Showman Subhash Ghai, the man behind many a Bolly blockbuster — Karz to Karma, Hero to Ram Lakhan, Pardes to Taal — was a special guest of YFLO (Young Ficci Ladies Organisation) for “The Director’s Cut with Subhash Ghai” at The Park, recently. Even though he didn’t rise to the audience’s “gossip” bait, the 70-year-old had them in splits from the get-go, even using the table in front of him to play the tabla and entertain the 250-strong gathering. “The turnout was fantastic. We had people from various age groups and we all had a good connect with him. He gave out a motivational message by sharing moments close to his heart. We will try to get more such achievers from various walks of life in future,” said YFLO chairperson Shradha Agarwaal. t2 took notes from the 60-minute session.
His beginnings: My father was a doctor. He wanted me to become a chartered accountant. Those days, parents decided the future of their children. I always thought: ‘Bhagwan, iss baap ke yahan kyun paida ho gaya?!’ But later, after finishing BCom when I told him finally that I am interested in acting in films, he sent me to the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune. He wanted me to enter the film industry with proper training. Then I thought, ‘Bhagwan, mujhe sahi baap ke yahan paida kiya!’
His dream: At Whistling Woods Institute (the film institute in Mumbai founded by Ghai), we have a huge responsibility to make better quality cinema. We have to upgrade ourselves. I always wanted to build a huge educational institute. Before making it, I took brochures and prospectus from various film schools in the world to read and research about the courses.
His love for music: We play music if we are sad. We play music when we are happy. For very occasion, we play music because music is a language. It creates vibrations of love and joy. It elevates feelings and has a huge power on human mind, body and soul. I enjoy music. There was a time when I would listen to music 24 hours a day. It has been a part of my life.
His wow moment: Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar met my ailing father when they had come for the success party of Hero. My father was a huge fan of Raj Kapoor saab. He had tears in his eyes when Raj Kapoor saab met him personally and touched his feet.
His obsession with M [Madhuri, Manisha, Meenakshi, Mahima...]: I believe in certain things in life. But this is just a coincidence... it’s not a superstition. When I made Yaadein with Kareena Kapoor, I didn’t change her name... nor did I change Katrina Kaif’s name in Yuvvraaj.
His cameos in his own films: I just come in for a shot. I had told my father that I want to become an actor... that’s why I do it! (Laughs)
A T2 SNAPCHAT WITH GHAI ON THE SIDELINES
You really seemed to connect with the YFLO audience...
When I started my speech, I made it clear that I wanted to have a heart-to-heart chat. The audience was receptive. I didn’t talk as a showman or as a politician or as a successful man. I spoke to them like one of them which they appreciated.
What is special about the women of Calcutta?
Women here are strong mothers. Calcutta women are beautiful. They give you a positive energy which is a combination of many devis.
How was the Malaysia experience, being awarded for Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema at the IIFA Awards?
I have gained two kilos! (Laughs) Getting an award (right) and khana-peena itna ho gaya! Ek kilo khaane ka aur ek kilo khushi ka! (Laughs out loud)
The Hero remake with Sooraj Pancholi and Athiya Shetty will release this year and Karan Johar is set to remake Ram Lakhan. How does that make you feel?
It’s a huge compliment when somebody decides to remake your films. I feel flattered and blessed.
If you remake one of your own films, which it would be and why?
If at all, I would make Khal Nayak 2 (Khal Nayak in picture). I keep wondering what happens to Sanjay Dutt’s character (Ballu Balram) after he comes out of jail. Interesting, na? Even in the remake, I would want Sanjay Dutt and Madhuri Dixit to be cast.
Who among the young stars has the most potential?
The one who has huge luck behind him or her! Somebody can get bad scripts now, but then after a while if he or she gets good scripts... so I can’t take names! I always like to watch good stories. I never go for actors.
You visit various educational institutes to teach films. What’s your impression of the youth of our country?
They may not be more intelligent than me, but they are more knowledgeable and informed. There is an exchange of ideas. I treat them as friends.
You have done so many films with Madhuri Dixit. Your take on the recent Maggi controversy she’s been dragged into?
It’s childish!
