THE OTHER SIDE: Tribute

Showing posts with label Tribute. Show all posts

RIP Krantiveer - A Tribute to Nana Patekar

Renowned actor Nana Patekar passed away today (8th October 2026) at 5.20 AM due to cardiac arrest at his home in Goa. His sudden death is shocking not only for the film industry but also for his fans and cinema lover around the country.

Nana Patekar was working in both Hindi and Marathi cinema and is regarded as one of the greatest and most influential actors in Indian Cinema. He was recipient of the three National Film Awards {Best Supporting Actor: Parinda (1989), Best Actor: Krantiveer (1994),Best Supporting Actor: Agni Sakshi (1996)}, four Filmfare Awards, two Maharashtra State Film Awards and Filmfare Awards Marathi for his acting performances.He was bestowed with the Padma Shri award in 2013 for his contribution to cinema and arts industry.

He debuted in 1978 with Gaman and acted in many Marathi and Hindi films after that. With Parinda (1989) he established himself in the Hindi film industry and with films like Ankush, Prahar,Parinda, Krantiveer, etc his acting mettle become known to the industry. He also acted with other actors in many popular movies like Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Tiranga, Kohram, Taxi no. 9 2 11, Ghulam e Mustafa, etc. His comedy timing in Welcome is also worth mentioning. His other films include Tarkieb, Khamoshi: The Musical, Natsamrat, Ab Tak Chappan, Apahran, Rajneeti,Vanvaas, etc all are example of his remarkable work.

Nana Patekar’s impact off-screen is equally trans-formative. In 2015, alongside fellow actor Makarand Anaspure, Patekar co-founded the NAAM Foundation in response to severe drought conditions in Maharashtra.The foundation has provided direct financial relief to families of farmers who lost their lives to crop failure and debt. NAAM has actively driven rain-harvesting projects, desilting rivers, canal building, and constructing basic village infrastructure to create long-term ecological and financial self-sufficiency for rural communities.

Nana Patekar's personal life remains rooted in modesty and principles which even after many controversies (Me Too movement) remain unaffected and unchanged. He has consistently maintained a grounded lifestyle, choosing straightforward living and direct public engagement over celebrity glamour. His life stands as a testament to the idea that true influence comes not from fame, but from using one's voice and resources to lift others up. RIP Krantiveer.

Dr Manmohan Singh - The Man Who Defines ' Talk Less-Work More'

The 13th Prime Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh has passed away on 26th December 2024 at the age of 92 years in AIIMS, Delhi. I cast my first vote for him. He was a simple, well educated,soft spoken man who believes in talking with your deeds rather than your tongue which is the reason for the phrase from his last Press Conference as PM (Yes there used to be PC's by PM before 2014) i.e "History will be kinder to him". Today when he is no more in the world and lost the PM post more than 10 years ago many realizes what is the real meaning of this phrase.

Born in Gah in what is today Pakistan, Singh's family migrated to India during its partition in 1947. After obtaining his doctorate in economics from the University of Oxford, Singh worked for the United Nations during 1966–1969. He began his bureaucratic career as an advisor in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. During the 1970s and 1980s, Singh held several key posts in the Government of India, such as Chief Economic Advisor (1972–1976), governor of the Reserve Bank (1982–1985) and head of the Planning Commission (1985–1987).

In 1991, as India faced a severe economic crisis, the newly elected prime minister, P. V. Narasimha Rao, inducted the apolitical Singh into his cabinet as finance minister. Over the next few years, despite strong opposition, he carried out several structural reforms that liberalized India's economy. These measures proved successful in averting the crisis, and enhanced Singh's reputation globally as a leading reform-minded economist.

He was the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government and is selected as PM by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi in 2004. His first tenure as a PM gave MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act), National Rural Health Mission, RTI (Right to Information), Indo-US Nuclear Deal, co-founded BRICS, keep country unaffected during World Economic Crisis of 2009. India's economy grew rapidly during his term. His second term marked with controversy including 2G spectrum scam, Coal Scam, Nirbhaya Rape Case and than Anna Hazare nationwide agitation, which lead to his loss in 2014. He came clean out of these allegations and most of the allegations and Anna Hazare stir proved out to be political motivated by opposition BJP and its parent body RSS since many leaders from the movement joined BJP later and Arvind Kejriwal formed Aam Aadmi Party after the agitation which helped him becoming CM in Delhi.

Dr Manmohan Singh's reform of 1991 and his growth driven successful PM tenure proved him right that 'History will be kinder to him.' Since 2014 we haven't seen a Press Conference by Prime Minister, have seen falling status of centralized agencies like CBI, ED, ECI, etc, weakening of acts like RTI and NREGA, institutes like CAG and Lokpal are just for the namesake now and the media which was instrumental in bringing out 2G Scam, Coal-Gate and helped build public opinion during Nirbhaya and Anti-Corruption agitation is reduced to government mouth piece unable to work free and fair without government pressure.

