Now history is repeating itself as the title of his latest film Abba Ka Kuan too has gone for a change. The film would henceforth be called Well Done Abba.
"It is much more audience friendly title, isn't it", says a prominent crew member, "Not many would have been able to comprehend what Abba Ka Kuan stood for.
In fact it also gave an impression to some that it is a movie made for children when the fact is that it is for all age groups. However, Well Done Abba instantly gives an impression of this being a light film with a heart warming feel to it."
What cannot be denied also is the fact that by bringing in an English title, the film finds itself in vogue, something that Abba Ka Kuan may not have necessarily succeeded in.
Though the film is rooted in simplicity with the right values attached, something which is expected out of a Shyam Benegal film, a title like Well Done Abba should get the film far more visibility for it's target multiplex audience.
This certainly is the right move for a film, the shooting of which has recently been completed at Ramoji Filmcity and Ibrahimpattnam Village, Hyderabad. The film has also been shot in parts at Whistling Woods, Film City, Mumbai and the Mumbai - Pune Expressway.
Produced by BIG Pictures in collaboration with Shyam Benegal, the film has an interesting mix of cast which includes Boman Irani in a double role along with Minissha Lamba and Sammir Dattani in pivotal roles.
The film is inspired by two short stories: 'Narsaiyyan Ki Bavdi' by Jeelani Bano and 'Phulwa Ka Pul' by Sanjeev and a film treatment by Jayant Kriplani.
With music by Shantanu Moitra and lyrics penned by Ashok Mishra, Swanand Kirkire and Ila Arun, the film stars some of Benegal's favourites like Ravi Kishen, Ila Arun, Salim Ghouse, Rajit Kapur, Yashpal Sharma and Ravi Jhankal. Other than these actors, the film also features Sonali Kulkarni and Deepika Amin in important roles.