Shyam Benegal to Direct Historic Epic on Gautama Buddha

Shyam Benegal to Direct Historic Epic on Gautama Buddha
Tuesday, August 28, 2007 13:20 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
On August 27, 2007 a historic announcement was made at a Press conference at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, by Light of Asia Foundation Chairman Mr. Navin Gooneratne and Beyond Dreams Entertainment Limited's CEO Yash Patnaik, the producers of a historic film to be directed by esteemed filmmaker Shyam Benegal.

'This is a historic moment for South Asian Cinema. We are about to tell the story of a man who was born in Indian Subcontinent and redefined the way the world thinks- Gautama Buddha. The impact of his philosophy can be measured by the fact that hundreds of millions of people across the globe have embraced it and made it a way of life.

Buddha's philosophy is more contemporary today than ever before" pronounced Beyond Dreams Entertainment Limited's CEO Yash Patnaik while announcing a historic epic on The Buddha to be directed by Dada Saheb Phalke Award winner Mr Shyam Benegal.

After working on the project for almost eight months Beyond Dreams Entertainment Limited, Mumbai and Light of Asia Foundation of Colombo have build a multi-million massive film project.

Noted screenplay writer Atul Tiwari has been roped in to write the story, screenplay and dialogue of this epic. Tiwari has written many landmark movies like 'Bose, the Forgotten Hero,' 'Mission Kashmir' etc.

Professor Nimal D'Silva, leading Buddhist scholar in the South Asia region has been appointed to head the research along with scholars from China, Japan and Korea.

An Indian delegation headed by Patnaik has already done a location study along with Mr. Benegal and Tiwari. During the trip Benegal and Patnaik visited the President of Sri Lanka His Excellency Mahinda Rajapakshe who gave his full hearted support for the project.

"The message of the film Buddha gives answers both to the global crisis of conflict and environment," says Goonaratne, while describing his biggest dream of making a film on Buddha, a dream he has been nurturing for the past 20 years.

Chandran Rutnam, reputed international film maker who has been associated with some of the biggest ever movies made in Hollywood in the past four decades from 'Indiana Jones' to Bo Derek's 'Tarzen' to 'Bloodsport series' is ecstatic about the project. "I have worked with many Hollywood greats from Copala to Spielberg.. but this project is the closest to my heart."

He further adds, "A film on the philosophy of the Lord Buddha's teachings which in this time of need, in this hour of turmoil could be an excellent vehicle using the medium of cinema to spread the Buddhist philosophy throughout the World."

Hollywood has always endeavored to reach to the masses throughout the World, and this is an opportunity to bring an important subject to the World"

Gooneratne has already acquired over 1000 acres of land near Colombo where a massive set will be build to recreate the era for the filming of the epic.

The film is expected to go on floor around mid-2008 and slated for a mid-2009 release.
Varun Dhawan Unveils First Poster of 'Nain Matakka' Featuring Keerthy Suresh!

Varun Dhawan's upcoming film Baby John is already creating waves in the entertainment world. The latest buzz surrounds the highly anticipated track "Nain Matakka," and the excitement reached new heights when Varun shared the

Friday, November 22, 2024
'Agni' Trailer Unveiled: A Tribute to Firefighters' Bravery and Sacrifice!

The much-anticipated trailer for Agni, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, was released on Thursday, offering a gripping look into the world of firefighters, their bravery, and the sacrifices they make to protect

Friday, November 22, 2024
Sara Ali Khan Shares Fun BTS Moments from Ad Shoot, Invites Fans to Let Their Spirits Soar!

Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delightful behind-the-scenes (BTS) glimpse from her latest advertisement shoot, revealing her cheerful mood and creative spirit. In a playful and heartwarming post, Sara shared a video

Friday, November 22, 2024
Kartik Aaryan Enjoys Quality Time with 'Sea, Sand, and Sun' at IFFI Goa!

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, who is currently in Goa for the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and Filmazaar, took a moment to unwind and connect with nature. The actor shared a series of serene pictures on his Instagram, showcasing

Friday, November 22, 2024
Shehnaaz Gill Starts Shooting for Punjabi Film: A New Journey Begins!

Actress and social media sensation Shehnaaz Gill is all set to embark on a new chapter in her career, as she commences shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film. The actress shared her excitement with her fans on Instagram, marking this milestone

Friday, November 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT