We need more short films to promote young talent: Anupam Kher

By Alkesh Sharma, Chandigarh, Jan 7 : Veteran actor Anupam Kher feels that more short films and documentaries should be made as multiplexes provide space for such movies and such endeavours will provide opportunities for struggling young artistes in the country.

"Usually after passing out of an acting school, one has to do a lot of hard work and has to be patient while waiting for the right break. But after some time it leads to frustration and disappointment; as a result many young artistes abandon the idea of becoming an actor," Anupam, who was recently seen in the critically acclaimed "A Wednesday", told IANS.

Anupam was here Tuesday to award certificates to students at a convocation ceremony of of his acting school, Actor Prepares.

Anupam jointly runs the institute with Society for Tourism and Entertainment Promotion (STEPS) in Chandigarh.

"Their fight for survival starts once they pass out from the acting schools because there are very few opportunities for them in this region. Therefore, I strongly advocate the need to make low budget short films or documentaries so that these students can find some work easily," said Anupam.

"Moreover, multiplexes are coming up everywhere in the country and the filmmakers can easily find buyers and spectators for their movies. This will also promote self employment and entrepreneurship among students.

"In the last few years, we have seen a new trend among viewers who expect new and innovative ideas in Hindi cinema. Several experiments have proved to be successful," said Anupam.

He also said that Chandigarh could easily become the favourite destination among producers for shooting.

"Many filmmakers have already shown interest here and shot at various locales in and around the city," said Anupam.

Talking about the talent available in the city, he said: "The people in this region of Punjab and Haryana possess good looks and physique and they have also shown talent in acting. The only thing they require is the right platform.

"Chandigarh administration has supported me to run my institute here. I am overwhelmed by their response and I am ready to provide any kind of help to the administration here to promote young talent," said Anupam.

Commenting on Chandigarh administration's Film City project, he said: "This project will act as a positive catalyst for development not only in the city, but even in the neighbouring states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. This will generate employment and put this city on international map."

Anupam is right now working on three-four new projects of his own and is looking for fresh talent. He produced "Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara" and is now making "Tere Sang", a film about teen pregnancy. It is being directed by Satish Kaushik.

--IANS