Ashwani Thakur's Blog

If cricket becomes a religion in India

2011-04-03T12:53:00.007+05:30

Yesterday At The Midnight Hour Something Extraordinary Happened Which Rocked The Nation. What India Experienced Yesterday On Streets, Bars, Hotels, Homes, Balconies And Each And Every Place Was Amazing.
There Are So Many Religions In India Which Comprise Of Hundreds Of Festivals. I Have Never Seen Any Festive Celebration Such As Yesterday. People Came Out On The Streets And It Was An Atmosphere Of Unity. Everyone Was Happy, Some Were Dancing, Some Were Shouting, Some Were Cheering Up Hugging Each Other As If We Have Won A War Against An Alien. On The Streets Everyone Belonged To One Religion, Everyone Belonged To One Community And Everyone Was Celebrating One Festival, Cricket. It Was A Moment Of Joy As Christmas, Diwali, Baisakhi And Eid All Celebrated Together.

1983 Was The Year When India Won It's First Ever Cricket World Cup. As I Was Born In The Same Year So I Never Experienced The Celebrations Of Winning A World Cup In A Country Where Cricket Is A Religion. Yesterday, 2nd April 2011 With A Final Six By The Captain Ms Dhoni India Repeated History By Winning The World Cup Again After 28 Years. It Was A Proud Moment For The Cricket Crazy Nation. The Phone Networks Became Jam As Everyone Was Congratulating Each Other Through Sms And Calls. The Streets Were Jammed With Vehicles As People Were Out To Celebrate. And This Was A Situation In Every Part Of The Country.
Cricket Is Just A Reason, But What I Loved About Yesterday's Experience Is That The Nation Comes First.

I Wish If Cricket Becomes A Religion Than There Will Be No More Differences With Each Other. We All Will Live In Unity. But Then We Know The Human Mind. We Will Still Make Our Own Divisions In It Too Like The Bowlers, The Batsmen, The Test Cricketers, The One Dayers, The 2020's And So On. We Humans Are Good In Making Divisions, See How Many Divisions We Have Made Out Of One God.

(c)2011 www.ashwanithakur.com

A short Introduction of Ashwani Thakur Films

2011-03-05T17:48:00.002+05:30

Named in Feb. 2011, Ashwani Thakur Films is not new. It’s the name I have given to my passion since 2006. It was in 2006 that I finally realised or you may say discovered my unconscious attachment towards filmmaking. I was always attracted towards the filmmaking process. In fact since the age of 12 I have been writing songs, poems and even stories. I was doing everything linked with filmmaking but was not an expert in anything. A jack of all trade and master of none made me feel like a filmmaker. It was in 2006 that I started producing films and videos with the name Neti Neti Productions (NNP). NNP is a brand name but Ashwani Thakur Films is more personal.

Team:

Ashwani Thakur Films cannot run single headedly. I have a team of few very passionate, fun loving, hardworking and self-motivated individuals who work with me. Aarti Sharma & Rahul Saini are permanent members and apart from them I have Nihar Koya, Shashank Goyal, Shaurya Singh, Ankit Kaushik to name a few.

Our Mission:

Ashwani Thakur Films has decided to make 1 short film every month. This idea came in my mind last year but I thought it was unrealistic and too difficult. But after becoming a YouTube partner and with an interest of standing out from the crowd I took this decision. Apart from minimum 12 short films every year we will also produce at least 1 feature film every year.

Get in touch:

I have found some of the best artists, technicians and even mentors through internet. Therefore, internet is the best way to communicate with us. We are always approachable through our facebook, orkut and twitter pages.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ashwanithakurfilms

Orkut: http://www.orkut.co.in/Community?cmm=110383995

Twitter: www.twitter.com/ashwani_thakur

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch all films: www.youtube.com/ashwanithakur

Website: www.ashwanithakur.com

My take on Guzaarish

2010-12-03T13:15:00.002+05:30

My take on Guzaarish, the film

Although I watched this film some time ago and didn't feel like sharing my views about it as almost everyone liked it and praised it but I didn't.
Yesterday I was approached by Tehelka Magazine to give my views on few topics for their Master Takes column. So in reply to their questions I had to give my views on Guzaarish as out of the few questions one was as follows:

What is the last film you watched? What did you think of it?

Now obviously Guzaarish was my last watched film and then I had to give my views on it. Well this is my personal view on the topic as a human being, as an audience, as a spiritual person. Not as a filmmaker because as a filmmaker I love Sanjay Leela Bhansali's work and there is too much to learn from him.

My short and to the point (politically correct :) answer for that question was as follows:

I learn a lot watching Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films and this film was special as he was also the music director of this one and his music is as unique as his films. But in my opinion this film is not for everyone. I personally do not believe in the message he portrayed through the film. I believe life is precious and to be alive is the only way we can win. Mercy killing or euthanasia is a difficult topic for a film and it’s not easy to justify it. Therefore my take on the film would be that Mr. Bhansali did his best but I am sure if someone like Raj kumar Hirani or Amir Khan would have made the film, the ending would have been the opposite.

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There were other questions also that I answered but for that its better you read directly in the magazine.

