Posted on: July 5, 2008 - 11:47 pm
Vet Hospital, Parel, MUmbai July 5, 2008 11:33 pm
A comment from SHARANYA caught my attention as I read through the responses.
He questions why the film ‘Guru’ never got the accolades it deserves and why it never got any recognition in the several Awards that went by.
Very simple. The people who vote for its recognition did not extend their vote to the film. End of chapter.
The biggest recognition for any creative artist is his own personal assessment of his work. I believe all artists have the capability to judge themselves. If they do not or cannot then they do not possess the right to be artists. We should know within us whether we were good or bad. If we possess the ability to judge others, surely the parameters of judging oneself would be no different.
Institutions that acknowledge creativity do so with many factors in mind. That the motive is one of genuine desire to honor talent is beyond reasonable doubt. But events such as this do have to perforce go beyond. When where and how are questions that occupy most award giving entities in the early months of every year.
When ? When it does not clash with another institution. Early part of the year is preferred territory. The year has just got over and an assessment of the entire years’ performance needs to be looked at.
Let’s do ours first. Will get the first off the block advantage, set the surprise winner list out into the stratosphere so others look imitations and also rans. Star attendance will give us the benefit of the first runs as also the Tv broadcasts. Decision taken, plans set and executed.
Where ? Locations have been changing. From the only Award Ceremony of Filmfare at Shamukhananda Hall to several at all the possible exotic locations. Large open fields to accommodate the ever increasing numbers in attendance to lavish Hotel complexes to foreign countries. All have been explored.
How ? Since most Award functions are held by media conglomerates the medium is used to bring in a voting pattern for extreme transparency. Forms for voting are printed in the magazines or the papers of the medium and voters asked to fill in and submit choices. Sales of magazine and paper go up due to large numbers voting, people feel a sense of involvement in their choice, marketing department raises advertisement rates just minimally, medium makes a bit of money and additionally the publicity it generates. Everyone is happy. A few nefarious activities are also discovered. Fans, or who knows, stars themselves, wanting victory, buy out forms and fill in favorite choice to gain the numbers required for nomination. More often than not, smart medium discovers this practice and disqualifies entries. It is their prerogative after all. Once that stage is over select a jury of recognized, sincere, film knowledged aficionados, some from Industry non partial, some from the public domain to keep the politics correct and top it by a Chairman. Chairman to be medium head ! Most important. Medium must know who it is going to give or not !
Ok. Start the preparations. Make the event big, large, colorful, extravagant, expensive. Expensive essential, got to market it to TV to buy, to cover costs. Get a sponsor. A consumer product ready to spend for its brand. If they say 10, push for 15. We’ll get owner to come on stage and give important Award. What, the main category ? No, no silly. That makes bad television. Critics or Lifetime Achievement. Sounds prestigious and dignified. Brand owners love prestige and dignity. Right then, performers ! Get the most popular hit lists. Is there a terrorist threat ? Idiot ! The song hit lists, the most popular ones and the stars connected. We need them in. Got it ! Er.. one issue. We trashed their film in our reviews, would they come ? Negotiate. Talk to them. Be polite and gentle and generous. Take off that ‘ interview cap’ and put on ‘cap humble’. Any color will do lady ! NO !! No ! Not yellow !!
Sir ! They say they’ll come if they are winning. Ok, get them to perform, we’ll pay them. Get a reasonable price. Financials are going crazy. Done sir. Who’s paying for their costume and choreographer. No sir they want their own designer and dancers. No sir they definitely do not want the other guy. And just one last. What is the placement in the running order of the show. It would be a bit difficult. They wish to come right in the end. Preferably after the other one, if not the last. Its a matter of reckoning, seniority, ratings, splashes of ego. Just commit something, once they are here we will deal with it. Show in progress, cannot change now sort of thing. Got it ? Now move I need to go and plug different channels for a good price !!
Medium meets talent. Medium an enemy of vulnerability now its victim. Uncomfortable. Against nature. Against all principles and guidelines of medium. Talent on relatively higher horse. Some gallop away, some trot and canter in, others turn around and run the other way.
Passes ! If I cannot have 50, scratch me out. But sir the venue can only accommodate…. I do not care ! Put in extra chairs. They are important people. From Delhi, baby ! Ok, ok, the Income Tax and Customs we can put them in the general enclosure. Are you mad !! They run the country. Right now they may run my bank balance dry. I must have them up right in front. They want that !
Showtime ! Rehearsals day and night. Talent not happy with time given to his group to rehearse. Set and sound wanting all the time to get fixes. Vans, make up, dancers, event organizers, parking lots, police, chaperons, seating plans, fireworks, presenters, speeches on monitor, security, sleepless nights, uncompromising relentless phone ins, demands, issues, problems, pressures…. LIFE IS ON HOLD !!
MR SHARANYA ! Do you really think they would even allow this to enter their busy, crowded, hammered into distortion minds, to wonder if ‘Guru’ got it or not ?
What is important to wonder therefore, is whether you thought it was worthy or not. If you did. Fine. If not. Even better. We need to work harder next time. And not necessarily at our craft !
I believe, one of the finest performances of Indian Cinema was given by the greatest thespian of all time, Mr Dilip Kumar in the film ‘Gunga Jamuna’. He was never given an Award for it.
I tell Abhishek. If Dilip Saheb didn’t get it, who the hell are we ? Or in more colloqial Hindi - ” hum kis khet ki mooli hai !
Institutions that honor creativity do so with many factors in mind.
“It is not always the merit of the product that counts ‘ said Aamir, in a recent channel interview, “most of the time its the personal merit of those involved that matters”.
Today it is a film which has personal involvement - my son as actor and my own liking of the product. But it will never take anything away from those that did get the accolades and reward. They were more deserving in the eyes of those that consider and they won. Matter finis !!
The wonderfully crafted symbols of achievement - the medals, the statuettes, ornate artifacts, certificates will adorn your home and office and earn appreciation of visitors and friends. But that is all. I would rather my work adorn the minds of those that were subjected to my creativity. I would and I would endeavor that Abhishek would too, carry this appreciation in his heart.
Utpal Dutt, the great theater and film artist from Bengal, would, after winning an Award, cynically joke - “Ah ! Another door knob for my house !!
Brando, refused to attend an Academy Award ceremony which was honoring him and many other greats have rejected recognition.
I may not possess the cynicism of Utpal Da, or the strength of conviction of Brando. I will only say what my father wrote -
“Swagat sab ke liye yahan par ; Nahin kissi ke liye prateeksha !
There is welcome for everyone here ; but I am not waiting for anyone !
Love and more.. as always
Amitabh Bachchan
July 6th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Dear Amitji:
I think at the end of the day one has to do his work and not worry about the end result. It is important to introspect on ones own actions, work and deeds and realise that if it yields satisfactions then he need not justify anyone else. One should keep on working and eventually his work will speak for himself and show the world its results.In the case of Abhishek, often there is comparisons with you in acting - there is a lot of pressure on an actor who has set his foot in a new industry and be compared to veterans such as yourself. However, if the young actor believe in himself and continues doing good roles, eventually the work will not go without recognitions and grand success. I am sure Abhishek will rule the industry - his time will come!
