Rakeysh’s heartfelt tribute to Shammi Kapoor

Zeenews Bureau

Mumbai: The ‘Rang De Basanti’ director Rakesyh Omprakash Mehra will play rich tribute to yesteryears matinee idol – late Shammi Kapoor. Rakesyh will make a documentary on the life and times of Shammi Kapoor. Talking to a daily about Shammi Kapoor, Rakeysh said, “Shammi was a joyous celebration of life; he was the first dancing star of the industry. Before him, our superstars, including the great triumvirate of Raj Kapoor, Dilip Kapoor and Dev Anand, didn’t dance.” Apparently, Shammi represented India’s youthful exuberance and charisma. “From the pessimism of Guru Dutt’s Jinhe naaz hai Hind par woh kahan hain, Shammi took us kicking, screaming, singing and dancing Hum pyar ke toofanon se ghire hain hum kya kare,” he said. “Shammi’s presence was liberating. With him, heroes became boys, and I’m not talking about their age. It was the attitude of exuberance, positivity, wonderment and celebration. From Shammi to Ranbir Kapoor, our heroes continue to be boys to this day,” he revealed. However, Rakesyh’s search ended with Shammi while researching his documentary – ‘Bollywood The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.’ “One evening, I was with Shammi till the wee hours and we talked cinema, both his and mine. I remember he held my hand and told me never to lose sight of my creative vision. I’ve held on to that,” remembered the director. Rakeysh will begin with Shammi’s documentary once he finishes ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.’ “It’s something I need to do for myself more than anyone else,” added Rakeysh.