Subhash Ghai revisits 'Taal', floats idea of sequel with new cast
Mumbai, June 8
Nearly three decades after 'Taal' first won fans over with its music, romance, and outstanding performances, filmmaker Subhash Ghai has hinted that the beloved classic may not be done just yet.
The veteran filmmaker recently sparked excitement online when he took to Instagram to ask fans if they would like to see him produce a sequel to the 1999 musical drama, which starred Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Akshaye Khanna, and Anil Kapoor in crucial roles.
Ghai, in his post, looked back on one of the most memorable moments associated with the film and recalled receiving what he described as the "best compliment" for Taal from renowned Hollywood film critic Roger Ebert.
Sharing his memories, Ghai spoke about how Ebert had praised the film's "pure entertainment" value and its sense of "innocence" when it was screened at Ebertfest in Chicago in 2005.
"The best compliment on #TAAL I got was from #ROGER EBERT, the leading film critic of Hollywood, at Ebertfest Chicago during the screening of my film #TAAL in 2005," he said.
"In his review, he praised the film's 'pure entertainment' and 'innocence,' noting that it captured a joyful, classic Hollywood-style musical spirit that he felt had largely disappeared from American cinema at the time. He was particularly taken by the music, the choreography, and the performances of Aishwarya Rai and the rest of the cast. Felt blessed," Ghai said.
He then surprised fans by floating the idea of a sequel, asking whether audiences would like him to produce Taal 2 with a new cast and a young director at the helm.
"Do you want me to produce TAAL 2 with other young talented directors and a new cast in India?" he asked.
Take a look
Directed by Subhash Ghai, Taal revolved around the love story of Mansi and Manav, played by Aishwarya Rai and Akshaye Khanna, against the backdrop of music, ambition, and class differences. Apart from the lead pair, the film also featured memorable performances from Anil Kapoor, Amrish Puri, and Alok Nath.
A major reason behind the film's enduring popularity remains its soundtrack, composed by Oscar-winning music maestro A. R. Rahman. Songs from the film remain popular even today, with many fans considering the album one of the finest in Hindi cinema.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who discovered Bollywood through films like 'Taal', this brings back such great memories. Roger Ebert's praise was spot-on about the innocence and joy. But a sequel? Indian cinema has evolved so much since 1999 - a modern musical could work with fresh talent if Rahman is still on board. Just please don't make it a commercial mess.
Subhash Ghai sir, why tamper with perfection? 'Taal' was a complete package - music, acting, direction. Please give us fresh stories instead of sequel-ish baat. Also, Roger Ebert appreciating an Indian film like that is a huge deal - we should celebrate that more 🙌
Interesting idea! 'Taal' was indeed ahead of its time. But a sequel needs a strong script and direction - just getting a new cast won't work. Look at how 'Lagaan' and 'Dil Chahta Hai' still feel fresh. Sometimes, the magic of a film is in its era. If they do proceed, they should keep the soul of the original - the music and the emotional core.
Honestly, I'm tired of Bollywood's obsession with sequels and remakes. 'Taal' was great because it was original. If you want to make a new musical, make something fresh with new talent - AR Rahman is still active, give us new 'Dil Se' or 'Vande Mataram' level gems! At least Ghai sahab is considering a young director, that's a good step 👍
Subhash Ghai and AR Rahman together again? Sign
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