Internet Addiction: side effects of the internet

2010-11-22T00:05:00.002+05:30

Internet Addiction: side effects of the internet
Internet was introduced to public in the late 1980’s.
Millions of people all over the world use this technology and thousands of new users join daily. Life never remains the same for anyone who enters the World Wide Web.
People use it for business, sharing of information, communicating with friends, family and for several other benefits.
It not only attracts newcomers but also keeps the old ones attached because it’s cheap, easy to access, a treasure of information & saves a lot of time. Mainly people use the internet for sharing of information, social networking, online games, and for shopping. With so many benefits, it becomes impossible to live without it. Why would someone stand in a queue to buy a travel or movie ticket when it can be ordered online in seconds? It is a lazy man’s way to stay connected to the world lying on bed in pajamas.
Internet has become a new world altogether. It is slowly becoming a database of each and every person, thing, place, art form or subject. Whether it’s a 10 year old student or a 70 year old retired person; everyone has a reason to be online. One thing which is important to understand is that this is a virtual world and should not be given more importance than the real world.
Side effects of improper usage of Internet:
Addiction to anything is not healthy and leads to harmful side effects. Mainly teens get effected by internet as they become prone to over usage of social networking sites apart from emailing and blogging.
Other addictive activities on internet include:
Online Gaming
Online Gambling
Pornography
Trapped in the web one feels a psychological dependence on it. Slowly it becomes a necessity and it becomes difficult to get out of the virtual world.
Online gaming is a hobby for some but can turn into a violent addiction. Online gamers form networks and associations. Recently online gamers organized a cyber funeral when one girl died suddenly after spending consecutive days on the internet in order to kill a Black dragon in the game.
Pornography is another major harm of the internet as it is a growing online business and attracts users of all age groups with no restrictions to minors.
Unlike other addictions and activities, internet leads to isolation. One socializes with others virtually but loses contact with real life. Internet has made the world a smaller place as we can connect with anyone, anywhere in the world but the isolation leads to ignorance of the person right next to us.
Addiction of internet is as harmful as any other type of addiction like drinking or smoking.
“Internet Addiction Disorder”
Internet addiction disorder or IAD was originally proposed in a satirical hoax by Ivan Goldberg. But now it is recognized as a serious illness by some supporters and few companies even claim to cure this through medication and guidance.
However, many others argue that IAD is neither a true addiction nor a specific disorder and should not be classified as a mental disorder.
According to them:
A pathological gambler is a pathological gambler regardless of whether the gambling is done on a computer or face-to-face.
A person with poor impulse control can lose sleep over a suspenseful novel or favorite television show just as easily as he or she can lose sleep over an exciting computer game or the temptation to click on another web link.
A person with a sexual obsession is still a person with a sexual obsession, whether the pornography is viewed on a screen or on paper.
A person who shops obsessively (including during a manic phase) has an obsessive shopping problem whether the purchases are made in person, by mail, by phone, or online.
Although, even if internet addiction is not a disorder but its definitely becoming the easiest way of supporting other mental disorders.
We did a survey with over 1000 regular internet users of different age groups and professions to know the effect of internet on their personal life and whether they feel addicted to it.
80% of users said that they spend more time online than they actually should (and to be honest I fall in this category). Although only 4% felt that they are addicted to it but more than 50% agreed that it has affected their personal life.
Recently a couple divorced because of the husband’s internet addiction problem.
“Solution”
Inappropriate use of internet leads to harmful side effects. Especially in young users as they are unable to set the limits while using this resource. Although there are some software’s available which can help parents restrict their children’s access to only limited sites and also keep a track of their online activities.
Apart from that it’s very important to fix a time for which one should stay online. It has been observed that a lot of internet users end up doing something which they did not intend when they logged on to it. To avoid this one should make a list of things he or she needs to do online and also set a fix time frame before logging in.
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The importance of real people, real activities, real sports and real environment cannot be ignored. Therefore, one has to be free from the web of the virtual world and spend more time in the real life.

(c)2010 www.ashwanithakur.com

How love and faith are measured

2010-11-20T02:56:00.002+05:30

How love and faith are measured:
Love and faith are two sides of a single coin. Both are dependent on each other and cannot exist singularly. But neither love nor faith can be measured. No one can give a measurement of love. There is no way designed by any human to calculate it.
But there is one way through which love or faith, both can be proved and even calculated. And the way is not manmade but it’s natural. Natural would mean it happens automatically without planning or by any hidden or known human intensions. And the way is testing.
The only way Love or Faith can be measured is through Testing.
The word testing to a human mind is alarming. But even if it sounds ugly or bad testing is the nature’s way of measuring faith.
This hidden way of measuring love happens in the background like background music in a movie. We can hear the music; it affects us and secretly gives life to the visuals. Similarly! While we talk, walk, listen, work, eat, sleep, meet and greet this great faith tester works in the background. This is how we decide who we love and who we don’t. This is how we understand who loves us and who don’t. This is how we understand the faith levels of others and our own personality.
In fact we cannot even measure our own faith level. And to understand it we have to rely on the one and only faith tester. The faith tester tests us, time and time again and hence we measure our faith level.
The faith or love in God or with a human being or even with a non-living thing like country or a cause can only be rewarded by faith tester. I repeat, Faith tester is not man made as the man made testing’s can never give a true picture. In fact human faith testing is a result of fear, insecurity, ego and ignorance. But the real Faith testing that happens in the background is the only way of rewarding a faithful being. This is the reason people for ages have believed that God tests those who are his best believers. Those wise people understood the importance of Faith testing and they even believed that this test should be respected and not ignored or criticized. It is the way nature works.
Through these natural tests we understand how much we love what we love and how much we believe in what we have faith in.
So watch out, life constantly tests you. And especially for the things that you are strong at. So that you can pass the test and prove yourself. The next time you are tested, don’t get depressed but say thanks and try to pass it.

