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Bollywood Legend

Raj&Pablo|13:53 UK time, Thursday, 6 November 2008

It saddened us to learn that B R Chopra, one of the stalwarts of the Indian Film Industry, passed away this week aged 94. For us he was responsible for some of the most groundbreaking films in India. His first movie "Ek Hi Raasta" is one of our favourites and sees Meena Kumari at her emotional best. We had the privilege of speaking to his son, Ravi Chopra earlier this year before the release of 'Bhoothnath' and he was pleasantly surprised that films such as 'Gumrah', 'Naya Daur, 'Insaaf Ka Tarazu' and 'Nikaah' are still seen as milestones. Listen to our tribute this weekend.

Raj: One of the earliest movies that left a mark on me was Zeenat Aman playing an avenging brchopra.jpgrape victim in 'Insaaf Ka Tarazu - it was moving, and entertaining. I'm glad that Ravi Chopra is continuing the tradition of films that infuse Indian values with realism together with entertainment - I loved 'Baghban' and 'Babul'. The Chopras - BR and his brother Yash -have been instrumental in shaping the development of Bollywood.

Pablo: 'Bagbhan' which was written by B R Chopra moved me to tears - amazing performances by Amitabh and a radiant looking Hema Malini. It was great to see her back on the silver screen. It touched a chord with all generations and in some ways changed the outlook of a lot people in the way they relate to their parents. I'm also a great fan of 'Nikaah' - Salma Agha gave a moving performance and her voice reminded me of Noor Jahan. It will be interesting to see if Ravi Chopra signs her daughter as he mentioned on Love Bollywood a few months ago.

Two movie releases this week - Bollywood's look at the credit crunch - 'EMI' and Rajshri's semi sequel 'Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi' - wonder if we will all get married credit crunch style after watching these!

Love Us, Love Bollywood

Raj&Pablo xx

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