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Mea Culpa

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Sanjay Cherian

 

He narrated three draft concepts – each unique, engrossing and enviably out-of-the box.

“Why don’t you make these into movies, Sir?”, I asked.

“Because ‘they’ say the audience wouldn’t accept them” – “they” being the so-called pundits of cinema – the producers, directors, writers. It’s “they” who unfortunately decide if a movie is to be canned or not.’

I was sitting in Mr. Kamalhassan’s office. I would call it one of the most precious days of my life. No, not for the reason you think – being in the company of a star the whole of India would kill to get a glimpse of – no, but for the contagious energy which made me raring to go, for the youthful zest which made me look old in comparison for the umpteen numbers of screenplay techniques I learned from him in less than 6 hours.

The thirst for innovation was written all over him! It got me thinking – is it just Mr. Kamalhassan? Is it just he who wants to do movies which throw conventions to the winds? I don’t think so! I have seen similar fire in Mr. Mammootty. The man transforms into an enthusiastic teenager the moment you show him the willingness to boot out the clichés. Did I hear the inevitable? “Then why are they doing mediocre movies?” Because they have no choice. They have to choose the lesser evil – not the better of the best. Who is to blame, I ask myself and the answer is – I am to blame.

Trust me, no actor in the industry desires to do a senseless role. When they do one, they know they are doing one. Fortunately or unfortunately, when such a movie succeeds, they are forced to do churn-outs from the same recipe again and again. And I, the scriptwriter laments, “I can’t break rules because the audience needs the conventional.” I would go on to quote examples of hundreds of run-of-the-mill stuff which made it big at the box office. But who are these audiences? How many among the three odd crores do I know personally? Come on, I don’t even know what my best friend’s favorite dessert is but I unabashedly lecture on what people out there, whom I haven’t even seen, really want. In introspection, well, that is just pathetic!

I have had movie goers come up to me, with sarcastically raised eyebrows, arguing how such & such a scene in one of the movies could have been so illogical. I’ve had one laughing at me in a crowded mall (yes, that was embarrassing) for writing a scene which had a factual error. I’ve had them asking why their favorite actors are letting them down by acting in movies which even their 10 year old finds ridiculous! I can hardly reply – because you want it! No, they don’t! No, the actors don’t! It’s me the writer and my laziness to tread the untrodden path that leaves the ordinary Malayali cheated out of the magic of the movies!

Sometimes it is because I don’t have the time – I am committed with movies which I have to finish writing by next Christmas. That gives me just three months to finish a script. I can hardly afford to write rough drafts before the final one. Even when I am not very okay with a scene that I have written, I let it pass for the fear of the three other scripts dangling over my head like Damocles swords, demanding to be finished. And naturally and inevitably I leave out the research. This leads to a character who takes over as District Collector a day after he has cleared his IAS examination or India’s top lawyer who wins a complicated case with elementary commonsensical arguments.

And sometimes, it could be that I just don’t have the talent – I can’t think of anything new (or don’t feel the need to) because I am stuck with some 2000 odd images from movies I have seen and got inspired by. I just follow the rules – Mohanlal has to have a punch line; Mammootty has to have the last word; and the heroine has to fall in love – even if the hero has slapped and insulted her (in fact, sometimes it is a pre-requisite). I am the very contended frog who has no desire for the sea even though it knows that it is out there. I try to make myself believe that the blueness, vastness and depth of the ocean are highly over-estimated. I am afraid to try to swim there.

Yes, we all dream of making our Rashomons and being immortalised. If only that is what the producers and directors and most importantly the audiences wanted! We’ll never know till we try, will we?

The author is a notable Script writer whose writing has changed the face of Malayalam movie industry.

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A Nostalgic Journey Through Love &Cinema : Best Bollywood Romantic 90s Movies

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As we reminisce about the golden era of Bollywood cinema, the 90s stand out as a time when romance reigned supreme on the silver screen. From epic love stories to heartwarming tales of passion and longing, 90s Bollywood movies have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. If you’re in the mood for some classic romance this vacation, here’s a curated list of the best Bollywood romantic movies from the 90s that are guaranteed to make you swoon and fall in love all over again.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995):

Directed by Aditya Chopra, this iconic film starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol is a timeless masterpiece that continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. With its unforgettable love story, breathtaking scenery, and soul-stirring music, “DDLJ” is a must-watch for romantics of all ages.

Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994):

Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, this beloved family drama starring Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit is a celebration of love, tradition, and togetherness. With its vibrant song and dance sequences, endearing characters, and heartwarming storyline, “Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!” remains a cherished favorite among Bollywood fans.

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998):

Directed by Karan Johar, this romantic drama starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji is a quintessential love triangle that tugs at the heartstrings. With its catchy music, stylish costumes, and memorable dialogues, “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” is a nostalgic journey back to the 90s era of Bollywood romance.

Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999):

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this epic love story starring Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Ajay Devgn is a cinematic masterpiece that explores the complexities of love and sacrifice. With its grandiose sets, soulful music, and powerful performances, “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences.

Rangeela (1995):

Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, this romantic musical starring Aamir Khan, Urmila Matondkar, and Jackie Shroff is a colorful and vibrant ode to love and dreams. With its foot-tapping music, electrifying dance sequences, and captivating performances, “Rangeela” is a delightful blend of romance, drama, and entertainment.

As you embark on a nostalgic journey through the best Bollywood romantic movies of the 90s, prepare to be swept away by timeless love stories, unforgettable melodies, and iconic moments that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Whether you’re a die-hard romantic or simply in search of cinematic escapism, these timeless classics are sure to make your vacation a memorable and magical experience. So, grab some popcorn, snuggle up with your loved ones, and let the magic of 90s Bollywood romance transport you to a world of love, laughter, and happily ever afters.

