Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; January 18, 2018)

Two days ago, author Amish Tripathi took to Twitter to reveal that a special screening of Padmaavat had him convinced the film “celebrates Rajput bravery”. mid-day has learnt that the screening was only one among a series that will be held ahead of the film’s January 24 release for various artistes.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, we hear, will host trials for social media Influencers to get their opinion about Padmaavat, before it is aired in cinemas. A source says, “Bhansali wants to be certain that the film doesn’t hurt sentiments. He will show it to a variety of people, including columnists, designers and writers, to get their feedback and make last- minute amends, if needed.”

It is speculated that writers Chetan Bhagat and Durjoy Datta will also catch a screening this week, and a screening will be organised for the royal families of Rajasthan too.

Vickey Lalwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 23, 2014)

He became the toast of the publishing industry when Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar successfully optioned for the Hindi film rights of his best-selling novel, Immortals of Meluha. Now, Amish Tripathi has cracked an even bigger deal for the book’s English rights with an undisclosed American producer. And that prompts the first query:
 
Did Karan Johar help you clinch the Hollywood deal?
No, it was negotiated by CAA (Creative Artists Agency). The Hollywood based talent agency also brokered the deal with Karan.
 
Was Karan aware of the deal?
Yes, it was done with his approval. One should be transparent with one’s business partners. Karan has been very supportive.
 
Which film will release first - the Dharma one or the Hollywood one?
I wouldn’t be the right person to comment on this, but I think it will be the Indian one. Dharma is in the advanced stages of scripting.
 
Buzz is, Karan’s Shhuddhi is an adaptation of Immortals of Meluha?
Karan has already clarified that it is not. Period.
 
Do you think the subject will be more appealing to audience’s abroad who are not so exposed to Indian mythology?
Difficult to say. But yes, in India everyone knows who Lord Shiva is, which may not be the case abroad.
 
Are other foreign producers also approaching you for the rights?
No, a film on Immortals of Meluha would require a huge budget. How many film industries in this world can afford to splurge on it? But yes, the book is being translated into other language like Spanish and Estonian.
 
Will you be monitoring the films?
I will be the Creative Consultant on both the Hindi and Hollywood adaptations. They can always call me if they have any queries or want any clarifications.
 
Will you have a say in the casting?
When I write a book i don’t see an actor, I see a character

Vikas Swarup and Chetan Bhagat’s books are being adapted for the bigscreen. It’s interesting to see filmmakers seeking out literary muses...
The trend was prevalent in the 60s and 70s. But suddenly in the 80s, film based on books went out of fashion. But now we’re back to looking at ready stories. I guess it minimises the risk factor. I have high regards for the two authors. Chetan has changed the rules of the publishing business.
 
We hear, you are in awe of Aamir Khan's marketing strategies. Doesn't he tend to overdo it?
He knows how to market his films well. That’s not overdoing it, that’s creativity!
 
Tell us about your next book...
I’m still writing. It’s based in the matrix of mythology, philosophy and history. My grandfather was a teacher in Banaras who headed the Maths and Physics departments. We grew up discussing Vedas. (Smiles) Our family loves debates. That’s how I know so much about our scriptures.