(c)2010 www.ashwanithakur.com

How to become an actor

2010-11-17T03:26:00.002+05:30

So! You want to be an actor?
Great!
Good news for you "You are already an actor"
What?
You think I am joking?
Ok then tell me have you ever made an excuse to anyone?
What kind of excuse?
The kind of excuse you made to your class teacher on being late or to your mother when you came home late or to your father when he scolded you for not reaching up to his expectations.
All our life we have been trying to act in different forms and specially to give excuses like I mentioned above.
So you don't have to be an actor, you are already one.
If you can make someone laugh, you are an actor. Aren’t you acting when you try to make a child laugh or propose a girl?
You like it or not, believe it or not but we are a born actor. We act whenever we are not alone. Some people even act when they are alone but that is an extreme case. But ideally every human being acts in his or her own way. There is nothing bad in it as this is the way we do things, it’s the way we speak, listen, move, converse. In short to act is to do. Acting is not an art; acting is the way we do things. We all act smart, funny and stupid sometimes.
But this article is not to teach you the way human beings act or do things but to tell you how to be an actor. And now, returning back to the original topic of this article “How to become an Actor”. And here I actually mean someone who acts in front of camera or in front of an audience.
This article is for those who are new to the film or theatre industry. Those who have decided that they want to be professional actors but are not sure how to start or where to start.
So what is the easiest way to be an actor in a movie?
Well, if you are a son of a director\producer you can ask him to cast you in his next film.
Or, if your father is a rich businessman you can ask him to use his money\links to help you get a role in a movie.
But I am sure you do not fall in the above two categories. Otherwise why on this planet would you read a blog titled "How to become an actor"? But the good news is that you have a chance like any other person to be an actor and the only thing you need is strong will. Now I don't want to tell success stories here of SRK, Rajnikanth or Arnold Schwarzenegger. You know they did it and proved it’s possible. If you want to read success stories of famous actors you can do a Google search or buy a book. But this article is about you. About how to get you started so that you can write your success story.
What I will tell you here, is how to get started, how to become an actor and the rest depends on your Will, your continued efforts and your luck.
Yes, I mentioned Luck there. But I also believe that Luck favours those who wait for the opportunities. No matter how lucky you are but if you ignore the opportunity, you will lose it.
Ok! Now as promised I will now list the main things you need to start to become an actor:
1. Portfolio - Please get yourself clicked by a professional. Please for your career's sake understand that portfolio means professional photos. I have seen actors sending pictures sitting on their bed, motor cycle and sometimes with their friends (circling their face). So get a professional portfolio. If you don't have money I am sure you have a friend (or friend of friend) who is good in photography and has a camera, ask him to do it for you. Again use Google to search how to make a good portfolio etc. etc. Believe me if you have good Googling skills you can learn a lot.
2. Showreel - Showreel is a group of videos you have acted in. There are hundreds of short filmmakers everywhere wanting to become the next Spielberg. Contact them and act in short films to get your showreel made. Short filmmakers are always in search of free actors who are serious about acting. Just drop them an email, appreciate their films (no matter how pathetic they are) and tell them you would love to act in their next short film and do mention "I will work for free" and I can guarantee you will get a reply. There are few who may pay too, so you never know you may be a lucky one. But remember your aim is to get a free showreel so get it done. Believe me having showreel shows that you are serious about your work and are experienced and you can already call yourself a working actor. Showreel can have short films, ad films, music videos etc.
3. Knowledge - To have knowledge about the career you have chosen is very important. People do years of study to become a professional is any field so you should understand that if you want to be an actor, it’s important that you should have good amount of knowledge about it. Entertainment business is a serious business. Joining an acting school is an option but it is not mandatory. Working in short film will definitely give you a lot of practical experience on how to read the dialogues and face the camera etc. Apart from that watching good film is as important as reading books before exams. Always watch films which involves good actors or films for which actors were awarded.
4. Promote yourself – Visit personally, email or post your portfolio\showreel\CV to Directors, Production Houses, Casting Agencies, websites etc. Start by sending one to my company at netinetiproductions@gmail.com or www.netinetiproductions.com
So! Not much information but this is enough for someone who is planning to start. I will be writing more in future for actors but I just want to say that do not jump to other things but try to follow the above 4 steps and have faith.

All the best, Dear Actor! See you in Theatres...

(C) 2010 www.ashwanithakur.com

Reality Shows: Good, Bad and the Ugly

2010-11-16T01:49:00.006+05:30

Reality Shows: Good, Bad and the Ugly
There are the good ones, the bad ones and the Ugly ones. The one that you love to watch, those you ignore and the others you just cannot tolerate. But if there is a Reality Show out there then there is an audience too.
Now a days, every time you switch on your idiot box, the most common things are the reality shows. Some are searching idols for the nation, some are making crorepatis and some are finding talents in the form of music, dance etc. Then there are those 10 odd people locked in a house entertaining others watching from their house.
Few questions that make news and have different views are:
Are these shows scripted?
Are they helping the participants, viewers or organisers?
Are they a challenge for our society?
Are they hurting the moral sentiments of a percentage of the viewers?
etc...

Recently there was news about a suicide of a person who was insulted in a reality show hosted by Rakhi Sawant. Imagine the kind of effect the 30 minutes show had on that poor man. I personally hate the cheap reality shows like Rakhi ka swamwar and Rakhi ka insaaf. No I have no personal enmity with Rakhi Sawant but for some reason the two reality shows I hate the most are related to her. I believe it’s the viewers who should be held responsible for such shows to be aired. You watch it and therefore they exist.
Another latest one is the marriage of Sara and Ali in the reality show "Big Boss". Some say they were already married and were paid a huge amount to get married in the show. Whatever may be the reason but it’s easy to understand that its for publicity and TRP. People fight, live, compete, laugh, cry, suicide and even marry through reality shows now.
I am a fan of a reality show for years now and that's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. A show that has not only entertained India and the world but also helped thousands of participants. And many of its contestants are professional singers now.
Working hard for TRP is good but working out anything for TRP is not.
For Participants its a Challenge, for viewers its entertainment and for the organisers its a Business. And for writers like me it's a reason to blog.
And now that people are getting bored of the old ones people are trying new ideas. Be it good, bad, ugly, moral, immoral or whatever it should be sellable is what the people behind this business want.
I am not a social activist. I am neither against nor in support of any reality show out there. Why should I want to stop a show that a percentage of people love watching? I don't get time to watch a lot of TV but it's true that millions of people in this country waste millions of hours watching reality shows which are useless. But one thing is sure you may hate them or love them but you just can't ignore them.

(c)2010 www.ashwanithakur.com

Formula Bollywood: Story of a story writer

2010-09-14T20:17:00.004+05:30

This short film is about a Bollywood writer, who is pressured by the producer to complete a film script as soon as possible which should be good enough to make profit.
The writer in search of a great concept and a blockbuster script goes to a Hill Station. Days, weeks and even after a month he couldn't write and finally looses all hopes.

Will he succeed? Or will he fail?
To know the answer watch Formula Bollywood: Story of A Story Writer...

PS: Inspired by real incidences, this is a work of fiction. There is a huge possibility of resemblance to real persons, living or dead.