He was the man whose work do the talking. In spite of mocking NREGA in the parliament PM Narendra Modi never dared to remove it owing to its power in uplifting rural lives. Many of his government's projects were renamed by NDA government and many others projects started by him completed after the end of his tenure. I will remember him as the first PM I voted to power and as the man who gave real 'Achche Din' to the country without self boosting himself.

Rest in peace Dr Manmohan Singh. May those who have not realized your worth realize it soon. Good by Sir.

Alvida Tragedy King - A Tribute To Dilip Kumar

"Na Wo Dil Na Sanam, Na Wo Deen Dharam
Ab Door Hun Saare Gunaahon Se"

Today (7th July 2021) with demise of Dilip Kumar an important chapter of Indian Cinema has come to an end. Born as Mohammad Yusuf Khan in 1922 he became famous with the name 'Dilip Kumar' and played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian Cinema. I was away from this blog for more than two years but his death forced me to come here and pay respect to this legend by writing a tribute for him.

My father was huge Dilip Kumar fan who introduced me to his movies. Dilip Kumar was source of inspiration for all actors who came after him. From Dharmendra to Amitabh Bachchan to Shah Rukh Khan all are inspired by his acting and movies. He was a natural actor. Although I wasn't born in his era but I can feel how much he has impacted the future generations with his work. 

He was referred as 'The Tragedy King' perhaps because of his true portrayal of pain on silver screen which used to make audience feel the pain of his character. He has not given the quantity but quality of cinema to the movie goers. Andaz(1949), Daag (1952), Azaad (1955), Mughal-e-Azam (1960), Gunga Jamuma (1961), Ram Aur Shyaam (1967) or his second inning films like Kranti (1981), Shakti (1982), Mashal (1984), Karma (1986), Saudagaar (1991) , etc all are gems for Indian Cinema. His method acting technique was appreciated by all and followed by coming generations. 

He married Saira Banu who is 22 younger than him. They don't have any children yet he remained one woman man throughout his life. His wife Saira Banu seen caring him like a child in his old age probably that's the reason he returned safely to home even after developing age related complications many times but unfortunately he passed away today morning. Many evergreen songs featured on him like, Ude Jab Jab Zulfein Teri, Do Sitaron Ka Zameen Par Hai Milan, Aaja Re Pardesi, Mere Pairon Mein Ghunghru, Aaj Ki Raat Mere Dil Ki Salami, Suhana Safar Aur Ye Mausam Haseen, Saathi Haath Bathana and many more which will keep him in our memories always. 

Many actors will come and go in the film industry but there are few who change the course of cinema and Dilip Sahab was one of them. Today's generation might not relate to him like the generation of 90's and before who have heard and seen about him. Alvida Dilip Sahab. 

RIP Kader Khan

I was late in writing this post but I am not comfortable with the fact I didn’t give tribute to this man whom I admired very much during nineties and the admiration increased as I knew about his writing skills as script writer and dialogue writer for many hit Hindi films. He died on 31st December 2018 giving sadness to his love one’s in the end of the year.

Kader Khan was born in Kabul, Afghanistan in 1937 but got his education in Mumbai where he also became a teacher. His acting was noted by yesteryear’s character actor Agha who recommended him to Dilip Kumar sahib who offered him two films which started his film career. His first film was Daag with Rajesh Khanna and then he did many films with him. I recognized from his films in the nineties where he was mostly doing comedy with Govinda. On watching more of his movies I realized how versatile actor he was with films like Jaisi Karni Waisi Bharni, Dariya Dil, Ghar Ho To Aisa, Hum Hain Kamal Ke , Baap Numbari Beta Dus Numbari, etc in which he was almost the lead actor of the film.

In films like Desh Premi, Suhaag, Parvarish, Amar Akbar Anthony, he played a villain. Khoon Bhari Maang, Kishen Kanahiyya, Coolie No. 1, Hero No. 1, Sajan Chale Sasural, Judai, Koyla, Himmatwala, Ghar Parivar, Bol Radha Bol, Raja Babu, Sooryavansham, Aankhen, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and the list is endless which determines how great actor he was. Some movies look incomplete if we imagine them without him. He also appeared on television shows but it didn’t work well. He was script and dialogue writer for many south films also. Sharabi, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar and many Amitabh Bachchan films were written by him.

He spend his last few years after falling ill outside India in Canada where his children are settled and sadly no one from the film industry with whom he worked never cared for him. Neither news channels nor gossip magazines give any news about his whereabouts in these days. Only we heard some rumors on social media time to time which used to worry his well wishers.

He will remain alive with his films in our memories forever. Whenever we will thing about family loved humor we will always think about him. RIP Sir Kader Khan.

Kya Khoya Kya Paya Jag Mein - Tribute to Atalji

Kya Khoya Kya Paya Jag Mein - Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Atal Bihari Vajpayee passed away today (16th August 2018) after prolonged illness in Delhi’s AIIMS hospital. He didn’t marry in his life so has no children but has an adopted daughter. He was not in the active politics since the time he was defeated in 2004 elections after serving as Prime Minister of India. Interestingly he served as the Prime Minister of India thrice, first for a term of 13 days in 1996, second for a period of eleven months from 1998 to 1999, and then for a full term from 1999 to 2004 by leading an alliance NDA (National Democratic Alliance) which is group of almost 36 parties. He was also a famous poet penned poems like Kya Khoya Kya Paya Jag Mein, Kadam Milakar Chalna Hoga, Khoon Kyun Safed Ho Gaya, etc.

