Acclaimed director Subhash Ghai has branched out into Marathi cinema with Malpix, the newly formed division of Mukta Arts, presenting its first film "Kaande Pohe".

Speaking at a press meet, Ghai said: "There are three people who are responsible for the success that I enjoy today and they were all Marathi. Lakshmi Kantji, whom I call my mentor, helped me a lot.

I grew up in Nagpur and shaped my career in Mumbai. So I have a special attachment with this state. Albeit, at times, I feel ashamed that I am still not well versed in the Marathi language (laughs)."

Shreyas Talpade of "Iqbal" fame has produced "Kaande Pohe". "I have seen his work in "Iqbal". He is an amazing actor from a Marathi theater background. So I could not have got anyone better than him to take up the responsibility of producing the film."

Ghai pointed out that as many as 100 Marathi films are made every year, just 25 films short of the number Bollywood produces. The ratio proves that there is no dearth of talent in Marathi cinema, with "Shwaas" even getting nominated for the Oscars.

"All it requires is support and I thought it's my responsibility to lend whatever support I can to Marathi cinema," Ghai averred.

A director par excellence, a producer and a writer, Ghai has been one of the best entertainers in the Hindi film industry with hits like "KhalNayak", "Pardes", "Taal" and "Ram Lakhan". He also produced "Iqbal" and "Kisna: The Warrior Poet", the latter also being written by him.

So, it seems like the Marathi audience will soon be treated to some big entertainers from Ghai's stable. -Jayant Mishra