This is my most interesting project till now as its Written, Directed, Edited, Acted and Shot by the same person.

Update: The film is now available on youtube.

(c)2010 by http://www.ashwanithakur.com/

Horror film about FEAR

2010-07-19T02:20:00.005+05:30

I feel happy and satisfied now. Not in a celebration mood as that would happen when the complete screenplay will be on papers. This happiness is a result of the completion of the 1st raw draft of my Horrifying feature film.
Now what is 1st raw draft - I don't care. But I call it the sketch of the final painting. Just need to add colors in the painting. But I am happy that the most difficult part is over.
Fear! is the one word in which I can describe this film. Of-course, every horror film has fear. Fear is the USP of all horror films. This is not a horror film which has fear, but a horror film which is about fear.
After writing script of a romantic comedy and a thriller, this script will be my debut in the horror genre. In-fact, I am almost sure "horror" will mark my debut as a feature film writer\director.
Its 2:50 am and its getting scary now ;) Its time to close the laptop and have a good night sleep...Cheers!

(c)2010 www.ashwanithakur.com

14th may 2010

2010-05-14T02:45:00.002+05:30

14th May 2010. My parents room. 2:47 am - don't know how to start so wrote the date, time and place where I am right now.
A lot happened in the last few months. I guess the last time I blogged was in Nov. 2009. Blogging is a good way of stress busting and also helps me remember things when I read my own blogs later. The main thing that happened in the last few months was the creation of the OM Tattoo Commercial. It was one of the most interesting and rewarding work till now after the Lead India's music video. Lead India will remain my favorite as it was awarded but the Om Tattoo Commercial is also awarded in a different sense. The client Howard Hurb of NycIndia.com loved it and so did most of the viewers. This film gave me some nice testimonials and feedbacks.
A lot of people have asked me to blog about my experience of making this video. It was very interesting but right now I just blogged to break my fast and start blogging again. I will surely post the experience and other stuffs later. The only reason why I don't blog regularly is my laziness I guess.
Ok now I will say good night and will continue writing the script for my next short film. I am working on few projects now like another film for NycIndia.com's OM Tattoo and few one minute films and a film of about 15 minutes.
I don't know which one I will shoot first but I am scripting all of them. I mean am in the process of writing them. A music video is also in the pipeline so watch out...

(c)2010 www.ashwanithakur.com

Be The Change

2009-11-22T21:35:00.006+05:30

"Be The Change You Want To See In The World" - This quote by Gandhi inspired me to make "Be The Change", a one minute short film.

I am attaching some of the pics taken while shooting.

Apart from the strong message of the film, I am also targetting the PFC One film festival with this film. The film was shot last sunday and am now stuck with the post production. The last day with late fees for the festival is 30th Nov. 2009.

As the Quote explains itself, through this film I want to convey a message that we (that ofcourse includes me) do things for our own benefit, to satisfy our ego or to impress others or to win something. As teachers, filmmakers, elders, professionals & artists we usually preach to benefit but ignore to follow. Ofcourse there are exceptions but most of us still need to understand this quote by The Mahatma "Be the change you want to see in the world".

One more good thing about this film is the addition of a new member in out Team "Saurabh Chakravarty", an old friend who joined in as the Director Of Photography. So now I have 2 saurabh's in the NNP Team. Getting the lighting done in my previous films was a real pain. But this time it was handled beautifully by Saurabh. Apart from him there was the addition of a new actor in the team "Rahul Saini", with his dedication I am sure he can attain what he wants. And ofcourse, Aarti and Saurabh Poddar were involved in this project as always. I made both of them act in this one apart from helping me in writing the screenplay.

This one along with the other two of my last films can be watched online after its premeire in PFC One film festival in Jan. 2010.

Latest Update

2009-09-13T11:10:00.004+05:30

July 24 2009 was the last time I blogged. Am back after about 2 months. In the meanwhile I directed a short film "Soniya" *ing Aarti Sharma & Sanjay Singh. Aarti already acted in my last 2 films ("lets do it" and "The other side"). She is not only an intellegent actor but also has a good understanding of the overall filmmaking process. I am happy that she is now an integral part of of the NNP team.

And Sanjay, well not many people know he acted in my first short film called "Mr. Future". I havn't shown that film in any festival, youtube etc. as there were a lot of mistakes. It was my first attempt and I had noone to guide or anything. I was the cameraman, art director, writer, editor, spot boy everything in it. I will upload my complete experience of its making sometime later.

So it was great working with both of them for "Sonia". "Sonia" was made for the RGV Agyaat short film contest. There is no update from the organizers about the festival so far.
Currently I am working on a documentary and two short films. I have already directed 2 short films for PFC three. I am planning to direct one more (atleast) for it. And one romantic short film I was planning for a long time. working on the script for all right now. maybe next month I will start the shooting.

(c)2009 www.ashwanithakur.com

kambakht Ishq, Business as usual

2009-07-24T00:16:00.006+05:30

Watched kambakht ishq today as I got free tickets. But after watching the film, I realized that I wasted my money (I mean for the petrol)

The theatre was almost empty. But thats ok as the producers have already made their money. I believe that one should always watch a good movie as that will teach you what to do and never miss a bad one as that will teach you what not to do. What to do and what not to do are both equally important in filmmaking.

A film is an entertainment package of a couple of hours for the audience. Its an art and a business. But both, art and business have to be in balance. This film is an example of a film which has nothing but some senseless comedy & a complete crap story. And just because the title of the film was kambhaqt Ishq, they had unnecessary vulgarity, situationless songs and the list goes on...
A good budget film with two major stars, guest apprience by Sylvester Stallone etc. Its nothing but business - made the film, earned crores in the first few weeks and the game is over.

There's nothing wrong in it. Its business and thats how it has to be done. This is the reason I appreciate Amir Khan's work. He is also a businessman. But look at his films, they have balance. He doesnot waste his money and neither makes the audience feel the same.