He became Prime Minister at a time when my interest in politics was increasing. I always used to admire his oratory skills and enjoy his speeches laden with metaphors, poetry and unique examples. It was during his Prime Ministerial ship that I got chance to visit PM house with school group during his birthday celebration. There he was friendly with the crowd and tried to meet as many people as possible. An idea of River Linking Project came up during his tenure was one of my favorite but it didn’t take shape till now. He retired from active politics after defeat in 2004 general elections making L.K.Advani his successor. He was conferred with highest civilian award Bharat Ratna by Narendra Modi government.

He was credited for Pokhran 2 nuclear tests which was criticized by many nations in international circuit. He started Bus service from Delhi to Lahore and initiated dialogues with Pakistan after signing Lahore Summit agreement which was benchmark for peace process between Indian and Pakistan. He was disliked by his own party BJP and RSS for such actions but continue to face tough questions. His tenure also saw Kargil War and then 2001 attack on Parliament. Both act as setback for his peace initiatives. Agra talks were also failed with Pakistan which further derailed peace process. Indian Airlines flight IC 814 was hijacked when he was the PM for which he was forced to release terrorists under India’s control to release the passengers.

His political career marked with controversies like 2002 Gujarat riots for which he even criticized role of then Gujarat CM Narendra Modi. His slogan of India Shining flopped badly when they lost 2004 elections. His role in the mysterious death of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya was also questioned by the people at that time. He was among the founding members of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) after having connections with Jana Sangh and RSS.

His government started free market policy, national highway project and Sarva Siksha Abhiyaan. He was the man who first delivered speech in Hindi in United Nations when he was External Affair Minister in Morarji Desai government. However he was among the accused perpetrators of Babri Masjid demolition his term as a PM washed away many such allegations on him as he was liked by Muslims also. Today in his death nation has lost a great orator, a loved statesman and a person who is respected across all party lines. Rest in Peace Sir you will always remain in our memories.

RIP Kalaignar - M Karunanidhi

Kalaignar literally translates into ‘scholar of arts’ or just artist the title earned by M Karunanidhi from his followers not for being a Tamil film actor but due to active role played in Tamil Nadu politics. M Karunanidhi breathed his last on 7th August 2018 at the age of 94 in Chennai after prolonged age related illness. He married thrice in his life and has four sons and two daughters from different wives among them M.K Stalin second son of his second wife is seen as his political successor.

Karunanidhi entered Tamil Nadu politics at an early age from anti-Hindi agitation and become part of Dravidian movement by joining DMK. Dravidian movement is associated with atheism and anti-Brahmin ideology the reason he was disliked by fundamentalist Hindus. He was a screenwriter in Tamil movies through which he extensively shared ideas of atheism and anti-Brahminism to masses. His screenplays consists of themes of anti-Brahminis, widow remarriage, abolition of untouchability, self-respect marriages, abolition of zamindari and abolition of religious hypocrisy. He rose to the rank of President of DMK and served as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five terms and twenty years between 1969 and 2011. It is a almost a miracle for me that an atheist ruled those people who are strong believers of scriptures and religion. He must have served them well.

In nineties I remembered to heard only two names of Tamil politics on national level i.e J Jayalalitha and M Karunanidhi. This shows how they rose to importance in national politics also. M Karunanidhi’s death put an end to an era of stalwarts of Tamil politics; the man who made anti- Hindi and atheism as his tool remain true to these ideologies till his end. He remained in controversy on the issues of corruption by his family members, for his statement on Setusamundaram and existence of Lord Ram. He was accused of connections with LTTE an organisation responsible for death of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and also of charges of nepotism.

As an observer of politics I can claim that a big void has been created in Tamil Nadu politics which is impossible to be filled by any other leader. No one can earn the support of masses like he does in his lifetime. With him the country has lost the true champion of social causes. RIP M Karunanidhi.

RIP: Rita Bhaduri

RIP : Rita Bhaduri

Neither Rita Bhaduri is an household name nor I am a big fan of her but I still have some memories attached to her which I want to share after her death today in a Mumbai hospital. She was a character artist or a supporting actor in 70's , 80's and 90's and I am sure you also didn't know about any path breaking role of her which have impressed the audience. Yet she was an important personality of TV and film industry and her presence on screen used to feel by the audience.

She reminded me of a weird unique show of 90's which aired on Zee TV. The show's name was 'Grihalakshmi Ka Jinn' where she played the protagonist 'Girahalakshmi' whom God send a Jihn to solve her day to day problems, the Jihn was played by 'Raj Zutshi'. It was a comedy serial and had a unique story line which if I think today can be compared to 'Nobita and Doraemon' relation. In this show too Raj Zutshi (Jihn) was like her brother. All other her roles were mostly of mother, grandmother, nani, bua , etc and I only had glimpses of her roles in my mind as that in Anil Kapoor's 'Ghar Ho To Aisa', Govinda's 'Hero No.1', Shah Rukh Khan's 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa' Priety Zinta's 'Kya Kehna' etc.

