Oscar Water s on hopes of Rang De Basanti

OSCAR ‘WATER’S HOPES OVER ‘RANG DE BASANTI’
Fingers crossed, putting on lucky attire and chanting prayers are common sights seen among filmmakers and stars all over world before announcement of Academy Award nominations. The lights are on and stress levels are high, till announcements are made. The Indian camp had all the hopes pinned up for their runner, ‘Rang De Basanti’. But, the disappointment was all we were awarded with. But the surprise doesn’t end here, to add to woe Indian film, ‘Water’ earned nomination from Canada.
The film ‘Water’, made by Indian filmmaker Deepa Mehta starring Bollywood stars is produced and marketed by huge banner, ‘Fox’ company. The lobbying and promotions of film by them are extraordinary and cannot match the mere efforts by our country’s production houses. The Indian film industry has suffered a lot nationally and internationally for the petty ignorance and blindness of our countrymen. The film, ‘Water’ which has received accolades from world over and festivals abroad, was originally film from India made here. But, thanks to some politically motivated and religion instigated people stormed in its location and forced the crew to shelve the film. The film had to be shot elsewhere and no production houses were ready to produce and distribute it. The shame was aggravated on knowing that it had defeated Indian entry to Oscars.
The ‘Water’s entry is not on cost of ‘Rang De Basanti’ s exit. But, the lost is due to poor promotion of our films in festivals overseas. It is depressing to see a path breaking film missing an opportunity due to silly ignorance and lack of interpretation power and funds. Let’s hope in future, India won’t be ashamed at cost of Indians.