The All Time Classic Gandhi (1982) On Zee Classic

There was time when I was not addicted to Hollywood movies, like I am now. Today, movie time means Hollywood in my home; at least for me and Rayyan. Occasionally, we do watch some Bollywood movie for a change.

What actually got me hooked to Hollywood? It were few of the classics that gripped my heart so tight, that there was no way out for me. Gandhi, was one of those movies which gave me the taste of real movie making. The amazing portrayals by the actors, the historically relevant scenes that seemed to jump out of my history book, the sets, realistic costumes and many other factors changed my taste for movies forever.

Back then, it was a different time when we scattered on a mat in front of TV, with my Mom, Dad, Brother and Sisters to watch anything that DD would throw at us. Sometimes we were blessed with classic movies either by the DD or through video cassettes.

Those lovely times is never going to come back again, because some of those lovely people are now just a memory I treasure.

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 70^th 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.

Today, it will be just me and my son who will watch movies together since there is a lot of option to choose from for the audience and taste in our family differs. My hubby and daughter do not share my taste, but fortunately, I and Rayyan (my son) have same passion for movies and music.

As Zee Classic gears up to premiere ‘Gandhi', this Saturday, on 13^th August at 8 PM in ‘India’s Finest Films’ and on Monday, 15^th 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!

I feel - when God never tried to remake another Gandhi for the world, neither should movie makers try their hands at the remaking the movie. Some classics cannot be re-created!

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