Books, films bonded him and Vajpayee: Advani

Mumbai, Dec 21: Books and films were the bonding factors for his friendship with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, senior BJP leader Lal Krishan Advani said.

Releasing the book 'Musical Moments from Hindi Films' here last evening, Mr Advani recalled the days when the two used to go to watch movies together.

''We both had interest in watching films and books,'' he said, adding these two were the common factors for his friendship with Mr Vajpayee.

The former deputy prime minister said besides being a politician, he had interest in films and music too.

Denying the allegation of deteriorating music standards in India, Mr Advani said music was always good.

On the political front, the BJP leader said the party has succeeded in breaking the single party rule in the country and ushering in a bi-polar polity.

The Congress has 145 seats, while the BJP has 138, he pointed out.

The book, written by Manik Premchand, contains 435 popular songs.

It comes with two Compact Discs, containing audio clips of the tracks along with the interviews of celebrated musicians like Khayyam, Mannade and Majrooh Sultan Puri.

Premchand had earlier written a book 'Yesterday's Memories, Today's Melodies'.

Hema Malini, veteran actor and BJP MP, recalled the music given by Khayyam for the movie 'Razia Sultan', in which she had played a lead role. The actress said she was keen to work with Khayyam again.

She also reminisced her first interview during the shoot of her first movie 'Sapno ka Saudagar' by veteran radio announcer Amin Sayani.

Among others, Khayyam and Sayani also graced the occasion. The former raised the issue of copy right for the musicians and urged Mr Advani to look into it.

Pratibha Advani, daughter of Mr Advani, was also present at the function.

UNI