I liked a review of this film on pfc by Proneet: http://passionforcinema.com/kambakth-the-review-proof-movie/

"Lets Do it", "The other side"

2009-07-17T02:28:00.007+05:30

Now what should I call this, a coincidence or what. Although I don't like repeating things and doing things always in the same way. But, whenever I think of writing a blog post, the time on the right hand side corner of my laptop shows 2:30 am. Ok its not exactly 2:30 but its always 5-7 minutes age piche, but still...

Chalo no issues, the good news is that I got both my latest short films edited. They have come out good and am satisfied with the output. The posters of the pictures can be found on my social networking profiles and on flickr.

As both the films are made for a festival\competition in Dec. 2009, I would not be able to upload it online or have a public screening.

The team did well and thats the reason the output is good, Sandeep with camera was gr8, Amar did a cool editing job and ofcourse the actors Achal (gr8 expressions) & Aarti (did a wonderful job). Not to forget Shashank & Saurabh for making my job easier by assisting me. I wish I get the same team or as hardworking, dedicated and passionate like this everytime.

Both the films (excluding credits) are of 60 seconds each. Its a challenge to entertain, educate, inspire, effect, shock and relate the audience with a film of such a short duration. And I love it. I don't think I will ever stop making short films.

"Lets do it" was named even before I wrote the script but for the other film I was not sure about the name till the last moment. It was just at the time of editing on the last day that this title "The other side", came in my mind. As it suggests, its about looking life from a different view point. To be honest this is the name of an article I wrote in my teenage about how everyone has a different view point and if we see from the other side, than everyone is right and no one is wrong. In fact I wished to write a book on the same topic ;) The article is totally different from the film but the title suits it completely with respect to its script.

Chidananda Rupah shivoham shivoham

2009-07-05T02:35:00.002+05:30

Back to my blog and yet again at 2:30 am.

Currently I am listening to the song written by Adi Shankaracharya. If you havn't read it or listened to it than I would recommend that you listen to it atleast once in your lifetime. Many singers have sunged it and I am listening the one sung by Uma Mohan.

The song is named as "atmashtakam" or "Nirvana Satakam". You may search it on the internet or watch it on youtube.

Its a perfect explanation of the term Neti Neti (Neither this nor that).

The complete song is as follows: (with its meaning in English)

Mano budhyahankara chithaa ninaham, Na cha srothra jihwe na cha graana nethrer, Na cha vyoma bhoomir na thejo na vayu, Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

Neither am I mind, nor intelligence , Nor ego, nor thought, Nor am I ears or the tongue or the nose or the eyes, Nor am I earth or sky or air or the light, I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na cha praana sangno na vai pancha vaayuh, Na vaa saptha dhathur na va pancha kosa, Na vak pani padam na chopastha payu, Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

Neither am I the movement due to life, Nor am I the five airs, nor am I the seven elements, Nor am I the five internal organs, Nor am I voice or hands or feet or other organs, I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na me dwesha raghou na me lobha mohou, Madho naiva me naiva matsarya bhava, Na dharmo na cha artha na kamo na moksha, Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

I never do have enmity or friendship, Neither do I have vigour nor feeling of competition, Neither do I have assets, or money or passion or salvation, I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na punyam na paapam na soukhyam na dukham, Na manthro na theertham na veda na yagna, Aham bhojanam naiva bhojyam na bhoktha, Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

Never do I have good deeds or sins or pleasure or sorrow, Neither do I have holy chants or holy water or holy books or fire sacrifice, I am neither food or the consumer who consumes food, I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na mruthyur na sankha na me jathi bhedha, Pitha naiva me naiva matha na janma, Na bhandhur na mithram gurur naiva sishyah, Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

I do not have death or doubts or distinction of caste, I do not have either father or mother or even birth, And I do not have relations or friends or teacher or students, I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Aham nirvi kalpo nirakara roopo, Vibhuthwascha sarvathra sarvendriyanaam, Na chaa sangatham naiva mukthir na meyah Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

I am one without doubts , I am without form, Due to knowledge I do not have any relation with my organs, And I am always redeemed, I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Nothing more to say now.....so logging off

Shot 2 short films today - Feeling Tired & Relieved

2009-06-15T02:21:00.008+05:30

Its around 2:30 am right now and I am just about to sleep. But had some work to do and now after writing this post and performing some personal responsibilities I am hopeful that I can sleep.

The good news is that this Sunday was very useful as I shot 2 short films. One is called "Lets Do it: An adult film for family viewing" & the other ones title is not yet selected but i am addressing it as "dark"(this is not even a working title, its just a reference.

I have been working on these films or a long time but was unable to finalize it. Was busy with other projects, like the music album and other films. So I thought no matter I am working on a feature film, but my love for short film will never die. The concepts keeps popping up in my mind and I can't stop it. So I think, write, and shoot. Can't help

I can't reveal anything about both the films as like my other films they also have something in the end for the audience to enjoy\learn or get surprised to.

Unfortunately I have a bad news for all my supporters, well wishers and critics that both the films have been made specially for a festival in Dec. 2009 and till then it can't be publicly previewed.

Yes, I will share its making and some more pics but please give me some time for that.

As of now I have one pic to share with you so am uploading it. The pic shows sandeep with me, who did the camera for both the shorts

Was very busy doing nothing since last few days

2009-06-12T02:11:00.003+05:30

Well I was unable to do anything productive since the last few days. Thought to write a quick blog post. Quick because I am busy and blog post bcoz thats something productive (is it?).

By the way 7th june was my birthday. There's nothing important in that as it comes every year but whats important is that I became a chacha the very next day. On 8th june my elder brother became father. So I was very busy with my nephew. Spent time with him before and after my work daily etc.

But, apart from the work I do to earn some money, I was unable to do anything else. I was unable to give time for my 2 scripts I was working on. But its high time, no excuses and I have to do something productive. My last weeks shooting for a short film was cancelled so its planned for this saturday. I am hopeful everything will fall in place and I will be able to do it.

Need to sleep now as its 4:15 am. People used to wake up at this time in satyuga, before they lost their intelligence.

Failure for me is an opportunity to write a new song

2009-06-03T12:37:00.008+05:30

What is failure?

