Legendary musings

If it's your belief that Indian cinema is nothing more than mainstream Hindi movies,think twice. The essence of regional cinema definitely has a global appeal.

If it’s your belief that Indian cinema is nothing more than mainstream Hindi movies,think twice. The essence of regional cinema definitely has a global appeal. What is needed is a proper marketing strategy,good financial support and subtitling to showcase regional cinema not only on the global scene but also across the country.

This was the opinion expressed by legendary actress and censor board chief Sharmila Tagore,who was in Pune for the premier of her first Marathi film Samantar directed by Amol Palekar.

If the producers get their economics right,it will be hugely encouraging for the promotion of regional cinema, said Tagore. She said regional cinema should go beyond film festivals and reach audiences across the country. If one has to see a Malayalam or Bengali movie,one shouldnt have to go to Venice or some other place to watch it, she says.

If the regional movies are subtitled in English,I dont think there will be any issue in understanding the language, adds Tagore. Incidentally,Samantar,which has English sub-titles,is going to be released not only in the major cities of Maharashtra but also in Chennai,Bangalore,Kolkata and Delhi.

Tagore is elated about her first Marathi film,though she says she had a hard time learning the language. Yes,it was tough,but as I could understand the essence of the script,I could follow it. Moreover,having lived in Mumbai,the language was not alien for me, she says.

As for what made Tagore do a Marathi film,she says it was her long association with Amol Palekar. He is a wonderful artiste and I have much respect for him as an actor and director too. The music of his films has always been good and he makes his actors really look good, smiles Tagore,as she signs off.

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