <br />Where is Richa's SOLID question? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TRINKET FROM DUBAI (Sat May 30 1998 11:9 IST) <br />DO YOU REALLY FEEL YOU ARE A GREAT ACTOR?? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:11 IST) <br />Trinket: I think I'm not bad, I'm trying my best, I feel I have grown as an actor over the years with each film and I'm happy with that. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 11:10 IST) <br />Aamir, is there a particular thing that you have to have with you when you travel? (mine is my pillow) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:11 IST) <br />Thats amazing Shazia even I travel with my pillow:-)I can't do without it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TXGIRL (Sat May 30 1998 11:11 IST) <br />DOES UR NAME HAVE 2AA OR JUST 1 A JUST ASKIN BUDDY! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:12 IST) <br />TXgirl: 2 As <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />DURDANA (Sat May 30 1998 11:12 IST) <br />HI! AMIR - I HAD FIRST SEEN U IN 1988 IN QSQT AND TODAY I HAVE SEEN U IN ISHQ. MAN U R STILL MY FIRST AND LAST CHOICE EVER AND I HOPE U WILL KEEP UP TO YOUR SWEET AND HONEST IMAGE FOREVER AND EVER WITH CHUNKS OF LOVE <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bumb (Sat May 30 1998 11:12 IST) <br /> to Aamir <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:13 IST) <br />Durdana: Thanks Durdana............ <br />Thanks Bumb <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sneha (Sat May 30 1998 11:12 IST) <br />AAmir, is it true that you watch the first show of your film from the door of the theatre? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:14 IST) <br />Sneha: Yeah. All through the first week of release I see my films with the audience to get a first hand reaction. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Prakash (Sat May 30 1998 11:12 IST) <br />Mr Khan, I see that you're a man of very few words. But I'd still like to know if you have an opinion on anything that concerns people, you know wider things happening around us in the subcontinent like an impending nuclear war. i still curious if you have any opinion on this? Do you care at all or are you just here to be cute? Please Reply <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:16 IST) <br />Prakash: I do have an opinion, Prakash, but on matters such as this I don't think I can comment at short notice. I'm sure you'll agree with me:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sneha (Sat May 30 1998 11:11 IST) <br />AAmir, I do not know how long I will be able to tolerate these people's abuses. I just want to tell you one thing. I WISH YOU THE BEST IN LIFE. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:16 IST) <br />Be brave Sneha:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />arun (Sat May 30 1998 11:15 IST) <br />Amir I am sorry but I trapped you. You were not replying to me when I wrote as Arun, but Richa trapped you. Anyway, if I were not a Software guy, I might have been an Actor like you, but if you were not an Actor would you be a software guy like me ? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:18 IST) <br />Arun how do I know you are not Richa right now pretending to be Arun pretending to be Richa?:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 11:18 IST) <br />Aamir: For Ghulam, wasn't Pooja Bhatt supposed to be in the film? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:18 IST) <br />Bruce: Yes Pooja was in Ghulam originally. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 11:18 IST) <br />Aamir, what kind of fruit do you think you resemble the most? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:19 IST) <br />Shazia; Mango do you think? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nishant (Sat May 30 1998 11:20 IST) <br />Just curious, knowing your intellectual bent of mind. Do you watch the X-files??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:20 IST) <br />Nishant: No I don't watch X-Files <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Neetu (Sat May 30 1998 11:20 IST) <br />Namasthe, Aamirji! My name is Neetu, and I have admired your work since the beginning of your career. I have just one ? for you: based on your experiences in the filmi world, would you ever allow your children to enter the Bollywood business? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:21 IST) <br />Neetu: No business is good or bad; it's the people involved. And the people involved in any business belong to the same society that we live in. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rach (Sat May 30 1998 11:12 IST) <br />AAMIR WHY R U SOOOO INQUISITIVE ABOUT RICHA'S SOLID QUESTION????? RINA IS ON THE NET TOOOOOOO!!! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:24 IST) <br />Rachji, Aag lagana band kijiye! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Richa (Sat May 30 1998 11:24 IST) <br />Would you like to play chess with me ? