A unique gift on Gulzar’s birthday from Bengal
Noted elocutionist Raja Das, filmmakers like Ranjay Roy Chowdhury, Pritha Chakraborty, composer Ashu Chakraborty have teamed up to a birthday special project of Gulzar. It is as a tribute to the living legend on his birthday from Bengal. Gulzar has very close connections with the city. Now a few of his Shayari have been translated in Bengali recited by Raja himself. A visual presentation made by Ranjay, Pritha, music set by Ashu will be released on 18 August on Gulzar’s birthday on the digital platform. It’s a team effort by the legend’s fans. Gulzar’s writings, such as ‘Main Kuch Kuch Bhulta Zata Hoon, Mujhko Bhi Ek Tarkib Shikha Do’ or ‘Yaad Hai, Roz Mere Mez Pe Baithe Baithe’ – they have tried to highlight a number of such Shayari in Bengali.
Raja says, “I have a relationship with Gulzar. Not just me, everyone. With his writing we learn to recognize every moment! And that’s why I caught him even though I didn’t know him personally. As much as I have seen him since childhood, I have been fascinated, and in the same way I have started coming closer to him, whether it is called Gulzar or Gulzar’s instruction. When I grew up, I started reciting poetry, I really wanted to read Gulzar’s writings if I could! My friend Pijus, who lives in Delhi, translated some of Gulzar’s writings. I really want to say those things.” Raja informs how it took place.He says,
” Pijus, a prominent poet and Ashu, one of the music directors of this time, we discussed the whole plan, if anything could be done! Everyone is a fan of Gulzar. The atmosphere is created. Ranjay RC is a great director and photographer. He started working. The scene is built. Pritha Chakraborty is one of the directors and editors. She completed the editing. All in all, something was created. If we can convey this effort to everyone on Gulzar’s birthday, we will be happy.”
Raja adds,”Gulzar is a star to me, who will shine in the minds of all of us even in the midst of intense darkness.”