Something which is the outcome of lack of knowledge, experience... Something which leads to frustration, depression ...

What is Failure for me?

An opportunity to write a new song, a new poem. To start a new beginning and to be more confident.

Failure is my friend. Its always ready to meet me anytime, anywhere. And I never ignore it. Its not that I invite him, but whenever he comes I greet him with love and respect. I know its importance in my life as its contribution is remarkable.

A few days ago he came in the form of response for my debut album "Atmasaakshatkaar".

I know there were many mistakes but post this, I have learnt many more things. I am more confident now although a bit angry on the management. But thats also something to learn how people work in this world. I don't blame anyone, I just know one thing - Nobody can stop the sun to rise with their ego, dominance or ignorance.

I know one thing that "Atmasaakshatkaar" will release, if not today than tomorrow. If there are any changes to be done I am completely open to it. Maybe I can get a professional to sing it but it will definitely reach the hearts of sahajayogies as thats the reason shri mataji composed it through me.

ITS SAD THAT SOMEONE TRIES TO WORK HARD, INVESTS HIS TIME AND MONEY ALONG WITH EMOTIONS IN A PROJECT AND IN RETURN HE RECEIVES DISCOURAGEMENT.

BUT THAT DOES NOT STOP ME TO WORK ON MY NEXT ALBUM, THAT DOES NOT STOP ME TO WRITE NEW SONGS.

INFACT THAT INSPIRES ME TO WRITE THE FOLLOWING POEM.

Its not new to be degected,

Its not new to be left aside,

Its not new to hear a bad news,

Its not new to be attacked by different views

When I fail I feel sad

Coz I know I am not that bad

Its difficult to get over that feeling

And to try again is the only only way of heeling

I know I am not the only artist in the creation

Hence, there has to be acompetition

Its not that I want to be the best

I just don't want to be the rest

Life is like a drive on the highway

Failure is your guide to the right way

In the form of a speed breaker, notice board or a horn

Failure for Ashwani is an inspiration for a new song

When I fail I go to sleep

I wake up and compose a piece

To discover the missing link & to move ahead

Is what I believe...

My first TV Interview

2009-05-31T20:53:00.003+05:30

Well there is always a first time. After getting my first article published in a newspaper some weeks ago, it was time for a TV Interview. A couple of days ago I received a call from Pragya TV and was invited for an interview in their program "Yuva the Power", where they interview young achievers. It was a pleasure and honor for me to be invited for the same.

I should have posted this link yesterday when I went there but my laptop was not with me so couln't write. Everything was great and I loved every minute spent there. The girl there already did research on my work, my previous films etc. which was quite impressive. Mr. Kumar rajesh who was the anchor of the show was a great personality to meet. It was a great feeling to be infront of the camera and talk about my journey so far. Discussed about my style of working, experience, future projects etc.

They have to shoot my profile aswell, to show how I work and than the program will be on air. when Its done, will let you know. If I would have written this post yesterday than I would have written more and with more details. Lot of things have happened in the past one day, including todays audition for my film and yesterday's bad news about my music album.

Auditions Done and now I am feeling head ache

2009-05-31T20:46:00.002+05:30

Today was the audition for my feature film. It was quite hectic, although I invited very few people and that too freshers. Just posted requirement on orkut\facebook and an ad in delhi classified. I thought it would be finished by 1 or 2 as it started at 11 am but it took us 5 pm to finish the audition. In the end I and the co producer and a couple of writers were left and we discussed the script further as lot of modification has to be done. When my head started aching I decided to come back home and have a script sitting later on. Although I will work on the basic plot reconstruction tomorrow alone in my bedroom before the meeting.

A lot of work has to be done now and I cannot afford to have rest. So signing off

Auditions for a Hindi Feature film in Delhi

2009-05-18T18:52:00.005+05:30

This post is deleted as the auditions are over.

Thanks

X rated Video of Emotional Atyachar

2009-05-17T23:54:00.000+05:30

Just now I watched the "X rated Video of Emotional Atyachar" on youtube which was suggested by a friend. Many people loved it but I found it stupid and couldn't manage to watch it completely.

Its sad that many filmmakers take no moral responsibility on their shoulders while making a film.
I was a fan of Anurag Kashyap but no more. Yes no more. I don't think there was any need of this x rated video and gain cheap publicity. Better are those who make C grade films as they have a reason for it. They know their audience and they know who will buy the film and for what reason.

Please I am not acting Moral Police here. Its not about Indian culture or anything. I am also a filmmaker and am talking common sense.

INSTANT SUCCESS

2009-05-17T14:59:00.000+05:30

Well is there something like an instant success?

Yes there is. There is an English word Instant and there is another one called Success. When written together it makes Instant Success. But in reality this word is meaning less. Because success is like a tree and a tree cannot be made instantly. Starting from a small seed fertilizing in the womb of mother earth to its development process. Its a long journey. As there cannot be an instant tree, in the same way there cannot be an Instant Success.

I am into the field of art so I will talk it. But the rule is same for everyone in any field. To achieve success as an actor, director, singer, dancer, musician etc. needs a lot of strong qualities. The most important is the commitment towards your art.
Success can be achieved only by those who stay even when others leave
I don't know anyone in the industry, I don't have contacts, I am poor, I am doing a job, I am married or will marry, I am jobless are few reasons that people give. I understand that the reasons are true and its a pain. But those who achieved success were also born on the same planet with same capabilities. Successful people don't have an extra hand or 3 eyes. They also had physical, mental and social issues but the only difference is that they stayed focused.

The only reason why people become unsuccessful is because they want instant success.
Success comes in parts. As I said earlier imagine success as a tree. Its the best example. The leaves, flowers, fruits and the strength comes with time. Nothing comes in an instant or altogether.
Enjoy every achievement and move on.

Don't give reasons. It will only make you weak. do not blame your circumstances, surroundings, financial condition etc. Some people even blame others for their failure. Nobody can stop you from achieving success. This is a very common thing. If someone has achieved success its his\her own hardwork\smartwork\luck\skill\talent or whatever you call it. Stop complaining like a kid.
No human has the power to stop the sun to rise. Yes if you are a candle than even the slightest of air can stop you but if you are like the sun than nobody can dare to look at you with evil eyes.

