Article Updated 25 September, 2007 09:44:46 PM IST   Sridhar Rangayan's 68 Pages screens at British Council, Mumbai By Our Correspondent ©2007 Bollyvista.com   Director Sridhar Rangayan who has not only raised controversies but also pertinent social issues with his earlier films 'Gulabi Aaina' and 'Yours Emotionally!' returns with a film that is poignant and heartwarming. This time, about a HIV/AIDS counselor and her five counselees. Though it deals with issues like stigma and discrimination, Rangayan goes mainstream with a bang - combining a strong storyline, high-powered drama and some bankable talent. Well-known actors Moulli Ganguly, Joy Sengupta, Jayati Bhatia, Zafar Karachiwala, etc lend powerhouse performances to roles that are hardly ever dealt with in Indian cinema. A song 'Chal mere sang', written by Saagar Gupta, composed by xen@bob and sung by Band of Boys alongwith television actress Narayani Shastri give the film a melodious note. Produced by The Humsafar Trust, an NGO working with MSM and transgender communities for over a decade, the film is also meant to be used as an advocacy tool by the NGO. Vivek Anand, CEO says - "It is important for everyone to understand that HIV is an epidemic that needs to be dealt with on priority, especially in case of the sexual communities like gays and transgendered people. India needs to open its eyes to reality" The film which will have its first public screening at the British Council on Oct 3 is already receiving some amazing response at the previews. 'Sensitive', 'Moving portrayals', 'Excellent performances' and '"Your film is a slap on the face of society.". The projectionist at one of the preview theaters said, "I screen hundreds of films in this here but hardly watch them. Today, I just started watching and saw the entire film and had tears in my eyes." One of the viewers even mentioned he is now inspired to become a counselor, like Mansi (Moulli Ganguly). The executive producer Vivek Anand and director Sridhar Rangayan has vowed to get it a commercial release. Rangayan says with determination, "By December 1, the World AIDS day, I want it in the theaters".   close   Print this Article http://www.bollyvista.com   http://www.bollyvista.com/article/a/32/8124