In television industry she was mostly associated with women oriented 'Saas-Bahu' kind of serials where she played mother,dadi, nani or other such kind of roles which I don't see much and I don't have memories of them but yes I know she was active recently also. Anyways she was a face one recognizes and her loss will be felt among people who are regular in watching her serials. She died today(17th July 2018) of kidney ailments in Mumbai. May her soul Rest In Peace.

Recently Kavi Kumar Azad who used to play an important character Dr Hansraj Hathi in famous comedy serial of SAB TV 'Taarak Mehta ka Ultaa Chashma' has passed away due to heart attack. His jovial nature was evident from his appearance on screen. He has the smiling,tension free appearance on show which brings smile to our faces. I know he will soon be replaced by some other actor on the show but his absence will be missed immensely.

Hawahawai - RIP Sridevi

I am in a deep shock after hearing Sridevi’s untimely death news. It’s a sad moment, the one you wish to believe is not true and that’s what I did when first heard the news of her death. I checked with the news portals to confirm the news and then I realize we have lost a legend. I usually write tribute for celebrities who passed away but I am finding it difficult to write about the one who was among my childhood favorites as I am disheartened with the loss. We who spend our childhood in 90’s know about the craze for her in those days and how much we loved her. She is among the most popular female actor of that era the one who is regarded as first female superstar of Hindi film industry.

She was just 54 when she died of accidental drowning (26.2.18) in Dubai where she was present for a marriage function. She started working at the age of 13 from south film industry and made her Bollywood debut in 1979 with Solva Sawan but it was Jitender starer Himmatwala which made her a Bollywood sensation. It also established her as a ‘Dance Queen’ with song ‘Nainon Mein Sapna’. Later songs like ‘Mein Teri Dushman’, ‘Mere Hathon Mein Nau-Nau Chudiyan Hain’, ‘Kaate Nahin Katte Ye Din Ye Raat,’ ‘Hawa-Hawai’,’Kisi Ke Haath Na Aayegi Ye Ladki’,'Mhare Hibde Be Reh Gayee Re' and many others become favorite among dance loving people.

She proved her acting skills in films like Sadma where she played a child-woman suffering from amnesia, Lamhe, Chandni, Chaalbaaz which has her double role, Mr India in which her ‘Charlie Chaplin’ act is still the best comic act by a female actor. Judai, Laadla,Tohfa,Justice Chaudhary and recent releases English Vinglish and Mom are all her memorable performances. She even acted in a serial on Television. Nowadays she was busy in preparation of her daughter’s launch in film industry.

She acted with every famous superstar actor of her era like Anil Kapoor whose brother Boney Kapoor a film producer she married, Jitender, Dharmender, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan and also a film with Shah Rukh Khan. She was a great actor and a loving human being who many time with her roles inspired us. She made us laugh, cry, emotional and attached to her roles. I will never forget her neither the film industry going to forget her valuable contribution to it. Rest In Peace Sridevi.

Sonia Gandhi - A Woman of Substance

The lady who was unknown to the masses till 1997-1998 become so popular among the people that she led her party to two consecutive historic win in the country many people believed not belonged to her. I am talking about Sonia Gandhi the outgoing president of Indian National Congress. She has left her post for elevation of her son Rahul Gandhi as the Congress party president.

Her timing to enter politics collides with the time I started following politics. It was the time Indian politics was in turmoil as the country has faced three general elections in a period of four years. Her own party which she refused to join after the death of her husband in 1991 was also at breaking point with many fractions emerging from it as the opposition for then party president Sitaram Kesri grew stronger. She joined the party after pressure from senior Congress leaders and for some other reasons best known to her. Her joining and elevation as party president resulted in Sharad Pawar, P.A.Sangma and Tareeq Anwar leaving the party to form a new one on the issue of her foreign origin. This issue remained burning topic during her first election and after many more years after that. He enjoys backlashes on her foreign origin from many even today when he completely left her country in 1983 and adorned the Indian culture from her heart.

I have seen the time of her elevation from leader of opposition against Atal Bihari Vajpayee government to the position of verge of electing Prime Minister of the country. She humbly refused to be PM of the country and gave Manmohan Singh the chance to become so who did it twice in 2004 & 2009. To step down from the post of becoming PM is her masterstroke to silence all her critics who used to say that she joined the party for that purpose. It also subside the issue of her foreign origin as the opposition shouted against the PM of a person of foreign origin. She by sacrificing the PM post silenced them for always.

She remained the powerful women of the country in all the years she was active. Despite many allegations of corruption and slur of Bofors and National Herald Case on her career she remained strong. She was behind the ideas of promoting MNREGA, Food Security Act, Land Acquisition Bill, NSA, Foerst Act, Direct Benefit Transfer, AADHAR and many other schemes and programs of Manmohan Singh era. She feels now that it’s time for her to retire but her party wants her to remain their guardian for as long as she can. She remain active or not but India and Indian politics can never forget her contribution to the country in these 19 years she was active in politics. She was the part of change India experienced in these years. Love her, hate her but you can't ignore her.

