A Tribute

Born in a family which is known to be country's cinematic pioneer, Shashi Kapoor started acting at a tender age of 2 years and took 20 solid years to make a debut as a leading man in "Dharmaputra" 1961. What followed this was a trail of movies which changed the face of Indian cinema. He not only portrayed the chocolate-boy image but also sketched out characters which only an artist with an eye for perfection could do. He also acted in several British films including Merchant Ivory productions and took cinema places proving to be a true Kapoor dynasty clan. What is awesome about him is his dedication to keep the spirit of stage theatre alive via Prithviraj Theatre. Established in the hub of bollywood, Prithviraj theatre adds another star to the city's glamor. Budding artists learn the fine expression of theatre in a manner quintessential to prithvi-wallahs. His movies reflect the indomitable human spirit to express in forms more than one. One look into his eyes on the screen and you wouldn't want to leave your seat. The magic of dimpled cheeks and attractive eyes could get any female actor a mention on page 3 but for a male actor with a distinct ability to be handsome and classy he didn't require any press publicity. Word-of-mouth tactics worked more in his case. Moreover, when passion gets shared by a group of people, it multiplies to reach as many beating hearts as possible. Here, I'd like to share with you an experience- back in class 7th I attended a summer theatre workshop by the Prithviraj Theatre Group. That was the moment when I realized the existence of one place which instills fear as well as pride in me. And that is the "stage". If I were to get high, that would be the place. If I were to be powerful, that would be place. It is magical.
Today, I take theatre wherever I am. The stage is something that I look upon in awe and try stepping upon when confronted with difficult situations. Coming back, I write this piece in true appreciation of a dynamic personality who has been an impeccable role model for me. And who shall always be remembered !
                         Ek Tha Gul Aur Ek Thi Bul-Bul 
"yaad sadaa rakhanaa ye kahaanee, chaahe jeenaa, chaahe maranaa
tum bhee kisee se pyaar karo to, pyaar gula-o-bulabul saa karanaa"