Sanjay Leela Bhansali: Tribute to my mom

The promos of 'Ram-Leela' have been all over our TV screens lately, and its songs are steadily climbing the charts. Talking about the movie, director Sanjay Leela Bhansali says that since 'Khamoshi' he had wanted to make a film along the lines of 'Romeo and Juliet'. Also, “I wanted to pay a tribute to my mother and so Deepika’s character is named Leela. It feels great because my dream of paying a tribute to my mom has been fulfilled.”

A fresh perspective
I always work hard on my films but the preparations for Ram-Leela took my life. Six months went in pre-production alone,” he says, adding, “I put in double the efforts in 'Ram-Leela' than in my last two films. It was tougher because everyone, right from the actors, to the costume designer were freshers. They came up with their ideas which I combined with mine.”

Love scenes, not pelvic thrusts
After all 'Ram-Leela' is a love story and Sanjay had to handle the romantic scenes with the care they deserved. He says, “This time I have directed the scenes with more open-mindedness. The scenes are sensual but not aggressive. They are better than the pelvic thrust we usually see in our Hindi films.” About Ranveer and Deepika’s chemistry, he says, “The love translated by them on screen is magical.  Also, I have shown the kiss in a natural manner… there’s nothing nonsensical in it. I had to restrict myself a little as it has my mother’s name.”

Kareena’s loss, Deepika’s gain
Kareena Kapoor was originally supposed to essay Deepika’s character. Sanjay says. “Yes, she was to do the film and we had prepared the costumes etc. accordingly and we were happy about it. Both of us tried to make this work, but it could not happen. But we parted on a good note and decided that we would work together some other time.”

Missing muses
Sanjay is best known for the work he has done with Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya and Salman Khan and he misses them. “Yes! I do miss them. Ash is a brilliant actor. Madhuri and Aishwarya are my muses. I would keep gazing at them when they would dress up and walk down to the sets. Salman was good. But I also think Ranveer and Deepika have immense talent.”

Mood swings
“Yes people say I shout on the sets but I have never done so. Who is not moody? If my assistant has forgotten to get the requirements, I will never compromise on it. It is his duty to get everything in place. Why should I suffer for him? Everyone has fluctuating moods. I am very particular about everything.”