By Hindustan Times
Bollywood director Rohit Shetty of Singham fame says he's not interested by talking about his exertions. "I'VE BEEN looked down upon by my colleagues and media and do not discuss my exertions". He was speaking on sunday during a panel discussion organised by students of Subhash Ghai's film school Whistling Woods International in Mumbai.
The discussion was hung on the second one day of a movie festival organised by the scholars to celebrate 100 years of Indian cinema. Director R Balki of Paa fame, Amol Gupte, who's known for his work in Taare Zameen Par and Ishqzaade director Habib Faisal were the opposite directors who sat at the panel. The discussion was moderated by film critic Rajeev Masand.
Talking about his peers, Rohit went directly to say how courageous they've been with a purpose to make their films. "All three of them are braver than me. I MIGHT never have made my directorial debut with Rishi Kapoor within the lead," he said referring, to Habib's's film Do Dooni Chaar. "I'D have also not handled a sensitive subject like that of Taare Zameen Par or Amitabh Bachchan within the role of Auro, for Paa," he added. Known for his Golmaal series and Singham, Rohit is regarded as as a director who makes sequels and remakes by many. Defending his colleague, director Habib spoke concerning the exertions required to make a remake. "THE ONE thing available for a remake is the script. Everything else must be done," he said.
Another major issue addressed by the panel was the difficulties faced by writers today. They were of the opinion that writers weren't given the consideration they deserved. "Writers are an extraordinary commodity today. They do not get the dignity which they deserve. We still don't value them," Balki said. The panel discussion was hung on the last day of the festival and veteran actress Hema Malini was present for the closing ceremony in conjunction with music composer Anu Malik. "THERE ARE SUCH A LOT OF filmmakers who came and went but only Subhash Ghai considered keeping something for the approaching generation. I'M sure you all are doing very well," she said.