Thanks and regards,
Anand
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Dearest Amit Uncle,
permit me at the onset to aplogise sir if I have offended you by calling Amit uncle.Uncle though i do not know u personally nor i have met u but from the bottom of my heart I luv u a lot and admire your works.I have always felt that inspite being the superstar of indian cinema ,you are so very humble.let me introduce myself,I am an electronic engineer and working as a Motorman in the railways,I have two kids sayesh and sharon.
Uncle I feel you and your family are victimised because
1)For some persons the best thing to remain in news is to criticise shri amitabh bachan.no worry all newspapers will cover it,front page.
2)some people are plain jealous.
3)every people in the bachan household is a top professional in his or her field of activity.so people envy.
Uncle I have always felt that you have given a very dignified response whenever people accuse you.The people of India luv u and ur family a lot.so people know why politicians say things about u.
Uncle i dont want to waste your time,I am very very happy today that a person like me can talk to the only Superstar we have.Thanks uncle for the blog u have started.
with lots of luv….
reji
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Dear Amitji
What to write now. I come here everyday to read what you have written. And everyday without fail, there is something for me learn and adopt. Sometimes it feels its written just for me.. for the situation that I am currently in. Everyday is a new learning and a new beginning.
Thank you so very much.
Take care
Anand
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
dear SIR BACHCHAN,
yes it’s true but it hearts somewhere on why GURU was not given it recognization in any awards function apart from mucic & backaround.
abhi has should get critics award at leat if not popural catagory.
my suggestion for you SIR, please instruct IIFA guys to introduce CRITIS award from next time for best actor, acctress, director & film .
what do you think? hope to see you reply on this.
but saying all this ……………
i think this is life, S………….s happen. but u have to carry on.
i am also not in good mood now a days cause of my office. they didn’t give me promotion mut i am trying to be normal by thinking
MAN KA HO TO ACHHA , MAN KA NA HO TA BAHUT ACHHA , your father line.
thank you once again for giving me strainth day by day. please psot some more peom of your father for us.
thank you
hope to see your reply sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooon
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Dear Amitabh,
I am an ardent fan of yours,I have seen each movie of yours and look forward to see many more.I regularly browse through your blog,and read every thing about you whether it is in print or or web.
I look forward in hearing from you on my mail “anshul.masih@gmail.com”.
Regards,
Anshul.
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Dear AmitJi,
My son Pranav who is 8 years young(i dont like calling young children old) has recited Babu Ji’s “Agneepath†, with GREAT passion which i want to share with you to get your comments. Pls. advise how i can upload his video on your blog or by some other means.
By the way we also hail from Allahabad and my parents and uncles have known babuji as well.
Looking forward hearing from you soon . .
Cheers and Take Care,
Ratan
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Pranam,
Yours review of Jaane Tu.. was to the point.Its very refreshing and young film.Imran khan has a great future,effortless natural acting.Great talent-not same can be said about other khans’ .
Marlon Brando did went on stage to recieve the award for ‘On The Waterfront’,but yes he didn’t believe in the abilities of jury deciding the honour.
Jack Nicholson said after recieving the award for ‘cuckoo’s nest’ -” i always believed that there are more jerks in academy than anywhere else ” and he meant it.
Its a well established fact that networking skills matters most in any industry ,genuine talent and deserving winners sometimes gets robbed of the title they rightfully should have owned.
But I must admit- my heart bleeds for ‘ Taare Zameen Par’ more.It deserves an oscar nomination for best foreign film.
Regards,
Dew
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
respected sir
a very good afternoon 2 u
love
nandana
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July 6th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Hi Amitji,
Very well said. Its right of what you say about awards. But somewhere I feel there is a catch… there is a confusion. Wouldn’t awards be important for celebrities or established artists like getting a break would be important for a non-accomplished artist like me? There are stages in this career and every acknowledgement has some importance.
If a struggler like me would give up saying, I dont need some music label or producer to recognise my talent, my family, friends and myself are convinced of my talent and we are confident that I am very creative and my songs are good. How does it count? What does it show? Is it simply ignorance or giving up. Ok, lets say at a certain point in life I release my album and sales well. Beyond the figure of those sales, as an artist, if not an award, what should I look out for as a mark of achievement?
I am not opposing your views neither am I saying that mine are right. You are at the level of success and accomplishment where people like me might not even be able to imagine things that might change such kind of perspectives, but what are those and why do those happen?
Tomorrow if I request you to meet me and listen to my music, will you???? If you do, wouldn’t it be like an award for me whether that music is released or not…. if you don’t, wouldn’t it be a failure? And incase of such a failure, should I end up saying what great people like you, Brando or anyone else said about awards?????
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
You are not waiting for anyone!!!
R u not waiting for the Red? Well…then its good .
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
WOW! blew my mind!
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
SirG,
Nahin kisi ke liye PRATEEKSHA!! Nahin kisi ke liye Prateeksha.
Its a great humorous peace and a good executive summary of an Award Event Business plan. its all out in the open now.
Serious learning attached of the sportsmanship/merit of an artist (my english is poor to put a right word for artistsmanship).
This learning SirG, should also reach to the reality shows on TV. Less said the better. Participants of all ages and all demographics take part and end with a heart break. A controversy on a child’s health still to be resolved. Few of the them are going to become professional artists one day. They will also crowd the studio gates for getting a break.
They need to learn Man ko ho to accha , aur man ka na ho to aur bhi accha.
But who cares as long as the TRP is rising. More drama more conflict Higher TRP.
If there are not create them. Controversies get free publicity and more eyeballs.
We tend to practice in life whatever we have grown up with.
Chhota Mooh aur badi baat!!
Your self crowned CHELA,
Vinod Agarwal (Finished a 2 year full time production course in Business of Films and Television at Whistling Woods International. Looking for an opening as Assistant Producer Motion Pictures )
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
Well said. Professional world always has different motives, which is not obvious to many.
I agree that Ganga Jamuna is one of the best performance of Dilip Saheb. He is one of the finest actors.
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
“Swagat sab ke liye yahan par ; Nahin kissi ke liye prateeksha !
sir, kya baat hai ?
I say only,
” jo bit gayee so baat gayee, maana wo behad pyara tha”!
this is also a immortals lines of a great poet of india and your father.
Judgement of prize, always surprise many peoples.
as I remember in one interview MR Dhramendra ji said,In
every year of hope to winning the filmfare award ,He came to ceromany with dressed a New design coat and pants but Returned with surprise and shocked.
any way Greatest Award of any artist the LOve and affection of peoples decade to decade this is matchless ,invalueble.
some time in other sector also the Judgement of prize is not correct.
I don’t want compare it with mahatama Gandhi. But as far as prize concern , Nobel committee feels regret for not honoring him by Nobel prize.
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
What a good job you do here of conveying the madness, chaos and the pressure behind the scene of what we only see as a star filled glittering evening. Some of the insights like the though process behind sequence of performance, passes for mai baap ITax..very insightful.
I saw Ganga Jamuna recently. The performance of all the artists was of a high level, including of Dilip Kumar, Vyjayanti Mala. Performance of Kanhaiyalal stands out as well for its authenticity.
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Dear Amitabhji,
I have been an ardent fan of yours and will remain so…!!!
I loved the phrase
““Swagat sab ke liye yahan par ; Nahin kissi ke liye prateeksha !
