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Born story-teller

DIRECTOR ASHUTOSH Gowariker loves creative adventures. And now, he is all set to make a film titled What's Your Raashee, starring the latest onscreen pair of Harman Baweja and Priyanka Chopra.

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With this film, Ashutosh is stepping into new and unfamiliar territory. "The genre of What's Your Raashee is very different from what I have worked on so far. It is a romantic comedy. The story is about a guy trying to find a girl to marry," he explains. And, looking at the title, it is easy to figure out the film's connection with astrology. "It is one of the aspects of the film," he answers. "When a guy chooses a girl for marriage, what are his considerations? That is what the film looks at from a humorous point of view," says he. He further adds that the story has been inspired by a book. "The story has been inspired by the book, Kimball Ravenswood by the renowned Gujarati writer, Madhu Rye."

Gowariker's films usually have something to convey. "We all watch films for entertainment. But, it is the message or the theme that remains with you. So, I try to pass on a moral message." Rumours were rife about Ashutosh wanting to make a movie on Mahatma Gandhi. But, he refutes them, "After Richard Attenborough's Gandhi, how can I think of making one?" Ashutosh has always focused on the script. "I simply enjoy telling stories," he says. "There is a joy in creating an original script. It is something different from the rest, and it is not necessary to follow any trends in the industry. It is very motivating when you choose a new untouched story," he adds.

Actor, writer and director, Ashutosh has touched upon all facets of filmmaking. He laughs. "You can never really say you have achieved your targets. Whenever I work on a new story, I'm beginning from scratch. I take it up as a challenge. You are always evolving as a director. It is about understanding your obstacles, and finding solutions to your problems," says he. Before he ventured into filmmaking, wasn't he an actor himself? Does he still feel like taking up any role? "Of course," he replies. "Acting is my first love. As long as it does not interfere with any film I'm working on, and if I get a good script I will definitely play the part," he adds.

Whether we see him in a movie or not, we are sure that Ashutosh will continue to dazzle audiences for many years to come.