Daring to be different: Mahesh Bhatt

If there is one man who can be expected to provide the most candid, uncensored views on any subject, it surely has to be Mahesh Bhatt. Aziz Haider spoke exclusively to this famous director-turned-producer, and found him more candid, more fearless and more philosophical than ever.

Even before you begin the conversation, he ‘demystifies’ his profession by comparing it as similar to that of a clown, snake-charmer and prostitute. “Because we are all in the business of entertainment,” says he.
It is such blatant views on the affairs governing our society that has endeared Mahesh Bhatt to many, while at the same time making few his most ardent critics.
“I do not have false views which people hold on to, for their entire life. They are living in a fool’s paradise.”
“I discovered during my childhood how harsh this life could be. The values that are taught in school do not operate in real life. When I say it openly, they call me a shocker.”
Truth is that he minces no words to push forth his view. Not used to such candid, or you may say blatant views on the harsh realities of life, a section of society see him as a shocker. Shocker he definitely is in that aspect but as this correspondent found out after spending several hours with him, his views are based on his own experiences, good or bad. In contrast to most of us who prefer to remain silent on issues and affairs surrounding us, Mahesh Bhatt at least says what’s in his mind.
Otherwise known for making masala films with sex and glamour, Bhatt’s new venture is different because in the midst of all the entertainment, he ahs also incorporated a serious message on HIV/AIDS.
“People stay away from message-oriented films. So in Actress, we will give them oomph, glamour and stardust with a glimpse of the dark reality behind it all,” says Bhatt.
After last year’s Phir Milenge, Actress will be the second film dealing with the issue of HIV/AIDS. The screenplay is ready and the film is expected to release at the end of the year.
Even in his another film, Nazar, Bhatt has given a one-minute clip on HIV/AIDS right after the board of censorship certification. This is part of the film and appears after the censor certificate so that exhibitors can’t take it out even if they want to.
Critics of Bhatt, however, say that he does all this for remaining in limelight and selling his films. Organizations like UNICEF and NACO have joined hands with the government to form a communication consortium with the film and entertainment industry to incorporate the message of HIV/AIDS in popular media and Bhatt’s rediscovery of message-oriented films is an off-shoot of that.
After all, he still continues to favour depiction of smoking on screen and his films have always been pioneers in exploring new horizons for depiction of sex and glamour.
But such is Mahesh Bhatt! A shocker! Or a different man!