In a recent event at the Indian Film Project (IFP) Season 14 in Mumbai, Hollywood actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt expressed his profound admiration for Alia Bhatt's period drama, Gangubai Kathiawadi. The film, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has garnered international attention for its unique blend of drama and musicality. Gordon-Levitt's praise for the film is not just a testament to its artistic merit but also highlights the growing global appreciation for Indian cinema.
During his session with Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao, Gordon-Levitt couldn't recall the name of his favorite Indian film initially. However, after being reminded by Rao that it was Bhansali's Gangubai Kathiawadi, he was quick to express his admiration. The film, which was released in 2022, is an adaptation of a chapter from Hussain Zaidis book Mafia Queens of Mumbai and features Alia Bhatt in the title role of Gangubai, one of the most powerful and respected madams of Kamathipura during the 1960s.
Gordon-Levitt described Gangubai Kathiawadi as a 'very heavy and distinguished drama' that 'felt almost like a Scorsese movie at times.' He praised the film's unique style, noting that it seamlessly transitioned from intense dramatic scenes to gorgeous musical numbers that were 'so sincere and well-crafted.' This blend of genres captivated Gordon-Levitt, making him 'completely enamored' with the film.
The film's impact on Gordon-Levitt was profound. It inspired him to explore Indian cinema more deeply and motivated him to visit India. He expressed his love for the culture and the genuine passion for movies and artistry that he experienced during his visit. This enthusiasm is evident in his statement: 'I love what Im feeling from the culture here. Theres such a big love of movies and artistry, and I want to come here and make a movie here.' This sentiment underscores the growing interest in cross-cultural collaborations in the film industry.
Gordon-Levitt's admiration for Gangubai Kathiawadi extends beyond its artistic merit. He also expressed a desire to participate in an Indian film, even suggesting that he would like to act and perform a song and dance sequence in an Indian movie. This willingness to engage with Indian cinema on a deeper level is a testament to the film's ability to transcend cultural boundaries and inspire international collaboration.
During his visit to India, Gordon-Levitt was involved in various activities that showcased his enthusiasm for Indian culture. He participated in a dance session with Rajkummar Rao, learning the hook step from one of the hit songs from 'Stree 2' titled 'Kati Raat Maine Kheto Mein.' He also performed a garba dance step to the song 'Chogada' from 'Loveyatri.' These moments highlight the joy and camaraderie that can arise from cultural exchange.
Alia Bhatt's performance in Gangubai Kathiawadi has been widely acclaimed. Her portrayal of Gangubai, a brothel madam who rises from being a victim of circumstance to becoming a powerful matriarch, has earned her numerous awards, including the National Film Award for Best Actress. The film's success is a testament to the talent and dedication of both Alia Bhatt and Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
The IFP event where Gordon-Levitt shared his admiration for Gangubai Kathiawadi was part of a larger celebration of Indian cinema. The event featured a lineup of prominent Indian cinema personalities, including Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Kabir Khan, Tapsee Pannu, Aditi Rao Hydari, Saurabh Shukla, Shoojit Sircar, Guneet Monga, Ram Madhvani, Kunal Kemmu, and Sharvari. This gathering underscores the growing recognition of Indian cinema globally and the potential for international collaborations.
In conclusion, Joseph Gordon-Levitt's praise for Gangubai Kathiawadi highlights the film's unique appeal and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. The film's blend of drama and musicality, coupled with Alia Bhatt's outstanding performance, has made it a standout in both Indian and international cinema. As Gordon-Levitt continues to explore Indian cinema further, it is clear that Gangubai Kathiawadi has left an indelible mark on him and will likely inspire future collaborations between Hollywood and Bollywood.
