Lage Raho.. made me realise cinema's huge social impact: Hirani

New Delhi, Feb 7 (UNI) He has given Indians 'food for thought' by making them realise the continuing relevance of Gandhian principles in the modern age of globalisation.

However, for Rajkumar Hirani, whose directorial venture 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' brought the Gandhian philosophy from the dusty shelves of libraries back into the Indian mainstream, the huge impact that the film has generated among all cross sections of Indian society and even abroad, was a revelation.

''I earlier thought cinema could not create social change.

But after seeing the huge impact that the film has had on Indian society, I have realised I was wrong,''Hirani said during a function here last night where he recieved the 'CNN-IBN Indian of the Year' award in the filed of entertainment.

''There was a belief that Gandhian ideology did not work.

But in many parts of India, there has been a revival of Gandhian philosophy after the film's release,''Hirani said.

At the same time, Hirani refused to take any credit for bringing a "mini-social revolution' in the country with his film.

''I am still wondering why I got this award. I have only made a film which I believed in,'' Mr Hirani said in all humility.

Hirani recieved the award at an event where eminent Indian personalities like industrialist Ratan Tata and Lakshmi Mittal, Golfer Jeev Milkha Singh, NRI Indra Nooyi and activist Arvind Kejriwal were selected as 'CNN-IBN Indians of the Year' for their monumental contributions in their respective fields.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was selected the 'CNN-IBN Indian of the Year among the winner in the six categories.

UNI