It is so much related that we are always there for friends !!!
but life still goes on whether u or me are around or not.. life /time does not wait for any one…
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Hi sir!
i completely agree with what you say here……
i say its always nice to have an award for your efforts but if you dont win it but still you have millions of fans who love the movie and tellyou soo and you ourself feel your happy with it that an even greator award nno!?
you and your family in my prayers always and forever!!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
oh loooooooooove so much amit sir.
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Amit jee,
Charansparsh !
I say :
What counts most for most of the people - The revenue.
No matter it comes from present/future product (it could be anything).
ShubhDin !
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
“tellyou soo and you ourself feel your happy with it that an even greator award nno!? ”
correction : “tell you so and you yourself feel happy with it that is an even greater awar ….no!? “
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Thank you for blogging - this act of yours will truly inspire hope, confidence and revolution in the youth of India. We are lucky to have such a inspiring legacy from your father which you so clearly inculcate towards your own children.
Each one of us when alone knows the moments that truly matter, external recognition is optional -not necessary!
Keep up the good work,
Avi
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Respected Sir,
I just saw the telecast of IIFA 2008 where you advocated the noble cause of Global warming. I am very much pleased to hear you going ahead with this cause and i know that it will create the amount of awareness among our people.I also wish it will reach to all the people and create an awareness similar to the level of polio campaign.
Gandhiji once said that when one shows the path to common man, one should also follow the path.
I dont know if the observation I am going to make here will remain on this blog or will be taken away by your moderator but I would like to mention that I have seen pictures of you and your family travelling in SUVs several times in the media . SUVs… which have also been given the nick name of gas guzzlers. I know driving a BMW is a symbol of prestige n luxury but hope you understand my point and decide what is best for mother nature ..
I apologise for writing my views on this public platform but i wanted to bring this issue on your notice.
Thanks
Deep
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Nice. Sir, you’re a writer by the way.
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Dear Amitji,
Read with interest your comments on why ‘Guru’ was not chosen for awards. Sorry to say but you have slightly digressed from the topic. What is your personal opinion on this? If you were asked to vote for best actor or best picture, which one would you have gone for? Are you saying that Abhishek deserved it more than Shahrukh?
Please clarify.
Love
Rajesh
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
R/Sir,
Please do not mind the issues raised against your family. Take care of your health. We all are with you.
Regards,
Yash and family
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
we are looking forward to Hope 86 and events/concerts footages from 80s and 90s as private entries or archives enteries on your blog.Please Please upload such stuff soon.
Can u write in Urdu also ?
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
DEAR SIR,
HOW ARE YOU SIR? HOW WAS YOUR DAY?
TAKE CARE
BEST WISHES AND WARM REGARDS
HIMMAT SINGH GREWAL
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Hello.
You work so hard for us ! Thank you for that. Thank you for the love alway it ges strait to my heart.
I’m in agreance with the media changes alittle bit more positive towards the actors but they still can rear their ugly head evry now & then. Hope your family is getting better. Hugs & kisses to all,
Love Always,
Tressa Sheriff
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
hi,
sir,I am a fan of urs watch every movie of yours,I want to take your attention towards media that is like a wild bull in our country if you try to sit on it may be it will allow you for a moment,But soon or later you will fell from it and it depends on it what extend of harm it does to you.Sir,this electronic media should have a control or any law that controls it.Who better than you can know the praises and curses of media.This media uses people like you to increase there TRP all most all the news channels present entertainment than what should they severe”NEWS”.News is some thing that is related to the nation but what is going in between you and shahrukh I dont know how it effects the nation,Some may say they are icon and super star etc etc but dont they have the sense that it effects only you two not the whole country.Sir,I am saying all this to you because i think you can do some thing and can use media againt it.This people shows the tear of the mothers,Blood,deadbodies,all that should not be shown on television and no body is to control.From morning to night they show about various on going programmes,serials,contests,on other channel and advertise,and if time remain they show cricket and how can i forget”the Great Khali”.where is the news then where is the”NEWS”.I thought to right to the some gov website of very higher person but they are currently not accepting mails,i know its a nuclear problem on there site too.Sir,It hurts when they show all that and when a child fell in the hole the all media rushes there no one goes to Bastar in chattisgarh where every week there about half dozen of armed force people dies,Is this justice you show laughter show clips and not the people who die for your country plz sir if you can do some thing about it i will and the whole nation will be thankfull,
my best wishes for you and your family
amit shrotri
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July 6th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Amitji,
Regards
Sreeram
Big B group
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July 6th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
Amitji,
Today I watched Rajeev Masand’s review of Lovestory 2050 on CNN IBN.He trashed the film that was fine.But certain comments were too nasty.He said “watching this more than 3 hr long monstrous film you feel like prisioner of war.When you come out of the theatre,it is like you are out of concentration camp.I really felt sorry for new comer Harman Baweja.All his hard work for the past 2 yrs,has been brushed aside with one sarcastic comment.
Dont you think these kind of statements could severly blow one’s self confidence,especially if one is a newcomer
Regards
Sreeram
Yahoo Big B group
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July 6th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
For as long as there is srk there will be mediocrity, for as long there is srk he will win best actor awards for mediocrity, for as long as there is srk, there will be corruption, for as long as there is srk, we shall get worse actors who idolise him…….this is a single individual who has charmed the media and brought the entire awards into disrepute, one cringes when one thinks of him winning for dtph or veer zaara or kkhh…….one shudders that mediocrity is awarded and that too at every single award.
When a movie like Guru so brilliantly played by Abhishek is overlooked to accommodate srk, yes, the same srk who hasn’t given us a performance as top notch as guru, wins for chak de, you see the corruption straight out. When you aren’t nominated for best actor for movies like khakee, nishabd and akshay nominated for Welcome or Salman for Partner, you cringe, sure these are popular awards so does that mean that popular = mediocre? What the award institutions and the media fail to realise is how can the rest of the world take our cinema serious when they are constantly awarding and recognising mediocrity?
Many years back when, at your peak, you didn’t win awards for Zanjeer or Deewar and every blockbuster you had, that was annoying BUT atleast ito of performances the awards were given to the best and that was how high and tough the standards were but now, like you mentioned, its all commercial, its all about the money bro, you give me an award, I will dance at the awards - that is the state of the awards!!
Will this situation get any better……naah……money has overtaken morality a long time ago!!!! It makes better business sense, doesn’t it?!!!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Great thought to finishnthe post,yes we should be open to & welcome everyone but we should not wait or expect anyone & then crib ke yeh nahin aaya ya woh nahin mila. Regards Sandeep Monga
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July 6th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Dear Sir,
You said …..,
“The biggest recognition for any creative artist is his own personal assessment of his work. I believe all artists have the capability to judge themselves. If they do not or cannot then they do not possess the right to be artists. We should know within us whether we were good or bad. If we possess the ability to judge others, surely the parameters of judging oneself would be no different.”
But the hardcore fact remains hitting….. all personal assessment by the artist gets affected by the quantum of accolades he or she recives from the public or media.
Simple to understand…. no artist ever declares him or her, a bad performer, if he has been a box office hit or a critics hit, in spite knowing that he could not do the justice to the role…..
However, if the film is a flop….very few dare to declare that he or she did a bad job (RGV is an exception, on AAG flop)……rather artists prefer to offload their responsibility to the bad script, poor direction, bad screenplay and so many other factors…… probably is a Human Nature…!!
