Amol Palekar moves to making a fun film

Known for his selection of unusual and sensitive subjects, Amol Palekar's next venture is a light family drama in Hindi titled "Dumkata" - something on the lines of the Basu Chatterjee-Hrishikesh Mukherjee genre of 'fun' films.

Veterans like Om Puri, Sachin Khedekar and Sharnaz Patel along with child actors Khush Mallick and Aseem Desai have been cast in the film.

"Two demands are repeatedly made by my fans - start acting and make films similar to the Basuda & Hrishida gharana of which I was an integral part of as an actor. 'Dumkata' is my attempt to make a light hearted family film," said Palekar.

"Do we offer anything original to our children? They have to relish the Hollywood combos or digest its second rate desi imitations. I am sure that 'Dumkata' will offer something original to our kids," he added.

Palekar has started shooting the film in Pune. Sandhya Gokhale, who had written his last three films, has penned the story, screenplay and dialogue.

Commenting on the storyline of "Dumkata", she said, "It is very different from my last three serious screenplays of 'Anaahat', 'Paheli' and 'Thaang'. The subject is pure fun. No stretching brain muscles but sheer entertainment."

Musicians Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy have composed the music and the lyrics are by Gulzar. Om Puri will be lending his voice for a rap number.

In his 26 years of career as a director, Palekar has made 11 films - five in Marathi and six in Hindi. "Dumkata" will be his 12th.