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:25 IST) <br />Richa/Arun I would love to:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Zeba (Sat May 30 1998 11:23 IST) <br />WHAT'S IN YOUR NAME!!! <br />Aamir <br />Your name of Aamir has some fine qualities, and gives you the desire to understand and help others with their problems but at the same time you become involved in their problems and, as a result, worry too much. This name creates a pleasant, easy-going, yet responsible nature. It gives you a natural ability to express affection to those close to you, without feelings of embarrassment. You tend to avoid issues, however, and put off until tomorrow the things which should be done today. Accordingly, you would find difficulty in achieving success in positions requiring aggressiveness and drive. Also, you prefer to avoid strenuous work of a manual nature. Your natural inclination is to pursue a line of work where you have contact with people, where you carry some responsibility, and where you are engaged in mental rather than physical activity. You are diplomatic in your handling of people and always give others the benefit of the doubt. You appreciate good music and art. The health weaknesses created by this name affect the fluid functions. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:27 IST) <br />Thanks for the info Zeba:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:28 IST) <br />I have got another five minutes online guys. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 11:29 IST) <br />Why didn't you go to the filmfare awards to get your trophy for Raja Hindustani??? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:30 IST) <br />Bruce: I haven't been going for the FilmFare awards for the last 5 years now. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />nadine (Sat May 30 1998 11:30 IST) <br />Aamir- I know you have to go soon, so thanks for being here. When I rented Ishq last week it broke my VCR, so this makes up for it. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:31 IST) <br />Nadine: I'm sorry Ishq had such a strong impact on your VCR! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 11:31 IST) <br />Aamir, What is your opnion about awards? I still remember that the Filmfare sensational debut award was introduced due to your popularity. But, when you got the award for RH how come you were not at the ceremony? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:32 IST) <br />Shazia: The Filmfare awards have lost value for me, there are too many inconsistencies and I prefer to stay away. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />TXGIRL (Sat May 30 1998 11:32 IST) <br />HAVE TO GO NOW I ONLY GOT 20 SECONDS NOW <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:33 IST) <br />Bye Txgirl:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Sneha (Sat May 30 1998 11:33 IST) <br />BYE AAMIR! LOVE YA! HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON IN REAL LIFE! THANX FOR MAKING MY NIGHT AND MY LIFE! <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:34 IST) <br />Bye Sneha sweetdreams:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Shazia (Sat May 30 1998 11:33 IST) <br />Aamir, now that there are other awards besides Filmfare (Zee Cine, Screen) would you accept the awards from them? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:34 IST) <br />Shazia: I don't go to any awards function. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Seerina (Sat May 30 1998 11:34 IST) <br />Aamir: You haven't said goodbye to me? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:35 IST) <br />Seerena: I'm not through with you yet;-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Maulana (Sat May 30 1998 11:34 IST) <br />Amir Khan has got a mole on his inside groin <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:36 IST) <br />Maulana:-)I think you are a really sweet chap Maulana <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />kits (Sat May 30 1998 11:36 IST) <br />Please Aamir...show some mercy... are you going to act for manirathnam? <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:36 IST) <br />Kits: If he has a script which excites me. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Richa (Sat May 30 1998 11:36 IST) <br />are you thru with me <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:37 IST) <br />How can you say that Richa/Arun;-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />necafe preethi (Sat May 30 1998 11:38 IST) <br />aamir just a smile <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:38 IST) <br />Preethi See you guys:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />bruce (Sat May 30 1998 11:39 IST) <br />Aamir is the best actor and BEST PERSON in Bollywood... I hope you see this Aamir... <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:39 IST) <br />Thanks Bruce:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />netcafekrish (Sat May 30 1998 11:34 IST) <br />aashish kapoor is waiting to see your message <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:40 IST) <br />Hi Ashish I just saw you on my screen:-) <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Ricky (Sat May 30 1998 11:40 IST) <br />Aamir, since you have not spoken to me at all; alli will do is wish you all the best in your career and hope that it brings you immense satisfaction; may awards line the road that you walk on and may success lie at your feet. That's all from me, your greatest fan (who has the same bday as