Don't compare yourself from others. Everyone is different. Don't be sad if you see a non deserving person enjoying Fame. Be happy that if he can do than you can too. Smile & be confident that you have a weak competitor. In the end its only you and yourself (You is your body and yourself is your soul)

Make targets, achieve it, congratulate yourself and move ahead. This should be your daily activity. Make targets, no matter how small it is. From small to big, try to write down all your targets and follow them. Once achieved move ahead with other targets which leads to success.
Don't worry if any target is left unachieved as there might be many bad judgements too. As its said that "Good judgment comes from experience and experience comes from bad judgment".

Timing is very important. We all watch cricket and some of us play it. One simple thing that is the most important is timing while hitting the ball from the bat. The same goes with us. To achieve a target one has to understand the timing.

Wrong thing at right time Bad timing
Wrong thing at wrong time Bad timing
Right thing at wrong time Bad timing
Right thing at right time Good timing

Do the right thing at the right time. Meet the right person at the right time. Eat, sleep, play, party, worship, practice at the right time. In short utilize your time efficiently.
And you will achieve Instant.....oops Success

(c) 2009 by Ashwani Thakur. The article originally posted on ashwanithakur.blogspot.com

How to achieve INSTANT FAME ?

2009-05-17T12:27:00.000+05:30

So you want Instant FAME.....huh !!

Than you are at the right place. In my journey as a filmmaker I have known the facts of being famous.
Many artists whom I meet usually say that "I want to be famous and I am the next super star". They say that they have all the talent and are very hardworking, honest etc. etc.
But just can't achieve success .........

So, This is a common answer for all of them.....if you live in a country like India where you have more news channels than the amount of news its very easy to be famous.

Try the following steps and achieve instant fame:

Step 1: Do a google search and find out telephone numbers of 5-10 news channels.
Step 2: Buy a parachute.
Step 3: Go to the tallest building in your city and call all the channels and inform them that you are jumping from the tallest building of your city. (Don't disclose about the parachute)
Step 4: Once the "hungry for news" reporters arrive - say one two three and......jump

Hurray.....U just achieved INSTANT FAME........Congratulations !!!

If you are lucky the news will be shown on all news channels, you might be offered interviews followed by articles in news paper and magazines. Maybe your fame takes you to bollywood and Satish Kaushik might offer you a role in his next film like Yamini Sharma.

For best results:
- Ask one of your friend to record the complete incident on a camera.
- Do it on a Sunday afternoon. As people will be at their home and can watch your action live. Moreover a good natural light will enhance your complexion and make your face visible in the camera.

On a serious note, if you are an artist and would like to achieve success than read my blog post "Instant Success"

Please note:
- This post is for entertainment purpose only.
- But if you are really impressed than do it on your own risk.
- Please donot call me if you get arrested or if the parachute leaks or if you fall on a bus, truck, animal etc.
- I would not be held responsibility if anyone tries to perform the above steps.

Suno Na – A film by Amy Thanawala

2009-05-16T11:22:00.000+05:30

Suno Na – Ek Nanhi Aawaz

This blog post is about the recently released film "Suno Na".
As I am working on my Debut, as an indie feature film. My biggest obstacle is release\distribution of the film (like all other indie filmmakers).
I am very happy that one of my friend Amy Thanawala, made her debut in the form of a beautiful film called "Suno na" and the film was released yesterday after a lot of running around. But as they say all's well that ends well.
I am sure releasing of indie films will not be a nightmare in future with some quality films.

About the film:

Star Cast: Tara Sharma, Dharmendra Gohil, Avinash Tiwari, Rinku Patel, Makarand Shukla and Neha Baam.
Director: Amy Thanawala
music: Sanjoy Chowdhury

The story of the film is as follows:

Small town girl from Andhra, Anupama’s (Tara Sharma) boyfriend ditches her after she becomes pregnant. But Anu taking a brave step decides to get keep the child much against her family’s wishes. Facing their opposition, she moves to Mumbai with her best friend Raina (Rinku Patel) and even manages to get a job.

Soon she begins experiencing an unusual thing. She starts hearing her yet unborn child talking to her. She names her unborn child Sammy and starts enjoying conversations with it. As Anu sets out to get a father for her child, she encounters three men from varied backgrounds. First one is her neighbour, musician HMV (Avinash), the second one is middle class professor Dhruv (Dharmendra Gohil) and the third one is her office colleague Deepak (Makrand). But then as Anu is trying to zero down on one, she realizes HMV is gay, Deepak is too conservative to accept someone else’s child and Dhruv is heartbroken on knowing she is carrying someone’s child without marrying him.

Finally it boils down to a hospital climax where all the three suitors are shown going inside the labour room wearing the scrubs.

.....To know what happens next go out & watch the film.

Official Website - www.sunonathefilm.com

Some People Believe Life is a...

2009-05-12T21:48:00.000+05:30

Some People Believe Life is a Song
I sing like Them

Some People Believe Life is a Game
I play like them

Some People Believe Life is a Blessing
I pray like them

Some People Believe Life is a Film
I am one of them
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ashwani Thakur
(c) www.ashwanithakur.com

Atmasaakshatkaar : Music album with 6 songs & 9 years of making

2009-05-10T13:32:00.000+05:30

"Atmasaakshatkaar" is a Hindi\Sanskrit word which means Self realization

To know who we are and hence connect to the power of creation

I have been writing songs since I was 12. But I wrote my first bhajan (Nirmal Maa) at the age of 16 after experiencing the love of the Goddess, adishakti. Since than I wrote some more bhajans and wished that they can be recorded. In march 2009, after 9 years this wish was fulfilled. The album was recorded in a studio in Noida with the support of some good music professionals. Like Param Kishore who gave me music lessons and Suraj Kumar who arranged the music apart from all the great musicians who played the music instruments.

