Bhansali, the muse

Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali's oeuvre of films may have focused mostly on the relationship between two lovers, but one of his former assistants is about to pay what will probably be a big compliment to the directoru00a0-- a film on the close relationship Bhansali shares with his mother.



Rohit Jugraj, who earlier assisted Bhansali on Devdas, and later turned director with Ram Gopal Varma's James, has been so inspired by Bhansali's affection for his mother that his latest project Zard, which he has both written and directed, is based on his former mentor. The film tells the story of a young boy who meets different individuals while searching for his mother in Ladakh.

According to Jugraj, "I've seen the wonderful bond that Bhansali shares with his mother. All sons are devoted to their mothers, but Bhansali's case is something else. It's inspiring."

All characters, including the protagonist, are non-professional actors and the film was shot on location.
Jugraj says he can't wait to show the complete film to Bhansali. "I think he will be pleased with what I've done."