So, I am not fully agreed with you that…only the personal assessment of an artist matters, rather his/her personal assessment to his/her performance…is prominantly affected with the outcome of general repsonse by Public and Media…… !!!
This is my personal opinion and may not be endorsed by your kindself or film fraternity…!!!
A famous hindi proverb…. “Chadte Sooraj ko Sab Salaam Karte hai ”
Film hit tou sab hit….. otherwise, we just try to fit the failures as per our convenience & comfort….!!!
I am sure that… you too is an exception to this notion…like RGV…!!!
With Respect, Love and Faith…..!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
thank you sir and hats off!!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:08 pm
Dear Mr B,
These awards are not at all awards for talent but popular awards. I am no one to criticize, but Chak De! Winning best story and SRK best actor. There were surely better scripts and better performances. I wonder what happened to Bhavna Talwar. Where is her morcha now?
The awards should be decided by a panel of judges who are from the industry or have knowledge about it. For example: a group of directors and ‘critics’ decide on who gets the award for best director, so on and so forth. This will give some credibility to the award shows. Public voting is just a medium to earn money. We have seen a lot of it on TV shows too, where the best contestant is thrown out because he did not receive the sufficient votes. Most of the judges on these shows have also put a question mark on the credibility of public voting.
The way you have described how an award show works, how come you still want to be their brand ambassador?
-Vikas.
Big B Yahoo Group.
Kolkata.
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
maloom nahin ki ek baap likh raha hai
ye ek abhineta
par mudda garam tha aur usse bhi garam
tha aapka tark.
nirasha to ek baap ki dikhti hi hai spast
par usse bhi jyaga
dikh rahi hai ek kalakar hi manovyatha.
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Well said Mr Big B
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Dear Mr Bachchan,
Your sign off in this posting triggers in me a curiosity.
Why the name ‘Prateeksha’ for your first home? Did your father suggest it?
Musically yours,
Geetha
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
VISHAL TOSHNIWAL
ONE MORE ENEMY ON YOUR ENEMY LIST.
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Hi,
Yes, it’s been like a travesty of justice as far as Abhishek and awards (GURU) are concerned, right through the start of the year.
That’s why I’ve not ever brought him into the picture, I can see Darsheel being accomodated by
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
Eeks
this is going to be a repeat, but I punched something wrongly!
Hi,
Yes, it’s been like a travesty of justice as far as Abhishek and awards (GURU) are concerned, right through the start of the year.
That’s why I’ve not ever brought him into the picture, I can see Darsheel being accomodated by ‘critic awards’ etc (and he’d be deserving for that one film)…
But… ‘my god, how can we suppress our pettiness by awarding Abhishek, that’s a great way to get back at Amitabh’ …this, I’m assuming would be the reasoning).
Whether it’s because of the ‘putty effect’ (manipulation) or some other, I still think that, that would be in the minds of those concerned.
I agree with you about Jamuna Ganga and Dilip Kumar. “Gone With the Wind, didn’t win the Oscar, ‘Citizen Kane’ didn’t either. Abhishek is in great company. Logically
this means that he will be the GREATEST! 
Wishes
gilga
ps: BUT Wow! CAN you write! You do a marvellous job explaining
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Jamuna Ganga??????????????????????????????????
I can’t believe I wrote that!
Ganga Jamuna.
gilga
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
You are the GREATEST……..
Love n Respect,
rANJIT
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July 6th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
SIRJI
I READ THIS WHOLE BLOG…..BUT THE MASTER PICE FROM DADAJI WAS BEST.
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July 6th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
AB at his best — made my Sunday. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
Mr. Bachchan,
I do agree that awards are not always fair and balanced because so much goes into the final analysis of being rewarded or not rewarded. It is true that most awards are given not based on talent, skill, or being the absolute best. That is unfortunate. I saw Guru. I felt that Abhi had the best performance of any lead actor in 2007. Abhi really was exceptional. I felt that Abhi should have been given awards for his awesome turn in Guru. However Abhi was not even given one award for his acclaimed acting and charisma in Guru. For some odd reasons he was denied any awards. It was very clear that those in charge of the award shows were biased and had chosen to ignore the best male performance of 2007. That was very unfortunate.
However Abhi has already been given a gift by the very facts of Guru being a hit film, his performance being acclaimed, and how the film was highly acclaimed by critics. Guru will live on as a classic film with the public. So at the end of the day Abhi came out on top even without being given any awards. Abhi’s awards were given to him by the audience who loved the film and made it an acclaimed hit film. I think Abhi is one of the best actors in Hindi cinema. I think Abhi has loads of talent, range, versatility, and charisma. His career is young. Its only a matter of time before Abhi begins winning best actor awards for his performances.
Best wishes!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
woo….some serious response there……I do observe that you do not take criticism lightly. That too undue criticism. Most of your responses (i dont say all) have been to people whose replies are insensibly critical. There have been incessent responses similar to the one above or maybe why Aamir’s film was not entered into IIFA, et al. You dont seem to take such replies lightly.
Whenever some fan asks such questions, you go to rare lengths to respond. In the process, the your answers tend to be ‘positively’ spiteful. That might be a new term for you (in fact i never heard of that).
Socrates, said, “its not worth to hear everyone’s argument”. People talk thoughtlessly. You cant deny them that choice because its a free country. But by responding to such unworthy criticism, you are setting a pattern. More and more readers think that Mr. Bachchan does not like undue criticism. And they will ask questions - not genuinely - but for the heck of it. Same with the media. You keep answering the same questions from the media again and again. Inspite your insistence that this question was asked a zillion times, they repeat it. Perhaps your frequency of media interviews should be reduced ?
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July 6th, 2008 at 6:42 pm
It has become an addiction now to read ur blog everyday whatever time I could make from my busy work schedule cause it’s like a Self-Help book for me right now!
Your thoughts are so relevant to every sphere of life!
As an architect, a creative person I could understand & connect & learn positivism from you & that’s why I now look forward to reading ur blog everyday!
I liked Abhishek’s acting in Guru immensely, he lived the role ……………..& you’re right! Even if he hasn’t won any award for it he has won many hearts with this performance of his & that counts the most.
Aapke PitaShri ke ye shayaari mainne diary mein note karke rakh liye, sahin bole unhone!
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July 6th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Films that are released in the early part of the year are at a disadvantage when it comes to awards held the following year. This is true in most industries, the Oscars being a good example. Guru released in January ‘07, had it released in December it might have had a better shot.
Having said this I think it unreasonable to deny (and you certainly hint at some of it here) that most Bombay film awards are rather ‘compromised’! I shall be a little polite today and not say more! Utpal Dutt’s great line makes even more sense in the contemporary environment!
But you are absolutely correct in suggesting that many great performances have not been honored and Abhishek is in more august company this way! Quite literally.
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
Hi Mr Bachchan,
I enjoyed your comment.
For me, Abhishek is the big winner in the last year because I know that his performance in Guru was the best. It’s weird that the film didn’t receive all the prices which it deserved.
Hats off AR RAHMAN and Sheryas Goshal for the music and the song “Barso re” in Guru.
Take care of your health
Alisha
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Dear Amit ji,
Baagunnaraa? amazing post.i thought by the 73rd day got used to ur flow of thoughts,play of words,clear way of expressing urself,perfect english,but no, am still amazed,wonderstruck. so open & forthright. i agree with u,awards r not the ultimate judgement of one’s work,at the same time an honestly won award boosts one to better one’s self
i request u again that it is not fair that when only hindi cinema is represented it being called indian cinema.pl give a thought ab what i mean.
happy that things r coming back to normal in the homefront.
regards,wishes,love,
s.