Hamare Paas Shashi Kapoor Nahin Hai

The iconic star of 60’s & 70’s Mr. Shashi Kapoor is no more with us. After many rumors of his death in the last one year he finally bid adieu to the world. In my growing years he was not a star to be known by our generation but early introduction to cable TV network took me to his cinema. He was among the handsome male actors of his time who enraptured the cinema goers of his time with versatility of his characters in the movies like Jab Jab Phool Khile, Dhram Putra, Satyam Shivam Sundaram, Deewar, Suhaag, etc.

Who can forget calm and composed Ravi in front of angry Vijay answering all questions with just a phrase ‘Mere Paas Maa Hai’. I think most of us will remember him always by this scene. It is difficult to remember his larger than life roles in his films of heroism but we can’t forget him in movies like Satyam Shivam Sundaram, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Sharmeeli, Namak Halal, Suhaag, Shaan, Kabhi Kabhi, Aa Gale Lag Ja, Chor Machaye Shor, Kala Patthar, etc. He was also admired for keeping alive the Prithvi Theater by continuously working in it. Even in his last years he was keen to see plays acted in it.

He even directed many films which were critically acclaimed like Utsav, 46 Chowrangee Lane, etc. These films didn’t much succeeded in box office but to him they give creative satisfaction. He also acted in English films which was a rarity in the time he was active. He started as a child artist in his brother Raj Kapoor’s Awara and enjoyed working throughout his career. He was comfortable doing second lead or supporting actor’s role and did commendable jobs in many films with Amitabh Bachchan, Deewar, Suhaag, Namak Halal, Shaan to name a few.

His friends and co-stars remembered him as simple, polite and big-hearted gentleman and whatever I have read and seen about him I too believe he was a no tantrum star even when he worked with his juniors. In 2015 he also received the Dadasahab Phalke award which is the highest honor given to a film actor in India. You will always remain in my memory as a jovial star RIP Shashi Kapoor Ji.

RIP Kundan Shah

Not all become like Yash Chopra, Prakash Mehra, Aziz Mirza, Shyam Benegal, etc who are famous and adored by today’s generation but there are also people like Kundan Shah who with one or two hit films has left an impression on the film industry as well as on movie goers. Kundan Shah is not known to the people of today’s generation probably because he didn’t have much public appearances in recent years neither he directed mega budget movies of 80’s and 90’s which telecast on movie channels regularly.

But you must watch the film he directed ‘Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro’ (1983). This slapstick comedy will show you his brilliance of film making. Acted by respected actors Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, Satish Shah, Pankaj Kapoor among others shows the corruption in politics, bureaucracy and the media. The film is evident for present time also. I can’t forget the ultimate comedy scene of a Hindi film i.e The Mahabharta scene in the movie. It is as they say nowadays ROFL (Rolling on Floor Laughing) moment. Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa is also worth mention among the film he directed. This film starring Shah Rukh Khan in one of the best character of his career shows the Hero the protagonist as a loser which is a rarity in Bollywood. Another film Kya Kehna staring Priety Zinta which talks about single parenthood is also a milestone in his career also among the defining role in Preity Zinta’s film career.

Later he also directed few more movies with Bobby Deol, Shekhar Suman, Priety Zinta, Rekha, but they didn’t work like his earlier movies and I think he didn’t directed any movie after that. He is also famous for directing Nukkad a famous Doordarshan serial along with Waghle Ki Duniya, both the serial were critically acclaimed as well as successful commercially. Everyone in this film industry gets what he/she deserves but we should respect each contribution which has decorated film industry with a different flavor.

I am also not remained his greatest of fans but his death as showed me his importance in the film industry with films like Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa and Kya Kehna which also compel me to write this tribute to him. I wish him a magnificent after life. Rest In Peace Sir.

Mahabharta scene from Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro

RIP Tom Alter

I am sure those who grew up in nineties are not unfamiliar with his name. Like many I also has his first image in my mind is of 'British Raj Ka Writer' in Doordarshan serial 'Zabaan Sambhaal Ke' where he played an Englishman writer who is learning Hindi. He was impressive in that role along with the other's worked in it. I later saw him in films like Charas, Karma, Kranti and films like that where he has played bad characters of Firangi (foreign) officer. He played these negative characters impressively and when you compare them with his comic role in Zabaan Sambhalke you will know his acting proves.

I also remembered him as Mahaguru in popular superhero serial Shaktimaan but what inspired me about him later on in my life was his command on Hindi and Urdu. He recite shayaris and ghazals beautifully. I have seen performing him many time on television. I also knew he was a great theater actor but never got any chance to see him live on stage. His ghazal recitations are also available in you-tube where you can also see and admire his diction.

