Anil Sharma, known for patriotic hits like Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and its sequel Gadar 2.
NEW DELHI: Acclaimed filmmaker Anil Sharma, known for patriotic hits like Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and its sequel Gadar 2, shared insights into his creative journey during an interview with Rohan Dua, Executive Editor of The New Indian. Sharma discussed his artistic vision, patriotism, and how personal emotions influence his storytelling.
Sharma revealed how cricket legend Javed Miandad symbolized Indo-Pak tensions during his youth, fueling a mix of admiration and frustration. Recalling a controversial comment he made as a young filmmaker, Sharma explained, “Miandad was a symbol of a larger conflict, not an individual target. My exaggerated reaction reflected the collective sentiments of that era.”
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He emphasized that such emotions inspire his cinematic narratives, portraying characters who rise above vendettas to embrace unity. Highlighting a dramatic scene in Gadar 2, Sharma said, “Tara Singh’s uprooting of the hand pump represents raw emotion and standing up for beliefs. It’s not just aggression; it’s about love for one’s homeland.”
Sharma described patriotism as rooted in familial values and humanity. “Patriotism is not about hating others; it’s about love for your family and country,” he noted. This philosophy is evident in Gadar, where Tara Singh’s love for his family transcends borders and religious divides.
He also discussed Sunny Deol’s iconic dialogue from Gadar 2: “Ghazwa-e-Hind nahi, yeh Jazba-e-Hind hai” (This is not a holy war against Hindustan; it’s the spirit of Hindustan). “It reflects resilience and unity,” Sharma said, adding that his films strive to break myths and foster understanding, promoting constructive emotions over hatred.
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As Sharma gears up for his next project Vanvaas, starring his son Utkarsh Sharma and Nana Patekar, he remains committed to themes of love, family, and patriotism. “Cinema is my life and death,” he concluded. “It allows me to channel my deepest emotions and share them with the world.”
Sharma’s journey exemplifies how personal experiences and nationalistic fervor can shape compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.