
In November 2006, Screen WM and BAFTA were proud to present BAFTA Goes Bollywood on Tour in association with Mela '06
The event hosted Q&A interviews with Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan, Ajay Devgan and Kajol in front of a live audience.
Saif Ali Khan's film career soared after the 2001 cult hit Dil Chahta Hai (Do Your Thing) and further hits such as 2005's Salaam Namaste (Hi:Hello) established him as one of Bollywood's most bankable stars. Khan seems to have all the characteristics of the contemporary Indian film star and recently received strong critical acclaim for his performance in Omkara (2006).
Ajay Devgan's intensity as an anti-hero set him apart from many male stars of the 90s. His debut role was in 1991's action packed Phool Aur Kaante (Rose and Thorns). His versatility continued in films that tackled social and controversial issues such as 2002's The Legend of Bhagat Singh. He recently received critical praise for his leading role as Othello in Omkara (2006).
Kajol is one of Indian cinema's most popular actresses with legions of fans worldwide. Since her role in 1995's Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (Brave-Heart will take the Bride), her career has soared with blockbusters such as 2001's Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (Sometimes Happiness, Sometimes Sorrow) and 2006's Fanaa (Destroyed In Love). Kajol is known for her reluctance to compromise, carefully selecting her roles.
The event also showcased screenings of the recent BAFTA Goes Bollywood interviews with Shah Rukh Khan, Yash Chopra, Aamir Khan, Karan Johar and Preity Zinta; as well as several contemporary Indian film screenings.
Screen WM was also present in the 'Ultimate Opportunities' zone where visitors could come to talk to us about what opportunities are available in the exciting world of the moving image.
Mela '06 was a three day event, set to be the largest ever Asian lifestyle experience staged in the UK and featured the very best of Asian culture, from fashion, beauty and shopping, to business, music and entertainment. For more information, go to www.necmela.com.
BAFTA and Screen WM would like to thank Yash Raj Films Intl. Ltd and Eros Intl. Ltd for permission to screen film clips during this event; and also Desi Dish the exclusive caterer for the Asian Mela.