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
Very nicely put. Thanks for the comment. However, I believe that Guru was not only the film that deserved the award this year, The award winning film Taare Zameen par was really good. The next film Chak de India was also wonderful, and Shah Rukh Khan did a very nice job. He was perfect for getting the best ator award. The award was fair, as I think… And as it is people who voted for it, as you said, it can’t be wrong. Yes, the popularity might be the deciding factor. But that doesn’t mean that popularity comes without your ability to act.
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
First I want to say that I love the way you describe the whole awards process with your great sense of humor interjected. I always think that it must be so hard to choose one creative performance over another apart from all those complications you have described.
Do you think another factor is that Guru was released at the very beginning of the year? Isn’t this a disadvantage when so much time has gone by that only the most recent movies are fresh in people’s minds?
I’m one of the few here who has not watched the IIFA Awards but I think I can get it on DVD.
I’m pretty new to the whole Indian film awards scene but the first thing I noticed is that there seem to be an endless stream of awards ceremonies extending over almost the whole following year.
I agree with your view that the award isn’t the most important thing and what people carry away with them in their minds is more important. Years later it is the work itself that is remembered and not who won which award.
Love,
Rochelle
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
This is one of the reasons why I only watch the award functions for the entertainment it provides.The awards given to these artists are in the way it affects the people’s lives.Pity that they will never know how much and to what heights one sometimes feels like thanking them…
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
The biggest recognition for any creative artist is his own personal assessment of his work. I believe all artists have the capability to judge themselves. If they do not or cannot then they do not possess the right to be artists. We should know within us whether we were good or bad. If we possess the ability to judge others, surely the parameters of judging oneself would be no different.
If you can judge yourself, and reward yourself, what do you need the very public you seem to seek blessing?
GURU was a bakwas movie by any stretch of imagination, As if Abhi wasn’t enough, director also had Ash and Mithun as a icing on the cake. I watched it only because you said, you had liked Abhi’s performance in Guru.
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Sir,
I was surprised that you didnt get any nomination in best actor category.
Your performance in Cheeni Kum or Eklavya were definitely worthy of nomination.
I hope this year you get a big nomination for sarkar-raj because so far in 2008 its the best performance of the year.
Abhishek was outstanding in Guru. But then again SRK was outstanding in Chak-De.In fact Chak-De might be SRK’s best performance till date. So popularity wise it was tough to beat that.
In 1975 ,Deewar won all awards (beating sholay in several categories) but the best thing about Deewar ,your performance, didnt get an award. Sanjeev Kumar got it for Aandhi. Its tough.
I get a feeling that Shoebite will be a performance to watch for. May be even better than Black ?
regards,
prasad
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Hello Amit uncle:
Since the discussion is about Award shows, I’d like to take this opportunity to comment on the Indian Award shows. Okay I understand the necessity of adding song and dances in award shows because these are the heart and soul of Indian cinema and it is fun to see the variety of performances albeit they can go too far with the numbers. I mean why have ten to fifteen performances when they can make it short and sweet by having a few?
My other beef about these award shows is the host or hosts. At least a prestigious and the oldest award ceremony such as the Filmfare can be different and unique by perhaps following the style of the Academy Awards a.k.a the Oscars. Have just one host and instead of making corny jokes that are way over the top most of the time (no offense to shahrukh and saif but they went overboard with their hosting in the last filmfare award show) I think good humor can make the entire show very enjoyable. I am sure the organizers watch the Oscars every year, I don’t mean they have to copy the exact format but at least try to have decent hosts who can transcend the show to a different level. And try to limit the acceptance speeches as well.
I just wanted to share my opinion, that’s all.
Thank you
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July 6th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
The manner in which you described what goes into the execution of an award ceremony was superb. I was chuckling all the way…
Keep writing, and take care
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July 6th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
This is my “debut” post to you although I have been reading your articles on this website for quite sometime now. I must say that I am extremely impressed by the way you think, write and communicate. Your clarity of thought coupled with excellent vocabulary makes every post / article of yours worth reading.
You are, have been and will continue to be my biggest “source of inspiration”. I choose the words “source of inspiration” over “actor”, “star”, “superstar” or “legend” because I find you so down-to-earth and deep rooted - to culture, to humanity, to your fans, to yourself. Perhaps, that is what seperates the real YOU from the “Big B” or “Shahenshah”
I have tremendous respect for the precision with which you address issues close to your heart and posted by zillion fans. It shows your sincerety towards the whole act and it’s overwhelming to see you strike a fine balance between your super-hectic schedules and communicating with fans. This is what I appreciate the most in you - complete sincerety.
I wish you continued success in your endeavours of taking Indian Cinema to the global audience and may you continue to inspire a whole lot of individuals like us who want to make a difference.
I wish you the very Best of Luck, Sir.
With Warm Regards,
Sandeepan Bhattacharya
Hyderabad
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July 6th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Lagta hai, aapki jhaant mein aag lag jaati hai abhishek ki burai sun kar.
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July 6th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
Dear Amitji,
That was an extremely well written piece, worthy of appreciation. You gave us an immensely interesting insight into how the film award machinery works. And with all the dynamic interactions between publicity, press, moolah and money, appreciation of performance is certainly the last thing on the mind. Everyone likes being applauded. But to rue that you were not recognized is of no use. Keep going. Make your own trail. And accept whatever comes your way.
Congratulations once again on a well written piece which you ought to be proud of.
Love
Anshu
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July 6th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
great lines you quoted from yr father….totally true…and anyways indian awards are basically full of craps…always non actors win the best trohy those…who dont know basically how to act…so i dont give a damn to indian awards…for me abhishek in guru was best performance anybody gave after agnipath….
bless you
john
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Sir, do you reckon that the quality of an artist’s work is quantifiable, be in terms of an award or being rated the best? At what point does an accolode become absolute? At what time does it become objective and objective alone? Or is that not possible.
Signing off,
Saadia (Pakistan)
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
आदरणीय अमिताठजी…सादर नमसà¥à¤•à¤¾à¤°! आपके विचारों से मैं सहमत हूअपरनà¥à¤¤à¥ ये à¤à¥€ तो है…जैसा कहते हैं:
“योगà¥à¤¯à¤¤à¤¾ वà¥à¤¯à¤•à¥à¤¤à¤¿à¤¤à¥à¤µ के à¤à¤• चौथाई का निरà¥à¤®à¤¾à¤£ करती है…
शेष निरà¥à¤®à¤¾à¤£ समà¥à¤®à¤¾à¤¨ से होता है…”
शà¥à¤à¤•à¤¾à¤®à¤¨à¤¾à¤“ं सहित,
- सूतà¥à¤°à¤§à¤¾à¤°
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
amitji–why u are blog at vet hospital, parel? is your pet sick? how many pets do u keep?
u always keep promise–so u must be doing yr best for school in UP too.
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Hi Mr. Bachchan,
You are absolutely right. You, Abhishek, Mani Ratnam and all who wathced the movie Guru knows that he should have won the award for best actor and best director of the year. I do believe that Chak de was excellant movie but no way Shahrukh was best actor of the year. If anyone who deserved best actor of the year award besides Abhi than it was Akshay Khanna for My father Gandhi. Keep working, give your best and people will come to watch and appreciate your hard work.
