Subhash Ghai
The director, producer-screenwriter, known for giving hits like Kalicharan, Karz and Khalnayak, speaks with Shalini Saksena about his journey in Hindi cinema as his production house Mukta Arts turns 40
Did you think you would survive four decades in the industry?
I began my production house Mukta Arts on October 24, 1978 with the movie Karz with `10,000. God has been kind in terms of business, quality of my movies and other aspects of the entertainment industry. We were always forward looking. We began our journey with an aim to stay for a long haul. I am blessed that people still love the kind of work that we put out there and we are marching ahead.
You knew that you were in the industry to stay then?
I worked on two factors. First, to explore new ideas and avenues. Second, always think in long-term. We never had short-term goals. That is why Mukta Arts is where it is today.
If you had to choose one project that is close to your heart, which one would it be?
For a director, every project that he does is close to his heart otherwise he can’t make the movie. The same applies to me. But if I had to choose one film that was unlike a typical Subhash Ghai film, it has to be Black and White (2008). There were challenges involved. The budget was small and the film took a third dimension on terrorism. Most of the directors congratulated me and told me that this was one of my best works.
What is the atmosphere on your sets like?
There are three things — fun, freedom and discipline. I pamper the people when there is a need for it. There are more than 150 people working on the sets; this is not including the actors. One has to keep the crew in humour to get the best work out of them on time. But there has to be discipline as far as timing and work ethics are concerned. People know if I get angry, I really let loose but they also know that when I pamper, everyone knows that they are loved.
How did you manage to give such great music for your films?
Music for my films is born when I write the script, be it the mukhda, the nature of the music, or the tune. That’s why most of the songs in my movies didn’t look as if they were forced into the storyline; they were an integral part of the film. I would sit with the music composers and directors and let them know what I wanted at the very beginning. This made the songs such an important part of the movies.
Why is there need to inspire the youth today?
Giving them direction and inspiring is necessary given that there are so many options available to them today. There is too much information out there and the youth is confused which path they need to follow. They need guidance.
How crucial is teaching creativity?
It is important that the children be given skill training so that they can excel in life. Of course, theory is necessary as well. We have a mantra — accept all, respect all. Do what you love. For example, even if a sound technician has the skills he needs to understand the emotions of the scene so that he can give proper music designing for a particular shot.
Where does Mukta Arts go from here?
We are working on Broadways, web-series, theatre and short films.
What about movies? Will it be a typical Subhash Ghai movie?
Yes, there are a few projects that we are exploring. And no, it won’t be a typical Subhash Ghai movie. The subject will resonate today’s time.