you), Ricky...... Bye and all the best <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:41 IST) <br />Bye Ricky wishing you all the happiness and success in life. <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Aamir Khan (Sat May 30 1998 11:43 IST) <br />Bye guys it was great talking to you all, wishing you'll, all the happiness and success in life be good take care and have fun. Love Aamir~~~~~~*waving~~~~~ <br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8865254829667391240.post-35783737397742201042007-03-09T11:56:00.000-08:002007-03-09T11:57:56.421-08:00M Night Shyamalan'I have an open mind on the idea of ghosts'<br /><br />Philadelphia, December 19, 2030 hours IST (1000 hours EST): Manoj Night Shyamalan, extremely busy, did the Chat from his residence. <br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Nice to be talking to everyone, this is the first time I have done something liuke this. It's gonna be a fun experience<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Razor : Dear Manoj where did the germ of Unbreakable happen? Was it to give a totally new perspective and angle to the superhero concept? Will we be seeing David Dunn return or its the end of his story on the screen? Though Elijah is a character I will sorely miss, does the writer in you miss him?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Razor: The idea for the story was that it was the story of a real man who may realise one day that he may be a real life version of a superhero. I am not sure sure if I'm writing him again, I may have to think up of a story to do a story of him again. Elaijah ...I had such a great time writing him, I guess that would be what I would miss the most.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Xrayvision : Ever had any supernatural experiences of your own? And do you believe in ghosts?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Xrayvision: I'm open minded to the idea of ghosts. I definitely have moments when I'm viewing things, I dont like being in old houses, it is basically about dealing with the dead and seeing people and things you know.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Melanie : Hi Manoj I was reading your interview where you said that surprise ending angle happened only at the end, can you please explain it further<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Melanie: In both the films the surprise happened at the ending of the film, when I was looking deep in the film and the endings came out off that...<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Rajeev : Hi Manoj before Sixth Sense happened how did you handle your frustrations and angst? Was it really hard trying to break into Hollywood? Lastly are the Oscarwallah's baised against Indians?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Rajeev:1] It was a difficult path to get accepted, the succesess were small between a lot of failure and even now between two successful movies, it is probably one of those things that no matter where you are, you have to deal with ups and downs but you have to have a thick skin. As to the Oscars I dont think they are baised towards Indians. My last movie was technically a horror movie, and this one is a comicbook movie and Bruce Willis is an actor who doesn't get attention during Oscar time however if I make a movie about India's winning its Independence I'd probably get an Oscar. Though Frank Darabont got nominated for The Shawshank it wasn't exactly a horror movie. And his nomination this year for The Green Mile was more a carryover of his previous nominations.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Rahul : Hi Manoj, when Speilberg started out he became huge commercially with his child-in-you films, and later moved on to the adult audience segment, whereas you are catering directly to the adult market, or are we going to see more work like Stuart Little? And is the Indiana Jones film actually happening? if yes what is it about?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Rahul: I'm trying to do a mix of films. I try to do it not just for adults. I try to do it between my commericials movies and try to do both the movies at the same time. Though you wont see Stuart Little again because that was for my daughter and the draft I wrote was much more serious. And as for Indiana Jones we are still talking dunno when it will happen and what is it about? Its about a guy with a whip!:-)<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rediff.com: Both the lead characters in Sixth Sense and Unbreakable share a very strong love for their wives. One loves her so much that his life cycle completes the circle only after he has finished what he wanted to say, in Unbreakable he loves her so much that he gives up football for his wife and subconciously supresses his powers. <br /><br />Why are your male counterparts so selfless and sacrifing in their love to their wives? Do they also reflect the husband in you?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : rediff: Yeah that is a very insightful analysis of the two characters, I guess my continuing effort to be a good husband and good a father. So my movies and my characters reflect a part of movie just that was David Fincher's movies reflect who he is and David Soddenberg movies reflect who he is.....