Ten Classics (English)

Book excerpt: Ten Classics is an in-depth look into the intricacies that went into making of ten legendary Hindi movies−milestones in the history of Indian cinema. Surprising and intriguing facts, the filmmakers’ inspiration behind making them, the conceptualization and actual filming, dotted with anecdotes, incidents, events and trivia surrounding the process of making each of the films, are narrated as recalled by the actual people involved, or someone closely associated with these films. Painstakingly researched and fascinating to read, the book sheds light on factors that make these ten films the classics that they are today. A film journalist for over 23 years, Authors familiarity with the craft of filmmaking adds depth and colour to the perspective. Interesting facts like: Why Mughal-e-Azam took 16 long years to be completed and who the mystery financier was, who invested his trust and money in it, even though the delay had sent its budget skyrocketing; how Amitabh Bachchan bagged the role of Dr Bhaskar Banerjee in Anand, even though Zanjeer, which established him as an actor to reckon with, was yet to release...and many more curious questions like these are answered here. The author has selected one groundbreaking film made by each of the ten legendary directors that she had chosen to showcase. • Do Bigha Zamin • Mother India • Pyaasa • Do Aankhen Barah Haath • Mughal-e-Azam • Guide • Teesri Kasam • Pakeezah • Anand • Umrao Jaan