Vidhu Vinod Chopra recalled his father’s reaction when he told him that he wants to become a filmmaker. The director-producer, who has been the man behind acclaimed films such as Khamosh, Parinda, 1942: A Love Story and Mission Kashmir, revealed at the recently concluded IFP Festival that his father slapped him when he said he wanted to make films. Chopra shared that he had to work his way to FTII, where he learnt the craft.
“When I told my father in Kashmir, ‘Paaji, I want to make a film,’ he slapped me and said, ‘Bhooka mar jaayega Bombay mein. Kaise rahega? (You will die of starvation, how will you survive?)’. He couldn’t afford to send me anywhere so I thought about it, I struggled, I topped Kashmir University in Economics Honours, I am First Class First, so I could get Rs 250 as national scholarship from Government of India, which I got,” Vidhu Vinod Chopra said.
“With that Rs 250 a month, I went to film school. Funny joke is, in 1979, when I was nominated for an Oscar, I told my father, ‘Paaji, meri picture nominate ho gayi hai. (My film has been nominated).’ He said, ‘Bahut acha ho gaya beta, kitne paise milenge? (That’s great news, how much money will you get?),” the director added.
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Vidhu Vinod Chopra made headlines last year when he released 12th Fail. The Vikrant Massey starrer left audiences and critics alike impressed with its inspiring storyline and stellar performances. The film became a major box office success, earning praise not just from fans but also from fellow celebrities. Vikrant Massey’s powerful portrayal garnered widespread acclaim as well, with the actor winning several awards this year.
Adapted from Anurag Pathak’s book and starring Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar, 12th Fail narrates the life story of Manoj Kumar Sharma. Overcoming severe poverty, Sharma went on to achieve the rank of Indian Police Service officer. The film sheds light on his journey, highlighting the pivotal role played by his wife, IRS officer Shraddha Joshi, in his success.
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