Aarakshan: Deepika & Amitabh's First Film Together
Aarakshan is the story of Prabhakar Anand (Amitabh Bachchan), the legendary idealistic principal of a college that he has single-handedly turned into the state’s best. It is the story of his loyal disciple, Deepak Kumar (Saif Ali Khan) who will do anything for his Sir. Of Deepak’s love for Prabhakar’s daughter, Poorbi (Deepika Padukone), of his friendship with Sushant (Prateik). It is the story of their love, their lively friendship, their zest for life, and of their dreams for the future. Centered on one of the most controversial issues of recent years, with the Supreme Court’s order on reservation, the story suddenly becomes a rollercoaster ride of high drama, conflict, and rebellion, which tests their love and friendship for one another, and their loyalty to Prabhakar Anand.
Interview with Deepika Padukone
Can you tell us about the film and the character you play?
The film is based on one if the most controversial policies of caste-ism and reservation system in government and the education system in India. Amitabh Bachchan plays the legendary and idealistic college principal and he has single-handedly turned his college into the state’s best. I play the role of Amitabh Bachchan’s daughter, Poorbi Anand, who is also Saif Ali Khan’s love interest in the film. Poorbi’s personality and persona are shaped by the relationships in her life – her daughter, a girlfriend, a friend and a student. In essence, the film is about the impact that the issue of reservation has on a multitude of relationships and how this tests each of them.
What was it like working with Mr Bachchan for the first time?
I have always been in absolute awe of him so to work with him first hand is a memory I will cherish for my entire life. It was incredibly nerve racking at first, but he is a very humble and kind human being and I got to learn so much from him. He is a true legend for me.
What about working with Saif Ali Khan for the second time?
It is always a pleasure working with Saif. We have a great familiarity and a great comfort level when we are working which always help when you are starting new projects and especially on something as intense as this.
What attracted you to the film?
Everything really, from the subject matter of the film, my role and of course the opportunity to work with such a formidable cast and crew. When choosing a film, I always have to feel a connection with it, something I would like to be part of and Aarakshan had all of this for me and more. Who will the film appeal to? The film is in essence a drama which will appeal to the masses – you have the romance, youthfulness, intense (family) drama, entertainment and so forth. From an India perspective, every student and family member would be able to empathize with the characters and connect to the film either they or someone they know have experienced discrimination. Having said that, I think there is a huge global appeal, especially in the Western part of the world, whether UK/USA as the common man wherever they may be has been exposed to the issue of reservation and discrimination.
Release Date: August 12, 2011
Director: Prakash Jha
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee, and Prateik Babbar
Music Directors: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
Official Site: http://www.aarakshanthefilm.com