Thanks,
Vijay Rao, Lincoln Park, NJ, USA
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Great…really great to understand this perspective. it really throws light and understand things how we should improve on our perception, our understanding on looking at things.
You have really explained it so well and Thanks a lot !!! it really helps to debate on these thoughts and improve on our thoughts.
And you put it so well and in such a simple manner.
I love you !!!
Warm Regards,
Rajesh
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
ka bole tum miya
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July 6th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Amitabh da !
I salute your wit and humour that so deftly wrapped the irony !
What you wrote is absolutely correct interpretation of present day Award Ceremonies !
Hats off to your writing skills that you could bring out the undercurrent of recognisition fixing so well.
MY SUGGESTION : WHY DONT YOU WRITE A SCREENPLAY/SCRIPT OF YOUR OWN MOVIES ! I CAN TELL YOU THAT YOU HAVE A HIDDEN TALENT WHICH ONLY NOW PEOPLE ARE RECOGNISING !
Warm regards
SKV
handy : +91-9811013969
e-mail : yourcontactindia@hotmail.com
(Report abuse)
July 6th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Sir,
Extremely well written!
‘We need to work harder not necessarily on our craft’….says it all how things work.
Some star’s wife got ‘Queen of Bollywood’ award…isn’t that really stupid?
I really lament the way some star wants to be the No 1. Neither he has the talent nor the humanity to carry that tag.
Love and regards,
Debashis
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July 6th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
Wonderful….
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July 6th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
Hello Mr.Bachchan !
Sir, you and Akshay Kumar are my favourite actors in the whole of bollywood. Sir sometimes I feel that Akshay Kumar looks like you when you were young tall,goodlooking and handsome.What do you think about that do you think that way about him ? Sir day before yesterday I saw your old films with Akshay Kumar Family and the other I don’t remember its name but I think it was Waqt. Sir are there anyother films you have done with him I would really like to see you guys in one movie again. About those films Sir I really couldn’t control my emotions while watching Family and I really developed bad feelings about you but then on the other channel I think Sony there was Waqt on and I really liked your acting. Sir this shows that you do all types of roles so good you are the best man. Sir please don’t mind if I said something wrong I am only 14. Sorry.
Bye…
Take Care…
Danial…
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July 6th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
Dear Amit ji
I’m amazed by ur magnanimity…..with due respects 2 ur views, I believe that GURU is one of the best films of Indian Cinema and Abhishek’s performance, par excellance. Period.
i don’t want 2 take anything away frm TZP or OSO but at the same time cann’t stop laughing at these award shows…..
May b, its time 2 have different categories of films for nominations and award giving. A few categories, i can think of, are, film with a social message,entertaining film,film with maximum impact, film with brilliant performances, film with an original idea and REMAKES.
By not giving an award to GURU, the credibility of those in the jury has gone down. narcisim of those who won was disgusting.
Another incident which comes 2 my mind is ur films like AALAP and MAH.
but then u always were above these awards….
Just wish, Abhishek too grows bigger than these petty awards.
Best regards
Sandeep
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
Interesting, insightful and downright funny in parts. Enjoyed reading your piece.
BTW, have seen your Bhoothnath finally. Ok in my opinion, but superlative in the opinion of my five year old son who has made me watch it a good 6-7 times already. He cannot yet separate characters from actors, so you are Bhootnath to him. In last few days I have tried showing him some other movies of yours but you are still Bhootnath! We are yet to learn who you are but it is something close to ‘Abhiksha Bachcha’!!
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Your quoting the line from your father…gave a new meaning to the fact that your abode is called Prateeksha.
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
Seems like you’re getting a tad self-righteous about all these Customs and IT guys who are getting preferential treatment considering you don’t shun such treatment yourself when it is on offer, most notably in places where “all are equal” i.e. the house of God, well all are equal unless previously intimated by the district magistrate seems to be the case.
Hold up a mirror Mr.B. Practicality is an excuse, a person of your stature should refuse to hide behind.
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Hi Sirji
One thing we know the awards r all corrupted…. all purchased…..no awards in india is genuine in film industry…… all depends on money…. if money collectiion was the base Oscar to award then “Spiderman” should have won the best actor award……
we know the partial days….. u deserved for Zanjeer, Deewar, Aakhrirasta,Kabhikabhi,Silsila,Sharabhi,,,,,, but they were biased and did not give u…… it always happens in Filffare coz its laways Filn Unfair
Guru definitely deserved the best actor award…… 100%performance and perfect acting…. chak de had no real work to give SRK…..
And one more thing 2 win awards in India …. your film should be released in Aug-Dec…. thats the formula….
Thanks
AMITMK
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:27 pm
I also thought that Abhishek’s performance was far far better than srk’s chak de. Chek de performance was good but Baby B’s performance was better.
I too was very disappointed that Abhishek didn’t get any award for Guru, which he deserves.
All awards have lost their credibility. Today no one even question them.
love u hamesha,
ajay lodha
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Thanks , Its good that you wrote that as part of your Diary, I was about to ask yourself the same things few days ago.
Why is that Awards are so Predictable, and the Non Deserving always get the awards and the one who really excelled didnot even got nominated.
Not Sure which awards do we have next but here is what will happen there (Theory of Recurrence)
- Either S Khan and Saif as Anchor OR Karan Johar (Depends on Availability ).
- Kareena Dances on Jab We Met - Mauja Mauja.
- Best Actor - S Khan - Chak De
- Best Actress - Kareena Kapoor - Jab We Met
- Best Debut - Ranbeer Kappor
- Best Debut - Deepika Padukone
Where were Good Movies like Manorma Six Feet Under,Johnanny Gaddar ?
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July 6th, 2008 at 11:59 pm
By The Way, I Wanted to Share that I Predicted Abhishek to be the next Big Big Superstar after You., when his first Movie Refuge was released.
It was all in his eyes, ridiculous it may sound ,but its true, he seems to have the same aura as you have, Thats why i always belived in him, even though he had major spats of flops in between.
(I always had to be a looser when i took sides of Abhi on all Major Discussions on my Ride Back in my Office Cab from Delhi to Gurgaon, Many Many Moons ago)
Mark My Words and see what happens in next 10 Years……..
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July 7th, 2008 at 12:04 am
hello uncle ji….
यà¥à¤ तो बहà¥à¤¤ कà¥à¤› है पास मेरे फिर à¤à¥€ कà¥à¤› कमी सी है
घिंरा हूठचारो तरफ़ मà¥à¤¸à¥à¤•à¥à¤°à¤¾à¤¤à¥‡ चेहरो से
फिर à¤à¥€ जिनà¥à¤¦à¤—ी में उजाले à¤à¤°à¤¨à¥‡ वाली उस मà¥à¤¸à¥à¤•à¥à¤°à¤¾à¤¹à¤Ÿ की कमी सी है
दिख रही है पहचान अपनी ओर उठते हर नज़र में….
