I often wondered how it would be if this Epic was made in the current era and how would things be, who would act, who would direct, who would choreograph a dance number or two in the Original which does not have any. These thoughts were on my mind for the last few years every time I recollected about this Movie which was made with the Legends. Now Zee Classic has given this opportunity to me and many others to witness this Film which won all the academy awards it was nominated for except the Best Original score, Best Sound and best make-up taking the tally to a whopping 8 Academy awards. It was also one of the highest revenue grossing movies of its time.
With its proposition of ‘Woh Zamaana Kare Deewana’, Zee Classic is India’s only Hindi movie channel that endeavors to recreate the magic of iconic classics and new age cinema by showcasing not just the films that shaped Indian cinema but also acquaint viewers with the creative talent who were a part of that timeless era. In order to mark the occasion of India’s 70th year of independence, Zee Classic premieres
One of the most iconic films of all times, Gandhi (1982) was produced and directed by Richard Attenborough and written by John Briley. Starring Ben Kingsley, Rohini Hattangadi, Edward Fox, Roshan Seth, amongst others. The story is that of an Indian lawyer who returned from racially segregated South Africa to drive the British out of his home country through successive acts of non-violent protest. The portrayal of how simplicity and the power collectivism can throw over a whole British empire bringing them to their knees.
As Zee Classic gears up to premiere ‘Gandhi’, this Saturday, on 13th August at 8 PM in ‘India’s Finest Films’ and on Monday, 15th August at 9:30 AM, we wonder who would be a part of this classic if it was to be re-made in 2016!
Director
1982 : Sir Richard Attenborough had the ability and talent to accommodate a person’s entire lifespan in a couple of hours. He did a phenomenal job right from the research to bringing alive the legacy of the father of our nation on big screen.
2016: Ashutosh Gowarikar known for his love for historical films and bringing lost eras to life with Lagaan, Jodha Akbar and Swadesh, is undoubtedly our choice to direct this film today.
Mahatma Gandhi
1982: Ben Kingsley played the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the movie.
2016: Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan is the man for the job. Known for his chameleon skills to adapt to various roles and characters combined with his attention to detail, Aamir Khan should play the role of our beloved Baapu.
Kasturba Gandhi
1982: Rohini Hoattangadi, beautifully portrayed Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.
2016: Kajol, one of India’s most acclaimed actresses can easily pull off the role of Baa.
General Dyer
1982: Edward Fox is etched in our minds as the dreadful and shrewd General Dyer who was hated by all for his infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
2016: Tom Alter with his international looks and versatile talent can be General Dyer in ‘Gandhi’.
Jawahar Lal Nehru
1982: Roshan Seth played the role of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to perfection.
2016: The Nawab of Bollywood, Saif Ali Khan wins hands down with his charming royal looks.
Sardar Patel
1982: Saeed Jaffery pulled off the role of The Iron Man of India, Sardar Patel flawlessly.
2016: Paresh Rawal’s known for his diverse character roles makes him our choice to play the part.
Mohammad Ali Jinnah
1982: Alyque Padamsee brought to life an important historic figure, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, popularly known as the father of Pakistan in history
2016: Irrfan Khan, a global Indian will surely cut ice in this role.
Lord Mountbatten
1982: Peter Harlowe played the part with the sternness of a bureaucrat and an attitude on his face.
2016: The suave, Rajat Kapoor has our vote to play the last viceroy of the British Indian Empire.
Whether it was 1982 or 2016, the story of the man who brought India independence needs to be told and needs to be heard!
Tune-in to Zee Classic to watch Richard Attenborough directed ‘Gandhi’ on this Saturday, 13th August at 8 PM and Monday, 15th August at 9:30 AM
Very different, would love to watch it with cast of 2016.
Anyways, as you have stated the story of man who brought India independence needs to be told and needs to be heard! – well said.
Thanks Swati.. 🙂