He was born in Mussoorie as Thomas Beach Alter and spend his life in many cities before started working in films after getting education in FTII, Pune. He also played Ghalib in his theater role. He worked as cricket coach in his teaching career and works as sports interviewer and commentator also. He was first to interview young Sachin Tendulkar during start of his career. Sachin was only 15 then. His presence in films,TV and theater will be missed by all his fans. He passes away on 29th September after fighting a long battle with Skin Cancer at the age of 67.

Tom Alter has left a legacy that will always be remembered with respect and honor. He is no more but his personality stays immortal. RIP Tom Alter.

Here is a video of Tom Alter reciting ghazal

An Ode To Teachers

An Ode To Teachers.

Teachers play an important role in shaping our life. If you are among privileged who took formal education or even when you are among the non-educated there are people in your life who teach you something or the other in course of journey of life. Apart from life I have learnt many things from many teachers I encountered in life whether it’s about subject like Science, History, Literature, Geography or things helpful in daily life which make us more experience.

Naming any one teacher will devalue the contribution of others. So I restrict myself from naming anybody and before going further with the topic I like to remember my English teacher whose death news I have heard recently. He taught me English from Seventh to Tenth class. He depends on his life experiences while teaching than on bookish knowledge. We used to enjoy his classes. I was a bright student and teacher’s favorite but on two occasions in my school life I got slapped. Once in first class when as a monitor I slapped somebody so hard that his head struck the wall and started bleeding. Principle madam then slapped me for wrongful use of power. Another instance was of sixth class. Here our group of four friends was teasing somebody from many days every time. One day he complained to the Science teacher who was our favorite. She slapped others and me in disappointment because we broke her trust. After these incidents I avoid slapping people or teasing in a way that hurts them.

Something we also learn by ourselves from life’s experiences. Those moments make us stronger by inculcating things required by us to face that problem. I was upset/broken after my father’s death and when I read my poems around that period they are all sad, related to death and of motivations to come out of that pain of loss. This situation taught me many things. Learning is a lifelong process and you must not stop it to be a better human being. You may also learn things by observing behavior of total strangers, or even more TV shows and movies. So keep on learning throughout your life. Again I would like to thank my teachers to be part of my life and teaching us to face the world. Also remember Dr S. Radhakrishnan whose birth anniversary in the form of Teacher’s Day give us chance to remember our teachers. He was a great educationist and teacher. HAPPY TEACHER’S DAY

RIP Favorite Mother of Bollywood : Reema Lagoo

Reema Lagoo along with Farida Jalaal is among the most favorite mother of Bollywood in 90's and early 2000's. Reema Lagoo breathed her last today on 18th May 2017 after a cardiac arrest. She was only 59 and free from any major illness at the time of her death which makes this news more shocking to her fans. She was equally famous in films,television and Marathi theater. I have heard that she remained associated with Marathi film industry, theater also during her working days and was an appreciated name in that industry.

I remembered her from the days of Tu Tu Main Main where she played Mother-in-law (saas) of Supriya Pilgaonkar and Shrimaan Shrimati where she was a middle class housewife. In both of these comic roles she was superb in her timing and dialogue delivery. As a character actor in Bollywood movies she played mother to almost all superstars of today and has worked with many top directors,actors and productions. Her role as Salman Khan's mother in Maine Pyaar Liya, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Judwaa as Madhuri Dikshit's mother in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Juhi Chawala's mother in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Shah Rukh Khan's mother in Kal Ho Na Ho, Urmila Matondkar's mother in Rangeela, Saif Ali Khan & Akshay Kumar's mother in Yeh Dillagi , Sanjay Dutt's mother in Vaastav, etc are much appreciated role of her. My favorite among these is her character of Sanjay Dutt's mother in Vaastav where she killed her own son to get him rid of his sins.

People come and go in this film industry as a natural law but few left their impressions even without being a lead actor and she was that kind of personality in Hindi movies. With charm on her face and her simplicity #ReemaLagoo used to capture the audience attention even being a character actor. People can relate her with the mothers of that time. She has created a void in both television and film industry which will always remind us of her absence but as they say 'Show Must Go On.' Good bye for now. Rest In Peace Reema Lagoo.

Amar is Amar in Our Memories : RIP Vinod Khanna

Vinod Khanna passed away today (27th April 2017) in Mumbai at the age of 70. If you remember few months back you didn’t even think about that news because he looked fittest among the actors of his era but a picture of his last month in hospital clothes shocked everybody because he was looking weak and pale and now another shocking news came today that he died due to bladder cancer.

The name Vinod Khanna reminds a father figure for today’s generation who has seen working him as father of Shahrukh Khan (Dilwale 2016 also his last film) and Salman Khan (Wanted 2009). He has also worked in Players,Ramaiya Vastavaiya also in the recent past. Mere Apne, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Amar Akbar Anthony, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Qurbani, Sachcha Jhutha, Kudrat, Dayaman, Nishchay, The Burning Train, Parvarish, were among his popular movies. If you can see these films and list of his other films you will notice that he was not insecure of his image throughout his career. Film choices are not limited to lead actor roles but to multi actor films also even though he was a hit, popular and among the handsome Bollywood star ever.