 

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Events

Celebrity Muses at Lakme Fashion Week 2024

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Celebrities from Bollywood create a lot of buzz every year when they appear in fashion shows as the faces of up-and-coming or established designers in the nation. Lakme Fashion Week is one such event where a large number of Bollywood designers participate. As anticipated, the LFW roster this year had a number of well-known names and was stylish as well. Numerous well-known figures, including Madhuri Dixit and Ananya Panday, sashayed down the ramp. Let’s examine a few of the most well-known figures seen this season on the ramp.

Ananya Pandey

Ananya Panday looked amazing on the catwalk as she paired an off-the-shoulder black petal dress with high-rise leather boots. Wearing a long ponytail and walking confidently, she looked stunning for designer Rahul Mishra.

Aditya Roy Kapur and Janhvi Kapoor

Walking for fashion brand Kalki, Janhvi Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur took the show on the road. Aditya Roy Kapur was spotted wearing a black sherwani with embellishments, while Janhvi Kapoor sported an off-the-shoulder silk shirt and a maroon mermaid skirt.

Madhuri Dixit

Madhuri Dixit wore a gorgeous black floral co-ord set with a stylish blazer that gave off business woman vibes for Ranna Gill. She accessorized with modest locks and maroon lips for a neutral makeup look. 

Shanaya Kapoor

On the other hand, Shanaya Kapoor was spotted walking the ramp for Anamika Khanna while sporting an oversized white shirt with embroidered details and high-rise boots.

Tripti Dimri

Tripti Dimri graced the ramp for Shantnu and Nikhil donning an exquisite floor-length silver skirt paired with a sleeveless black top, a chic belt, and a magnificent set of hand gloves. 

Tapsee Pannu

As she walked for Gauri & Nainika, Tapsee Pannu was also seen on the ramp wearing a gorgeous bodycon gown with a mermaid cut end.

Malaika Arora

Malaika Arora spun around in a gorgeous pastel lehenga adorned with golden flower embroidery while she walked the Lakme Fashion Week runway for Anushka Reddy.

Rakul Preet

Rakul Preet, the newest bride in town, was also spotted on the ramp, walking for Ritika Mirchandani while sporting a white crop top and a skirt with a high thigh slit.

Aditi Rao Hydari

In Nirmooha’s ‘Ekatra’ collection, Aditi Rao Hydari embodies royalty as she explores individualism with dark purple coordinated outfits embellished with geometric designs and a dash of shine. 

Divya Khosla

In Rajdeep Ranawat’s opulent ‘Nizam’ collection, which is made of silk and features vintage accents, Divya Khosla looks stunning. The collection is inspired by the grandeur of Lucknow and the royal jewels of Hyderabad.  

Sara Ali Khan

Varun Chakkilam’s ‘Lenora’ collection, which combines modern style with Hyderabadi cultural aspects in pearl grey embroidered lehengas, features Sara Ali Khan flashing burn marks.

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Events

Lakme Fashion Week Day 2 Highlights

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From March 13 to 17, Lakme Fashion Week was held at the famous Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, which is situated in the center of the Bandra Kurla Complex. Lakme Fashion Week 2024 covered every genre, with an insightful and diverse list of designers showcasing their work. Collections included haute couture, street style, country wear, gothic vampire inspired, 1800s cowboy tribes, Indian bridal, Venetian tea party, and Victorian gowns. It’s time to break down some of the major SS’24 fashion trends as fashion week just ended. Sustainable Fashion Day, held on Day 2 of Lakme Fashion Week in collaboration with FDCI, featured some incredibly stunning runway looks. 

Til, Yavi, and Inca’s Collection

With their current collection, Inca, Til, and Yavi showcased sustainable design with clothing that promised both unparalleled comfort and glamour. In her role as Inca India’s show stopper, actor Dia Mirza dominated the show. Wearing an opulent all-black suit from their “Love is a Verb” collection, Mirza strutted down the runway. The collection complemented the concept of the event and was influenced by traditional artisan skills and repurposed materials.

Gaurang Shah’s Designs in Pink Hues

Gaurang’s “Gulaal” Lakme Fashion Week Spring/Festive collection. Lehengas and sarees with long-forgotten embroidery, such as Mochi, Parsi Gada, Petite Point, Kasuti, Phulkari, Kutch, and Kashmiri, were featured in the collection in the adaptable color pink.

Tea Cultures of the World x Chola 

With a focus on inclusivity and authenticity, Chola by Sohaya Misra and Tea Culture of the World honoured the merging of fashion and tea culture, embodying confidence, individualism, and empowerment. The collection’s runway was lit up by actresses Neha Dhupia and Konkona Sensharma’s stunning walks in black and white costumes.

U’Core by Urvashi Kaur

In Urvashi Kaur’s U’Core, contrasting selvedges were prominently featured. Her mother, Anupama Singh, along with notable models like Ratna Pathak Shah, Tillotama Shome, Rasika Dugal, Mallika Dua, Faraz Ansani, Shweta Tripathi, and Santanu Hazarika, showcased the collection’s artistry through stitch line details and hand block printing.

R|Elan X JJV Kapurthala

On Day 2 of Sustainable Fashion Day at Lakme Fashion Week, style and sustainability were guaranteed by the R|Elan X JJV Kapurthala collection. JJV incorporates ethical practices into its design philosophy in a seamless manner, improving garment performance and decreasing textile waste.

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