Bollywood gets its own walk of fame

When actor Kareena Kapoor inaugurated the 'walk' featuring slabs of prominent members of her family, besides brass statues of two legendary stars.

The 'walk of the stars,' modeled on the lines of Hollywood's famous 'walk of fame,' is dedicated both to living legends of Indian cinema, besides those of yesteryears. The first such Bollywood landmark, set up in the heart of tinseltown, is aimed at bringing its millions of fans closer to their favourite stars.

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UTV Stars, the movie channel, which has set up the 'walk' aims to feature customised slabs bearing the handprints of living legends and others with signatures dedicated to actors who have passed away. The 'walk' will also feature brass statues of some great celebrities.

On Wednesday, eight slabs were installed commemorating the Kapoor 'khandaan' (family): Prithviraj, Raj, Shammi, Randhir, Rishi, Neetu, Karishma and Kareena. And as a special honour, brass statues on a bench of Raj and Shammi Kapoor were also installed.

“An entire 'walk' dedicated solely to Indian cinema is indeed heart-warming,” said Kareena. “I am extremely happy to be part of the inauguration and what better way to do that than felicitate my own family at the 'walk'. She was accompanied by Madhur Bhandarkar, who is directing her in his new film, 'Heroine.'

According to Zarina Mehta, chief creative officer, broadcasting, UTV, the channel has in six months of launch created a strong brand for itself as a knowledgeable Bollywood insider. “The 'walk' is our tribute to this vibrant and wonderful dream world of movies.”

The Bandra Bandstand Residents Trust and the Maritime Board helped in facilitating the project. Priya Dutt, daughter of the late star couple Nargis and Sunil Dutt (who is also an elected MP from Mumbai), actress Shabana Azmi (a former Rajya Sabha MP) and former state minister Baba Siddiqui also supported the venture.

UTV Stars plans to launch similar 'walks' in Delhi, London and Dubai. Six brass statutes of the most reputed actors will be installed at benches at each of these locations, besides handprints and signatures of celebrities.

Other actors who will be featured on the 'walks' include Sharmila Tagore, Meena Kumari, Shabana Azmi, Sridevi and Sonam Kapoor.

nithin@khaleejtimes.com