Book: Three classic films of Gulzar: Angoor, Ijazat, Aandhi
Author: Sathya Saran, Saba Mahmood Bashir & Mira Hashmi
Publisher: Harper Collins
Price: Rs 299
Harper Collins’ tribute to the cinematic genius of Gulzar by bringing out a set of three books on his three films must gladden the hearts and minds of the legions of fans this magnificently creative man has. Gulzar is a polymath, who has excelled in all the spheres of creative expressions, be it a wondrous poet, engaging raconteur or an innovative filmmaker. In short, he has worn many caps and his admirers have always doffed their hats to his greatness.
The films are: Aandhi, Angoor and Ijazat written by Saba Mahmood Bashir, Sathya Saran and Mira Hashmi respectively. Gulzar is basically a poet. So, his poetic self seeps into other artistic fields he has ventured into and distinguished himself. Gulzar is also a politically aware person.
An admirer of Bengali cinema and literature, Gulzar roped in Indian Greta Garbo, Suchitra Sen as the female protagonist against one of his favourite male actors Sanjeev Kumar. Saba has beautifully brought out the creative journey and process of Gulzar while making and filming the near-iconic Aandhi. The songs of Aandhi are still worth-humming and haven't yet gone with the wind.
The second book has been penned by the veteran journalist Sathya Saran. She chose Angoor, one of the best-loved comedies in Hindi cinema. This movie delineates the lighter side of Gulzar, who adroitly localised the Bard of Avon’s Comedy of Errors. Through her cinematic gimlet eyes, Sathya explores what lies behind the evergreen appeal of Angoor, with memories and anecdotes shared by Gulzar himself.
The third one is: Mira Hashmi’s Ijazat. Gulzar’s interpretation of a love triangle in Ijazat explores the strength and fragility of human relationships. He deftly handled a sensitively fragile subject. Years ago, film critic Iqbal Masood asked Gulzar about his creative muse. Gulzar told him that love itself was his muse. So very true. Love, in all its avatars, appeals to the bard. One song of this film, Mera kuchh saamaan tumhare paas pada hai... in Asha Bhonsle’s husky and evocative voice is still played with a nostalgic sigh of wistfulness.
All three movies and their cinematic sojourns have been nicely described by these ladies who have been able to bring out some shades of Gulzar’s otherwise enigmatic persona and brooding presence. This set of books is bound to impress the innumerable admirers of Gulzar.
