Multiplexes would have popularised my films: Shyam Benegal

Varanasi, July 30 (UNI) ''Had there been multiplexes and proactive television broadcasting, my films would have sneaked into the lives of commoners, instead of staying confined to a particular societal class,'' is the candid confession of renowned film-maker and Rajya Sabha member Shyam Benegal.

Talking to media persons here today, he said his films have remained confined to a part of society, despite depicting the true picture of the mainstream India.

''Had there been multiplexes and proactive television broadcasting, my films would have become part of commoners, much the same as serials directed by me did,'' he added.

The critically acclaimed film-maker has directed three tele-serials -- Bharat Ek Khoj, Yatra and Sankranti -- first two of which have been a major hit with the small screen audience.

Maintaining multiplexes have revolutionised Indian cinema, Mr Benegal said they provide all shades of cinema -- spanning from masala, reality and foreign films under a single roof.

''Had there been multiplexes in our times, parellel cinema -- a rebellion against the run of mill and fantasy oriented Indian cinema -- would have also hooked to masses.

Mr Benegal also lauded young of film directors including Farhan Akhtar, Nagesh Kuknoor and Vishal Bhardwaj for providing the wiewets with a diverse variety.

''Be it Nagesh's Iqbal or Vishal's Omkara, the young directors do not fear to innovates for providing the audience a diverse variety of films,'' he added.

Denying prospects of him directing TV serials in the near future, Mr Benegal said, ''Serials directed by me were aimed at 'introducing the country to ourselves'. They were financed by the government, but now only money-making ventures were being beemed by TV channels, which were difficult for me to make.'' The has directed over 20 films, three television serials, besides over 50 documentries however Ssequences from his creation ''Bose -- The forgotten hero'' were deleted due to editing requirements and not under any external pressure, he added.

the has shortened to fit the standard time frame and parts of it were not deleted under any kind of pressure,'' he added.

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