Interview : Dev Anand

Article Updated 28 September, 2007 09:07:44 PM IST

Interview : Dev Anand

Evergreen Dev Anand's autobiography ROMANCING WITH LIFE was released day before yesterday on his birthday, September 26th in the presence of India's top leaders like Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, whose birthday also falls on the same day. Sonia Gandhi, along with Dev Anand's innumerable upmarket fans and friends amongst politicians and destiny designers, were also present. Anand will be trotting the globe and attending all those functions, where he has been invited to release the most talked about autobiography. Bollyvista had the opportunity to chat with the veteran star and film-maker on the different aspects of his biography and some remarkable happenings in Indian cinema.

So, at last you have succeeded in having your say in ROMANCING WITH LIFE. How do you feel about one of the most important and historic occasions in your long and celebrated career?

Personally, it is a great moment for me. Finally, when I completed the book the world appeared to be much more sparkling, brimming with vigour and new insights. Things have certainly became more exciting. These days, films are being made at a greater speed and with tremendous enthusiasm.

Tell us about your autobiography?

Romancing With Life belongs to the entire country and to the people whom I've met in life. It is a 465 pages book, of which I have written every page. I have not used a computer. There were many things, which had to be deleted because of page limitation. This book will cost Rs.695/- in India.

You must be excited about it!

Very much! It is like releasing your magnum opus and awaiting the response. I am feeling young again.

You continue to experiment with new ideas, drawing your inspiration from everyday occurrences.

Do you expect me to sign up half a dozen top stars, go for a re-make or a trendy sequel? I will make big money on the announcement itself if I do so. I do not want all that. That is why I would rather continue to experiment with new ideas and direct such films that will satisfy my creativity.

Should we expect your ROMANCING WITH LIFE to be controversial like Vyjayanthimala's attempt?

No, I do not think so. I have never believed in controversies. I have not read Vyjayanthimala's book as yet, for want of time. I may read it if I get a chance. At the moment, I am engrossed with meeting the people in connection with the release of my book. Because of my preoccupation with the book, I have kept my recently announced 'Chargesheet' on hold. I also have to go to Croatia to shoot my film in English.

Normally autobiographies create controversies?

That is not me. I never hurt anyone in life. Why should I do that in my book?

You are a "Karam Yogi". You appear to believe in karma and keep working, yes?

If you turn out a good article and are praised for it, you will certainly be inspired to do still better and work harder. Likewise, I have always been inspired by life, which I do my best to view from close quarters. I have never believed in looking back or being occupied with my past. My sights are always rooted in whatever is happening now. One must live in the present. I do not have any regrets with life. I keep myself surrounded with good books. I do read newspapers daily. If this is my karma, then I am certainly a Karam Yogi and I shall continue to do my dharma till the final cut.

Does Suraiya get a space in your book?

Of course, yes. I have said much more about her than you or any other in your profession may be aware of.

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