Ganesh to direct <i>Swamy</i>

By: Upala KBR, Mid-Day
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Choreographer Ganesh Acharya turns director starting tomorrow. He will wield the baton for his debut film Swamy, starring Manoj Bajpai and Juhi Chawla.

Says Acharya, "The film is about the journey of a man called Swamy (Bajpai) and his wife Radha (Juhi). It's a film with a social message. I have been writing the script for more than four years now. When I thought of directing a film, I was in a dilemma about whether I should make a hard-core entertainer or a film that can make a difference. I chose the latter." Acharya is writing, directing and producing the film.

Message attached

Strangely though, the jhakaas choreographer will not incorporate any songs in his film. "There will only be a title track, that's it. Of course, there will be background music, which is being written by newcomers, Nitin and Soni. I didn't feel the need to incorporate songs and dances. But the film will be presented as a film 'choreographed' by Ganesh Acharya."

A few years ago, Acharya had planned to launch a film directed by him, starring himself. In fact, he had even gone on a weight-losing programme for the same. But he denies it now.

"I don't remember doing anything like that. I've been busy writing Swamy's script for the last few years. It's based on some parts of my life and is about people who love you. There is a message in it for today's youth and their parents."

Will his directorial debut mean the end of his tenure as a choreographer? "Never! Choreography is my life. I have give five super hits this year in Lage raho, Apni toh pathshaala in Rang De Basanti, Golmaal, Beedi jalai le in Omkara and Hera Pheri.

How can I dream of giving up what I love doing? Next on my anvil is two films with Rohit Shetty, Raj Kumar Santoshi's Halla Bol and London Dreams, and Raj Kumar Hirani's next. I will complete Swamy in one schedule in November, after which I will start my choreography again."

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