फिर à¤à¥€ दिल को छॠलेने वालि उस निगाह की कमी सी है
गà¥à¤à¥›à¤¤à¤¾ है हर दिन नये किसà¥à¤¸à¥‹, कोलाहल और ठहाको से
फिर à¤à¥€ कानो में गà¥à¤¨à¤—à¥à¤¨à¤¾à¤¤à¤¿ उस खामोशी कि कमी सी है
बॠरहे है कदम मेरे पाने को नयी मनà¥à¥›à¤¿à¤²à¥‡à¤‚
फिर à¤à¥€ इन हाथो से छà¥à¤Ÿ चà¥à¤•à¥‡ उन नरम हाथो की कमी सी है
Manzile bhi uski thi,rasta bhi uska tha.
ek main akela tha, kafila bhi uska tha.
saath-saath chalne ki soch bhi uski thi,
fir raasta badalne ka faisla bhi uska tha.
aaj kyon akela hoon, dil sawal karta hai,
log to uska the, per kya khuda bhi uska tha..?
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July 7th, 2008 at 12:09 am
hello sir ,yes i think you r right. very busy will write later take care love rakhi UK
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July 7th, 2008 at 12:36 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Artists may have this ability to judge their own works, assess themselves, they maybe able to know whether they are good or bad and what are their points of strength and points of weakness. That’s great of course. But I have the believe that any talent or any achievement should be acknowledged, recognized, and awarded. that’s what it deserves. it gives more impetus for hard work, and for more creativity. If good achievements and works are not valued and given the recognition they deserve, so what should be recognized and valued?!!!
that’s what I thought is happening in film awards, before I got to read that it is not like what it looks. but rather some very good projects might be marginalized and even ignored and other undeserving works are acknowledged and awarded, yea as demanded by certain people.
Now I got to understand why Brando rejected the Oscar, it is not because he sees himself as a mediocre actor, but because he sees that these awards are of no real value, as they are not really awards that acknowledge the creativity of the work.
But I really wonder if actors and artists are aware of this fact, and of what happens in functions like film festivals, why some of these actors are always after them, trying to get them by all means.
However, the real award of any work of art is its recognition by the people, the audience, who give their opinions unasked, and with no other intentions.
with love,
Rasha Zayed.
BigB yahoo group.
Cairo, Egypt.
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July 7th, 2008 at 1:29 am
Ha! ha! ha!
Wit!!!……….Wit!!!…….. and more Wit!!!……
….Get the most popular hit lists. Is there a terrorist threat ? Idiot ! The song hit lists!!
……off that ‘ interview cap’ and put on ‘cap humble’. Any color will do lady ! NO !! No ! Not yellow !!
……They are important people. From Delhi, baby ! Ok, ok, the Income Tax and Customs we can put them in the general enclosure. Are you mad !! They run the country. Right now they may run my bank balance dry. I must have them up right in front. They want that !
Ha! ha! ha!…..
You’re too much!!!! This entry had me in stitches….
Love and Goodnight and God Bless….
Rose C
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July 7th, 2008 at 1:30 am
Awards are just that, awards! No wonder Utpal da (Dutt) and Marlon Brando either despised awards or stayed miles away from them! So does Amir Khan.
Sir, you have so lucidly summarised the raison d’etre of awards. Having said that, I am confident, there would be a few exceptions - for e.g., the IIFA Awards. Agreed, some element of commecial compulsions would invariably creep in, but what matters the most is the intergrity and intent of the award’s producers and brand ambassadors. IIFA Awards surely pass the muster with distinction!
I can’t agree more that it doesn’t matter whether one receives accolades for distinctive work in the form of awards. It is the rare power to rule the hearts and minds of movie goers that counts in the end. Dilip Sahab had it. You have it. Little b, Abhishek, is trying very hard to follow in your footsteps. He surely is exhibiting all signs of achieving this all important goal. That’s it!
Wimbledon Men’s Final is up for a nail bitting finish. May the best man win! Both Federer and Nadal have played their best tennis this evening.
Love
Neeraj
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July 7th, 2008 at 1:33 am
Now watching “Hera Pheri”, in between catching up with blog, and email.
Rose C
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July 7th, 2008 at 1:34 am
Dear Amitabhji (GURUJI),
!! ABOUT THE UNFORGETTABLE TOUR 2008 !!
Please consider Atlanta,GA location in USA because it is the biggest center for southeast USA and can cover all southeast states.
There are lots of Indians( and south Asians) in southeast USA and most concerts come here and always do well.
There is no nearby location for your concert. All locations are very far from here like New York,Atlantic City,Houston,Los Angeles,San Francisco,chicago etc.
So please consider Atlanta,GA,USA so the concert evenly spread out in the USA.
Not considering Atlanta,GA means you are missing out a big chunk of US audience.
I hope you will read this.
As always,
Aap ka subhchintak
Neal
USA
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July 7th, 2008 at 2:11 am
Dear Sir,
i am following your blog from few days… its like opening-up your mind before the people.. this topic,it was in my mind all these days…but, reading about the same issue, that too from your experience,it really makes all the doubts about awards,award-functions clear…
thankful to you for clearing the doubt about awards…
and one more thing…i like the song “kabhee kabhee mere dil mein” with your intro voice… and this song is my favourate song from the day i listened this song in my childhood(1980s) in my old radiolistening days,when i was having lunch in my home in my school-lunch break time…..the depth in your voice… i still feel your voice…..
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July 7th, 2008 at 2:14 am
Hello Mr Bachchan,
I do agree with you that film like Guru needs appreciation its really unfortunate that we have ignored such brilliant work from Mani and others .
There is reason why sensible actor like Amir khan stopped attending the award functions. Its high time media should start giving some serious thoughts on their mode of operations
Above talks just reminds me of Dustin Hoffman.John Travelta movie Madcity..
-Praveen
.
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July 7th, 2008 at 2:15 am
Y do u say that ‘ hum kis khet ki mooli hai’ ? No need to be so humble.
Waise- hum ne suna hai ki aap “kisaan” bhi hain. Gaajar/mooli ki kaafi jaankaari hogi aapko.
Sanjeet
Fiji Islands
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July 7th, 2008 at 2:38 am
Mr. Pachan,
I believe that awards, trophies, etc. which normally given to film stars never indicates who’s the best actor of the year, who’s the best director of the year, who’s the best singer of the years, who’s the most beautiful lady in this world this year, ( and specially the most beautiful woman in the world which is completely wrong!! and simply because the juries didn’t knock all the beautiful woman’s door round the world and asked them if they want to join the campaign!) we can never evaluate any human being with all these material stuff, and as u mentioned about Dilip Kumar is an example.
We evaluate an actor by his performance and by the number of fans he/she got in this world, and every actor/actress got different fans e.g. some people love white, some love red, some people find Shahrukh is attractive and some find Hritik or Salman, and that’s because what we see and feel is different than others. People’s taste, level of thinking, education, culture, hobbies are different like fingers are different in one hand.
Some people love Rajanikanth and some love Amitab Pachan. Bigb got his million of fans and the other actor does as well ( but can we compare Bigb with Rajan?? No comparison ofcourse, they’re different like the sky and earth.. but each got his million of fans, actors are different and their fans are too.
By the way, I didn’t love Aamir Khan’s (Jaane Tue..yaah Jaane Na) and I’m certain that you’d never hurt your colleagues and say that their movie wasn’t good, honestly I’d say ( and I mentioned it in Aamir Khan’s blog as well) that the movie was a crap, weak in direction, boring, good for teenagers, and there were unnecessary scenes in the movie with some actors like Arbaaz and Suhail Khan as well as Naseeruddin Shah
The only good thing in the movie was Smita Patel’s son ( an interesting actor, I loved him, and he got his mom’s face features) but Emran & the girl, they lacked a strong presence as actors).
