Winning words

But isn’t AR Rehman,the music composer of Jai Ho,among the most technically sound musician in India? “A lot of music is produced through technology. I am not saying that it is a bad thing. But a boost to classical art forms is necessary. Out of the hundreds of channels ontelevision today,there is not even one that is devoted to Indian classical music and dance,” he adds.

When Gulzar does talk about Slumdog,it is only to take on the critics who’ve panned the film for showcasing India’s poverty. “This is something really silly. What will you say about the cinematic masterpieces like Pather Panchali and the Apu trilogy by Satyajit Ray,who also won an Oscar,and a film like Mother India?” Now that the Congress has adopted Jai Ho as their poll slogan,Gulzar shakes off any credit: “Jai Ho as a phrase has been used by the common man of India for ages. The Congress hasn’t taken any of my words. As far as the tune is concerned,it is Rehman’s and I am sure the copyright issues are sorted out,” he says.

A sensitive filmmaker and lyricist,Gulzar has spent more than five decades in the film industry,enough to tackle any pressure that the Oscar win might create in terms of expectation. “Let’s see. Something may come up,” he says nonchalantly about his future projects.