Asha Parekh recalls film days at 'Deepsandhya' evening of songs and anecdotes in Nagpur

Veteran actress Asha Parekh's memories of her film career, entertaining anecdotes from old Hindi films and a programme of timeless songs made Thursday evening a memorable one for Nagpur. The Shivaji Maharaj Kruti Samiti organised the cultural event 'Deepsandhya' at Shivaji Nagar Udyan, which featured a special programme titled 'Kuch Yaadein Kuch Nagme'. Parekh's presence added to its importance, and a large number of music lovers turned up.

Noted chef Vishnu Manohar interviewed Parekh. Many memories emerged, from her childhood to her successful journey in the Hindi film industry. On her old ties with Nagpur, she said two of her maternal aunts lived in the city, so she often visited at the age of eight or nine. She has come to Nagpur twice since. Her last visit was for a programme based on Rajesh Khanna's songs.

She also spoke about how difficult film shooting was in the old days. The light from reflectors was very harsh then, which hurt the eyes and forced her to wear goggles. But because of the goggles, people assumed she had been drinking. She told this amusing story too.

She said that as a child she was a 'tomboy', a girl who played with boys and lived like them. She also spoke freely about her experiences with Shammi Kapoor, Malvani-style fish curry and her food preferences.

Regret over today's music

Speaking about the changes in Hindi film music, Parekh said the influence of classical music in today's songs has declined compared with earlier. She expressed regret over this. In her view, old songs had meaning along with sweetness. She also said it is essential that the rich tradition of music reaches the next generation. On the occasion, she singled out Niranjan Bobde, who has contributed to the field of music, for special praise.

Remembering the "queen of melody" Lata Mangeshkar, she spoke of the difficult alaaps in Lata's singing. She said, "Lataji was Saraswati herself. It was not easy to take on her notes." With these words she expressed her respect.

Old songs set the mood

The gathering grew livelier when Parekh's memories were joined by music. The programme was conceived by noted singer Niranjan Bobde. With music arrangement by Niranjan Bobde and Mahendra Dhole, a team of 30 artistes presented popular Hindi film songs.

Makarand Patankar sang 'Shyam Mastani', Manjiri Vaidya 'Raat Ka Sama', Dhanashree Deshpande 'Suno Sajna', Niranjan Bobde 'Teri Aankhon Ke Siva Duniya Mein Rakha Kya Hai' and Gauri Shinde 'O Meri Sona Re Sona Re', all drawing applause from the audience. Duets such as 'Ye Duniya Wale Poochhenge' also added colour to the evening.

Shooting 'Aaja Aaja'

Parekh also recalled the difficulties during the shooting of the popular song 'Aaja Aaja' from the film 'Teesri Manzil'. She had an allergy on the day of the shoot. The shoot was at 2 pm, so she had to finish the work even after taking medicine. She made it clear that even when an artiste is unwell or has a fever, shooting often cannot be halted.

She said that earlier, outdoor shoots did not even have basic facilities such as toilets. One had to work the whole day in very difficult conditions. Today, artistes get facilities such as vanity vans, she said, pointing to the difference between shooting then and now.

One must know Marathi if living in Maharashtra

Parekh appeared moved by the warm welcome from Nagpur residents. She also spoke of her bond with Maharashtra. Saying in Marathi itself that she was born in Maharashtra and so must be able to speak Marathi, she also praised the state's rich literary tradition.

Samiti president Ajay Sancheti, vice-presidents Sangeet Chauhan and Vinay Agrawal, secretary Shrikant Deshpande, joint secretary Ashwin Raut, treasurer Vandana Kulhar and other members played a key role in organising the event. MLAs Abhijit Wanjari and Vilas Kale, Adv. Anand Parchure, Ravindra Kaskhedikar, Sanjay Pendse and many other dignitaries were present.