<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rediff.com: Wide Awake dealt with a boy trying to search for God, Sixth Sense was about two individuals coming to terms with certain facts of their life or lack of it with death being the framework, Unbreakable again deals with a mans near invincibility to death. <br /><br />Why does death play such a strong character in your films? What is your idea of death and have you been able to come to terms with your mortality?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : rediff.com: I mean basically all the movies are about cherishing life and how the death of someone makes you evaluate your life and it is definitely an issue on my mind, its always been there...not sure why. I guess its a complicated answer<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Vivek: Did you name yourself Night because you were going to write all these dark grim stories?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Vivek: It wasnt as calculated as all that it was just that I read a book about an American Indian and I felt very strongly about that culture and I felt warm towards the name. It had a mystery and romance and a virtuality to it that I thought would come out as I became an adult and it has come out, it is like in some Indian cultures where a woman marries a man she changes her name, so it was wierd like I became a colorful character. Today when I'm on the street, someone calls me Night it feels nice. Manoj is associated with my childhood, I feel like a child when you call me Manoj. Though it has a lot of warmth and love to it.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Gracie: Any plans of making a Hindi film?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : Gracie: No plans in the near future I dont know much about that style of filmmaking, it is something I wanna learn about but I'm a novice when it comes to understanding that language<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rediff.com: Both Sixth Sense and Unbreakable have surprise endings, the former had a brilliantly clever narrative structure while the latter is fiendishly clever when it examines a totally different aspect of a superhero. A man who doesn't know his strength discovers his superpower which is orchestrated by the supervillian. It is almost like the story of Clark Kent discovering his superpowers when he is 35. <br /><br />Is this going to be a permanent aspect in your films? Or will you attempt simple subject matter without surprise endings?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : rediff.com I dont wanna make decisions for my lifetime I wanna take it a movie at a time. A revelation at the end of the movie is something I have enjoyed, like Pyscho and Planet of the apes, I tried it even in Praying with anger. But one thing I will try to do in my next film is that I would like to do a revelation is my film and the one after that but the worry is that I may get streotypoed <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rediff.com: Can you please describe your process and style of writing? I know this sounds like what came first the chicken or the egg:-) But does the idea come in form of a thought 'what if a girl tormemed for having her periods in the girls shower and not knowing about it also had the gift of telekinesis'? or does it come in the form of a visual that stays with you and tells you an entire story? Do you write on a computer or write by hand?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : rediff.com: It comes with an idea stuck with an emotion, like Unbreakable it came with a regular guy with a regular family realising his supernatural ability, each film is different I mean I'm very wierd about it, it has to be the right time, the right rooom, for Unbreakable I wrote by hand and kept all the papers, for Sixth Sense I wrote by hand and then write on a computer which worked out, and I write on different computers because there is such an emotion involved which each act of writing that each computer holds the memory of that particular script.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />rediff.com: You were quite bummed when Sigmata of all films ended The Sixth Sense's five week run as No#1 at the BO. But the fact that Lost in Space bumped off Titanic was an consolation. But this year Grinch refuses to let you reach the top. What is your reaction?<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : rediff.com: That was the comment at that time, to have a film which is No1 film of the year and stuck there and I'm as unlucky as I was the last time, for 12 weeks we didnt see any good movie, and then when Unbreakable came out, a jaggearnuat of films came out. Had we been No 1 at Thanksgivings , we would have been big but Grinch came out. like we came out for Blair Witch and this will happen in my career, you get squashed and run over but then it happens <br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />M Night Shyamalan : thank you very much for your interesting questions I had a great time. Bye bye<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------EelveEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343357520043384445noreply@blogger.com0