23 January 2011

Catching up....


On the eve of Bal Thackeray's birthday today, his daughter-in-law appeared on a popular marathi talk show (Khupte tithe Gupte). Not sure if it was planned or sheer coincidence. Off late this show is gaining ground with the marathi viewers as it showcases some scintillating conversations with  Maharashtrian celebrities from the world of cinema, sports or politics. It is in the league of 'Koffee with Karan' and the host - Avadoot Gupte, is comparable with Karan Johar! However, whether its because of the host, or the guests, the regional show has more straight talk and less controversies :)

Yesterday's episode was insightful as well as touching. The other guest, alongwith Smita Thackeray, was the popular lady director and actor of marathi cinema, theatre & TV- Smita Talwalkar. Both ladies came across as strong and dignified. Both had fought their own battles in life and emerged victorious. The senior Smita T beat ovarian cancer and lives to tell the tale. Her stoicism is truly inspiring- she actually talked about her diagnosis, biopsy and treatment with great humor. Picked up some less-known tidbits about the formidable Bal Thackeray - that he used to be a cartoonist, has a great sense of humor and keeps everyone at home in splits!

The show has some sensational impromptu performances by guests. Yesterday Ms. Talwalkar's heart-wrenching performance had me crying toward the end. Avadoot Gupte too is a multi-talented persona - be it music direction, film direction, writing scripts and now a talk show host; he has his fingers in every pie. Inspite of being a maharashtrian, I've spent my entire childhood in Gujarat. This show. and especially yesterday's episode, reminds me of the rich heritage of literature, theatre and music that we have in Maharashtra. There is a lot I've missed out on while growing up and plan to catch up on in the coming years...

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