Screen time

I have been a part of Screen for over a decade,yet the paper completing 60 solid years amazes me.

I have been a part of Screen for over a decade,yet the paper completing 60 solid years amazes me. I feel proud to be associated with a publication that is creating history. I joined this film weekly when Rauf Ahmed was the editor and Screen was in the process of going through a transition from a broadsheet to a tabloid. There was a lot of excitement about the paper entering a new phase and apprehension about its acceptance by the film fraternity.

Since I was new,these things did not concern me. My interest was in proving myself to Rauf who I had heard was very particular about stories and style of writing. When the tabloid was launched,I thought it had a great visual appeal and interesting content. However after a short stint,it had to go back to its original avatar because the industry had a strong association with the broadsheet. That also brought back Udaya Tara Nayar as the editor. A pleasant and soft-spoken lady,it was a pleasure working with her.

It was during her time that Screen stepped into its golden jubilee year. The team was given a list of actors from whom we had to to get quotes for the 50th anniversary. I ambitiously chose Amitabh Bachchan. All my colleagues were shocked because till then I hadnt interacted with any film star,as I was covering television. Undeterred,I duly followed up with Bachchans secretary,who promised to contact me with the date nad time. So,imagine my surprise,when I got a call at home there were no cellphones then from Bachchan himself. I almost fell off the chair when he introduced himself and asked me if he should give the quote over the phone,or would I like to meet him. Now,who would miss an opportunity to meet the biggest star of our times. Promptly,I fixed up an appointment and landed at Jalsa then called Mansa office. Since then I have met quite a few stars but the meeting with the Big B is etched in my mind.

In my 14-year association with Screen,seven years were under Bhawana Somaaya. It wont be wrong to call her a dynamite in a small package. She had a way with phrases,all her own. Those of us who have worked with her have adopted them. That apart,I will always cherish the small function she organised for me when I was going on maternity leave.

Four years ago,Priyanka Sinha Jha took over Screen and since then the paper has gained a new momentum. She brought a fresh perspective and encouraged me to experiment with different kinds of stories. I have also started learning new aspects of writing and editing,which I have begun to enjoy.

Now,this issue onwards,the paper is going in for a makeover adapting a new size that will be convenient to carry and easy to read. Im certain that it will get a great response,and Screens trail-blazing journey will continue for another 60 years and more. l

chaya.unnikrishnanexpressindia.com