I can’t recall his appearances on News & TV shows for interviews and promotions. Even as three time Gurdaspur (Punjab) MP he avoided media spotlight and remained occupied with his work only. During Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government he even elevated to the post of MoS External Affairs which was huge portfolio for a MP with Bollywood background. What I have read and seen about him he appeared to be a humble, friendly and supporting star. At the peak of his career in 1982 he left film industry to join Osho Rajnish’s Ashram and spend 5 years of his life working there before returning to the film industry again.

Today we know him as father of Akshay and Rahul Khanna who have successful film careers but not even close to the success of their father. I have learnt today after reading about him that he was married twice and has two more children a girl and a boy. The man who started as a villain was a real hero all his life. He is no more between us but his characters will remain immortal in our memories. The moment can be best described from lines of a song from his film Muqaddar Ka Siqandar (King of Destiny).

Zindagi To Bewafa Hai Ek Din Thukrayegi,

Maut Mehbooba Hai Apne Saath Lekar Jayegi,

Mar Ke Jeene Ki Ada Jo Duniya Ko Sikhlayega,

Wo Muqaddar Ka Sikandar Janneman Kehlayega.

#RIP #VinodKhanna.

Boom Boom Afridi

Shahid Afridi the evergreen cricketer of Pakistan also retired from the international Cricket. The last cricketer of the 90's generation when I used to watch cricket (now I only watch few Indian matches and IPL) and I think he was the man who changed the dimensions of the cricket. Sanath Jayasuriya was the first man who started utilizing the 15 over Power-play and he also become the perfect exploiter of these overs. However I have not watched him playing many long innings except the one when he scored 37 balls century fastest at that time on his first match. Otherwise he has scored few runs but mostly with boundaries.

He was famous in India too and garnered appreciation for his play and looks when Pakistan team toured India. He was more of a bowler than a batsman. His batting innings were usually short and he got out quickly after scoring few quick runs but as a right arm leg spinner he appeared as a match winner for his team in many occasions. He started pinch hitting which was followed by many cricketers after him. The chants of Boom Boom Afridi were always heard when he was on the pitch not only from his country's supporters but also from the opponent country fans. He always made the match entertaining through ball or with bat.

Now when he retired from the international Cricket at the age of 36 he still remembered for the youngest cricket debut (16 years). He holds many world records and records for his country like :

Highest T20I wicket taker (97)
86.97 among batsmen with more than 25 Test caps he has the best strike rate.
9 Five wicket haul in ODI's which makes him thirs highest with Brett Lee.
Only all-rounder after Jacques Kallis with 10,000 runs and 500 wickets.
Most sixes in international cricket across all formats (476)

With him heroes of the 90's cricket fans have all retired. I will remember him as the cricketer on the field who always brings energy to the game. I wish him good luck in his future endeavors.

RIP Om Puri

Om Puri is one actor who has worked both in Indian and International cinema garnering accolades in British and American cinema along with his successful run in Indian Cinema. He was a fellow of National School of Drama with Naseerudin Shah and later joined Film & Television Institute of India (FTII) , Pune also with Naseerudin Shah and he started his career like him in the Art Wave Cinema of the 80's but easily adapted himself to the commercial cinema later on in his career. I think a good actor is one who needs good films whatever be their medium and whatever be their audience. He was such an actor who won hearts of every kind of audience. Today on 6th January 2017 he died in his home of cardiac arrest.

In his last days he almost remained in controversies for sharing his views in the various topic in the mainstream media. Most recently he was criticized for his comments on Indian Army for which he later apologized. Questions were also raised for his comments during Anti-National debates. His second wife's allegation of domestic violence on him also garnered the headlines. Leaving apart the controversies; he was known for sharing his comments openly on various national and international issues. He has won various awards in international and national platform including BAFTA, National Awards and Filmfare Awards. You can read more about his personal and professional life Here.

He has done great roles in various categories and has equally justified his each role. His role of a villain in Narsimha, Honest Inspector/Army-man in movies like Ghayal, Gupt, China Gate, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha,etc. Or his comic roles in the movies Hera Pheri, Chor Machaye Shor, Mere Baap Pehle Aap, Dulhan Hum Le Jaenge, Chachi 420, Chup Chup Ke ,etc are all examples of his versatility and acting prowess. Except these commercial successes he has won awards in art cinema for his roles in films like Jaane Bhi Do Yaro, Aakrosh, Arohan, Ardh Satya, etc.

We will remember him as a great actor who remained an important part of every film he has acted in and for popularizing Indian cinema internationally by acting in films there. I wants to mention Late Mehmood's one comment for him in his interview I watched years ago in which he referred him as the great actor having so many holes in his face to filled with about half kg mince meat as he forgot his name at that time. Rest in peace Mr Om Puri your vocal attitude on issues will be missed by this generation.

The Lady From The South

Jayalalithaa Jayaraman, J Jayalalithaa or Amma for her fans and followers died after 75 days illness in Apollo Hospital of Chennai. She was the stalwart woman politician of the southern India who elected as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu five times in the span of around 30 years. As a leader of AIADMK the party which she got from the death of her political mentor MGR in 1989 she took the party to the apex of being the kingmaker in the central government. As an observer of Indian politics from years I have not seen the threads of tension on her forehead even in the difficult of times. One can always remember her always smiling ways with soothing expressions.