I found it a bad boring movie, and others (on Indicine website) found it an excellent one! That’s how we are different!
Good night Mr. Pachan
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July 7th, 2008 at 3:05 am
Dear Amitabh
Everybody knows that you were and are the Biggest Star in Hindi Cinema. First of all I would like to ask you how many awards did you achieved in your career life? I think not many, as compare to the hit list of your films. But then how come you become Star of the Millennium?
I think you are right, awards are not about performance only , it is about voting and likeness, and there is also some politic involved in and outside the industry as well.
The Biggest award for the actor is its appreciation for his performance in any film.
That’s it; awards can be plus but not minus.
Take care.
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July 7th, 2008 at 3:10 am
Sour grapes again Mr.Bachchan.. I thought Abhishek did well in the movie but I thought there were other better performances last year..
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July 7th, 2008 at 3:11 am
Sorry could not catch up earlier . Abhishek definitely deserved an award. In every field there is politics whenever award is concerned. You gave an in-depth sequence of the award function, liked it.
:)ïŠ
Once again thank you for bloging ,even though so many people take advantage of this site to abuse you .
I am sure his talent will be recognized one day. I feel he did not get an award because of the negative feelings in the industry and media regarding Abhishek and Aishwarya’s marriage. I salute him for doing glamour less character in his first film and he did a great job .How many newcomers have that kind of guts? My good wishes and prayers are always with him. Our (fans) accolades are his best award. As you said, one should be aware and able to judge their own work.
I wish time would allow me to write more on the subject but have to attend the guests from India, as you know in LA guests are dependent on us, since public transportation is so painful. Happy to know all is fine in your family.
Take care
Sumi
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July 7th, 2008 at 3:17 am
Dear Amitji,
wonderfully said- although, I beleive Guru deserved not one, but amny awards, including Best Actor for Abhishek, Best actress for Aishwarya, and best film.
Ashesh
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July 7th, 2008 at 3:18 am
I liked your take on award shows. However I can’t resist commenting about the latest IIFA show which reeked of bad taste and partiality. Aamir Khan was made the butt of many a joke. And his movie TZP was completely avoided. And to top it all ” Partner” was nominated. It makes one wonder if Govinda performing at the show had anything to do with it.
I know that IIFA makes it a point to highlight upcoming releases in the course of its show. But it really diminishes the credibility of the show. Last year, we had to put up with the gaudy publicity stunts of Apne, this year it was Love Story 2050, Acid Factory and few others.
Finally, and importantly, Shankar Ehsaan and Loy are barely nominated. It saddens me that the politics of the industry bar these talent musicians from any accolades.
I do not in any way attribute the fore-mentioned points to you. But as a brand ambassador of IIFA, you could perhaps convey whatever you deem fit to those in charge.
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July 7th, 2008 at 6:37 am
Dear Amitji,
Well said Sir, but I personally think Guru deserves an award both for direction and best actor…I also was wondering why it didn’t get any of these in any of these award functions but as you said people involved in selection system didn’t think like me..matter finis…but the film will remain with us for long time and honestly speaking I was not a big fan of Abhishek before Guru..but after that movie I am expecting more from him in each movie (sarkar raj was excellent). He became big star with Dhoom and more importantly big actor with Guru and I hope that he continues to excel like this.
All the best for him.
Vinay
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July 7th, 2008 at 6:47 am
Hi Amitji,love and regards gurpreet
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July 7th, 2008 at 6:52 am
“Swagat sab ke liye yahan par ; Nahin kissi ke liye prateeksha ”
kya baat hai sir
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July 7th, 2008 at 7:26 am
““Swagat sab ke liye yahan par ; Nahin kissi ke liye prateeksha !”
Beautiful line…
The post was good too.
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July 7th, 2008 at 8:54 am
Dear Amitji,
The greatest achievement for an artiste is always recognition from fans and peers for his/her work. I guess this is the most satisfactory moment for actors.
I remember you writing that after the Sarkar Raj premiere Karan Johar coming and touching your feet since he was awestruck by your performance. What better accolades can an actor get ?
Also there can be 5 ,10 or 15 brilliant movies made in the same year but fitting all the awards in to satisfy each movie’s brilliance is next to impossible.
But lets not take anything away from the brilliance of a movie.Its beauty is inherently portrayed by on screen heroics. Abhishek’s landmark performance in Guru not withstanding i still think his best performance was in Yuva.
Regards/Prem Mohanty
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July 7th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Awards are never a symbol of merit, atleast not for me, i have seen that many good artist hardly ever got any award like Pran shaeb, Sanjeev kumar, Naseeruddin shah, Ompuri,Dharmendra,Rekha,Govinda.Salman Even today Rajpal Yadaw is a comedian par excellence but he hasnt got it.Sop awards are always given to the actors who are popular or powerful,with a good PR not for the actor par excellence.For me the actors mentioned above are way above than those who are getting awards year after year.
We always see the functions for the entertainment now, awards ar eonly an added advt, where we have to listen to all those phony thanks.And in entertainment nobody can beat the combo of Shahrukh and Saif as anchor.
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July 7th, 2008 at 9:24 am
Karm kar…phal ki iccha naa kar! That is so true!!
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July 7th, 2008 at 9:38 am
Dear Amitabh Bachchan,
The thoughts I would like to share here came to me as a response to several of your blog entries.
The situation with Ram Gopal Varma’s films in India reminded me of what took place in a different country & culture.
Russian film director Andrey Tarkovsky was making masterpiece after masterpiece but he was not unquestionably acknowleged either by the majority of the population nor by the official publicity.
His cinema was something new & different for the daily agenda.
His cinema language was a remarkable novelty which was identified by the critics as “poetic cimema” or “elitist cinema” - and the last term was not meant to sound too flattering to the ears of the contemporaries…( Luckily, only ethically acceptible criticism was allowed to be officially published. )
I perceive that poetic language of cinema gives a kind of spiritual depth or an extra dimension to the visual plane of the film.( It was something that Ram Gopal Verma’s movies reminded me of.) I believe it comes directly from the talent of the director & his perception of the world and it can be achieved by various methods…
Time passed, changes came, audience became more receptive & openminded and now there are festivals of Tarkovsky’s films, documentaries about his life & wide appreciation for his unparalleled art.
But back then in the 1980s (my teen years) his movies were hardly screened at all ! It was a rare occasion to see them in any of the more than 160 cinema theaters in Moscow - the capital city. I had to take a 3-hours-one-way ride on a suburb train to see his film “Mirror” (my only chance in no-DVD era).
The theatre was half empty and during the screening some of people were leaving making rude remarks on being cheated out of there ticket expenses…
It makes me wonder if there is always a sure correlation between the numbers and the quality of art or wether true art happens to be more then just an entertainment. There are many precedents to it in many cultures including American.In this world generally quality & quantity often seem to be on opposite terms.
But what is also true - every film finds its viewer.
For me Tarkovsky films were everything. It satisfied the thirst of my soul. It benefited so much to my spiritual development !
So I can testify it gave something invaluably important to at least one such insignificant person on Earth as myself…
I saw only one movie by Ram Gopal Varma ( so far ! : )) - “Nishabd” but the