Although I am not a trained singer, but as I wrore the lyrics and composed the music of the bhajans and that too not for commercial success but as a gift to shri mataji. I decided to sing it myself. So I took off from work and did riyaz for 3 months before the final recording. Although there are many mistakes but I am planning to overcome them in my next album.

List of all the Bhajans in the CD:
1. Shree Maa Aayi re… (Celebrating the arrival)
2. Atmasaakshatkaar… (Self Realisation)
3. Papi Man ko… (Requesting for Clearance)
4. Nirmal maa… (Singing the Glory)
5. Sagar ki gahraio… (Experiencing the Love)
6. Raat Kat gayi hai… (Celebrating the awareness)

The music album contains 6 songs and is available only to sahajayogies. You can listen to the title bhajan online on www.ashwanithakur.com/music.html

We live in a great time as this is the time when the greatest blessing to human beings is distributed free of cost, all over the world and that too by forgiving all past sins. Its like getting the biggest degree without any elegibility criteria. The gift of waking up, the gift of self realization "Atmasaakshatkaar".
Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi opened the sahasrara path (7th stage of human evolution) in 1970's and than started giving atmasaakshatkaar to people through Sahaja Yoga.

I Vote

2009-05-07T16:58:00.000+05:30

There is a saying "Who I am makes a difference". There are many ways of experiencing this great feeling. One of them is "TO VOTE". I am proud to be in a country which gives me this right. The right to vote and select the leader.

Every vote counts. Every Indian who is above 18 should use this power.

There are many who don't. Some are lazy but some are fed up of the system and I appreciate there opinion. They say "most" of the politicians are corrupt and unfortunately thats the truth. But those corrupt politicians use ill measures like getting uneducated people vote for them in several numbers. If all of us decide to vote, such things can be overcomed.

I just returned after voting along with my mother and grandmother. After voting we did some shopping. But I didn't discussed whome they voted.

With a great satisfaction I opened the camera in my laptop and took this pic to show the I VOTE mark on my index finger.

My Biggest Fear ?

2009-05-06T21:03:00.000+05:30

If I ask you whats your greatest fear. What would it be??

Recently I was with a group of professionals and we did a small entertaining quiz thing. There were few insight questions and everyone was suppose to answer it.

One question which moved me a lot was - "Whats your greatest Fear"

Well as a human being I have lot of things to be afraid of. Although I never thought about it but it took me just few seconds to discover my greatest fear. My greatest fear is "TO DIE WITHOUT BEING NOTICED" by the entire world.

God gave me a gift. This gift in the form of art has now become a great responsibility. If I do a normal 9-5 job or a business than this gift will stay with me and will finally die with this body. I want my music and writings to be here forever in whatever way possible. Some good films, music albums and books would be required in order to overcome my greatest fear. Well the first step is already taken. My first music album (Atmasaakshatkaar) was recorded in march this year.
Looong way to go. In fact I am creating the path on my own as no existing way suits me.
Have already made few films but now its time to do something bigger and make it bigger and better till I achieve my aim and overcome my fear. क्योंकि डर के आगे जीत है - There is victory beyond fear.

Filmmaking is not my passion

2009-05-05T23:47:00.000+05:30

Be it 1 am in the night or 2 pm in the afternoon. Be it my home or somewhere else. Be it a festival or someone's birth day. From Restaurants to graveyards. Wherever I am whatever is my condition, all I do is either work on a script, create a concept or compose songs. Music and filmmaking is all that revolves around me. My life started with it and will end with it. But still I don't want to say that its my passion. The word passion is completely misleading if I use it with my relation with filmmaking.
The complete process of filmmaking is not passion for me. Its something I do even if I don't want to. Its something I do just for the sake of doing not because of any passion. Passion is something for which one is crazy about or something which interests someone a lot.
For me Filmmaking is like breathing. I do it as I breadth. Theres nothing passionate in breathing. Its by default and every living being breaths. Theres nothing special in it, noone teaches you how to breadth. I am neither passionate about breathing nor about filmmaking. Both are natural and both are reason I am alive.

Enjoying IPL and ofcourse the Vodafone ads

2009-05-04T22:08:00.000+05:30

Well right now I am watching Deccan chargers chasing 179 against Chennai Super Kings. The IPL tournament is quite interesting and I also appreciate it because its a great business, entertainment and sports combination by Lalit Modi. A win win situation for all but the sad part is that the business and entertainment is given more importance than cricket.
I also like the Vodafone ads...infact as much as the IPL.

Back to business, I didn't like the short film scripts sent to me yesterday so I will stick to my own scripts and would shoot it once the final draft is completed.
Apart from that if I didn't mention earlier I am working on a horror film now. It would be the first of its kind. People have already watched based on real story type films but this one is a few steps ahead of it. What exactly it is cannot be disclosed here. So the country needs to wait for it. The location research is done and scripting is under progress and would take a month if time is utilized properly.

Need to sleep now as I have to wake up at 4 am. Why? leave it.
By the way 2 more wicket down in the last 2 minutes and DC is 75 for 5. So the result is out ....Gud night....

ReBlogging

2009-05-03T22:49:00.000+05:30

Its 10:50 pm right now and its the 3rd of March 2009.
what I did just now was I deleted all my previous blog posts. Still figuring out a reason for that. But I am happy and satisfied after that. As I deleted all the blog posts since 2006. Hmm I kept a copy of it on my laptop though. As all the posts carried my feelings, be it the anger on the corruption or my first short film to my struggle days etc.
SO I have decided now to blog regularly and update about what I am doing to people from PRESS and those who like my work and want to work with me.

Well just now my mom knocked my room and reminded that its time to sleep. Well its not always like this, infact usually I work late in the night with some scripts or music. But I have to go for some work at 5 am so need to sleep now.

By the way I bought a Harmonica (mouth organ) yesterday. I already had a harmonium and guitar, so now this is a new passion in my life. Its cool and as I have the basic understanding of other music instruments I was able to startoff with this little instrument. Its very small, a Hohner 10 hole (C).

Before I sleep I need to read a script sent by a friend who wants my help with his short film. So logging off now.....