Her rise to the top spot of the party and to the post of Chief Minister is marked with controversies of being linked romantically to M.G.Ramachandran (MGR) or to her authoritarian behavior in disrespecting members of party and the opposition but no one can deny her hard word and reach to every single person of her state. Her schemes of mass appeal like that of Amma Canteen which serves food starting at Rs 1 along with other programs has made her darling of the masses. This is the reason for people thronging to Apollo hospital, Chennai from all parts of the state and were praying for her speedy recovery since 75 days. Many have lost their balances after hearing the news of her death. I fear people committing suicide or damaging themselves in other ways in 'Hero Worship' after her death as is the trend in southern India at the time of death of big leaders and movie stars. I hope people will act intelligently this time.

Jayalalithaa has also played an important role in national politics from many years. She was among the leader of the parties which stopped Modi wave in 2014 general elections when her party won 37 out of 39 seats in Tamil Nadu. She was the woman of courage and determination. Even after her removal as the Chief Minister for being convicted in disproportionate assets case she remained strong and came out powerful after her acquittal from Karnataka High Court to regain her position.

In this time of grief I can only pray for her and request her followers to maintain calm in the state of Tamil Nadu. May Her Soul Rest In Peace.

Muhammad Ali - The Only Boxer I Know

The title statement is not an exaggeration but a fact. I have never watched a boxing match even on television and neither I am interested in this sports but I know who Muhammad Ali was. I know what sport he played and that he was the boxing champion who was almost undefeatable during his playing years. I know him, I recognize him and I respect him for the life he lived for the rights of American Blacks and a true champion of the sport he played.

My knowledge about him is what I have read in Wikipedia and other such sites on internet but his certain quotes, reading stories about his struggles from other greats made me aware of him. He was such a sportsman that this sport Heavyweight Boxing became synonymous with his name. If you asked someone about boxing he would definitely mention his name in this conversation. He died on 3rd June 2016 leaving a world with his life full of inspiration for generations to come coincidentally this day is also the death anniversary of my father. I have read about his opposition of Vietnam War. He was the first celebrity to openly criticize that war and as an army man refused to go there to fight. Government cancelled his boxing licence after this incident and he served term in jail for the same. Later on after he won the court battle he fought for nearly four years he came back to the boxing world. He was also the most popular person who converted to Islam.

He became inspiration for many to oppose that war which was criticized even by the world leaders. The reason he gave to refuse to fight in the war made him champions for the rights of blacks,poor and oppressed:

"My conscience won't let me go shoot my brother, or some darker people, or some poor hungry people in the mud for big powerful America. And shoot them for what? They never called me nigger, they never lynched me, they didn't put no dogs on me, they didn't rob me of my nationality, rape or kill my mother and father.... How can I shoot them poor people? Just take me to jail."

He was running a charitable organization before his death which is still working to make this world better for underprivileged people. World always need such greats and the void created by their absence always remain difficult to fill. Rest in peace Muhammad Ali.

Tera Saaya Saath Hoga

Yesteryear beautiful actress Sadhna passed away today on 25th December 2015. I have watched almost all her films on either television or on Youtube. She was among the top heroines of 60's who after retirement remained away from the media spotlight because she wanted to be remembered as young and beautiful. We can hardly recollect her looks in our memories any after 70's. During the period after 70’s when other heroines of 60’s started taking character roles of sister-in-laws (bhabhi) or mothers she took a backseat and spend her life in hiding.

I was aware of her name in my childhood even before recognizing her by face due to discussions and references to 'Sadhna Cut' a hairstyle in which hair strands fall over forehead almost covering it. This style of female hairs became synonymous to her name and will remain so as always as a tribute to her. I read somewhere that a director suggested this style of a Hollywood actress of that time to her but I am sure most of us in India hardly knew who this Hollywood actress was.For her movies Mera Saya, Anita and Woh Kaun Thi she got the title of mystery girl as all these movies were suspense thriller. Sadhna was also blessed to have pictured in some of the melodies and evergreen songs of Indian cinema along with acting in some of the greatest hits of that time.

'Mera Saya',' Lag Ja Gale', Tera Mera Pyaar Amar', ' Jhumka Gira Re,' 'Mujhe Teri Mohabbat Ka Sahara', 'Abhi Na Jao Chodkar Ke Dil Abhi' these and many more songs comes alive in front of my eyes when I read or heard her name. Mera Saya, Hum Dono, Woh Kaun Thi, Arzoo, Mere Mehboob, Asli-Naqli are some of her memorable films. She was a beautiful, graceful and a great actor who graced the Indian screen in 60's. Everyone who is a die-hard fan of classic Indian cinema like me knows that a crucial part of Indian cinema has departed today from this world. But I am sure her beautiful Saya with compelling eyes will remain with us through her songs, her movies and an enchanting smile.