NEW DELHI: The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, recently took to microblogging site X to share his burgeoning interest in Hindi cinema. Acknowledging the cinematic masterpieces he has already savoured, including the iconic ‘Sholay,’ ‘Gangs of Wasseypur,’ and the evergreen ‘Chupke Chupke,’ Ellis sought suggestions from the vibrant world of social media for his next Bollywood adventure.
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On Wednesday, Ellis engaged with his followers, tweeting, “Hindi film fans, after highs & lows of Sholay, Gangs of Wasseypur & Chupke, Chupke, what should I watch next? What is an ESSENTIAL Hindi film to see?” While confessing his refusal to quote ‘Lagaan,’ he added, “And, yes, I’ve seen Lagaan. And no, I’m not going to quote it… PS recently watched & liked Jaane Jaan.”
The post garnered an impressive 73,000 views, accompanied by close to 400 likes and a flurry of enthusiastic comments. Bollywood enthusiasts flooded the comment section with diverse recommendations, showcasing the rich tapestry of Hindi cinema.
Hindi film fans, after highs & lows of Sholay, Gangs of Wasseypur & Chupke, Chupke, what should I watch next? What is an ESSENTIAL Hindi film to see.
And, yes, I’ve seen Lagaan. And no, I’m not going to quote it….
PS recently watched & liked Jaane Jaan
— Alex Ellis (@AlexWEllis) December 27, 2023
Suggestions poured in, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary gems. One user advised Ellis to delve into the early post-1947 era with “Mother India,” “Awaara,” and “Kaagaz Ke Phool,” while another emphasised experiencing Amitabh Bachchan at his zenith with “Deewaar.”
The recommendations spanned various genres and eras, with titles like “Chak De India,” “Pyaasa (1957),” “Silsila (1981),” “Anand,” “Swades,” and the cult favourite “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro.” The British envoy received an extensive and diverse list that promises a cinematic journey through the soul of Bollywood.
Interacting with his followers, Ellis shared insights into his Bollywood journey, acknowledging that he has already enjoyed hits like “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” and “Rang De Basanti.” This engagement highlighted his genuine curiosity and eagerness to explore the cinematic treasures of India.
Beyond the realm of cinema, Alex Ellis has been winning hearts with his engaging posts on Indian cuisine. A self-proclaimed foodie, he has shared his culinary adventures, from relishing a plate of crispy dosa in Bengaluru to indulging in Bombay sandwiches and chilli ice cream in Mumbai.