The big Friday release this week, Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s star-studded film ‘Eklavya’ marks the return of the director after seven long years.

One of the most awaited films of 2007, set for release today (February 16) ‘Eklavya’ boasts a steller star cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Vidya Balan, Sanjay Dutt, Raima Sen and Boman Irani. It is also Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s first film as director after a gap of seven years.


In true Vidhu Vidhu Chopra style, the film’s premier was if possible, even bigger than the canvas of ‘Eklavya’. Held at the Imax Adlabs in Wadala on Thursday night (February 15) the multiplex was swathed in royal red, and made to resemble a Rajasthani fort.

Explaining the reason for the grand décor, Chopra said that it reflected the movie. “The film when you will see it, is probably not the kind of film you have seen in a long time, so it reflects the film.”

“This is quite amazing but this is very typical of Vinod Chopra. He’s very passionate about making his films, and everything that he does he does with a lot of passion and committment, and he aesthetically decorates every little piece. I’m just amazed that he has taken so much trouble to put it all together,” commented Amitabh Bachchan who was at the premier.

“I think it’s breathtaking. Someone just told me that its probably the first time after ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ that they’re having a premier like this. I’m glad that it’s happening for one of my films, the film I belong to. It’s just in keeping with Mr Chopra’s tradition of detailing, where Rajasthan has been recreated for you…though he’s not a very opulent person himself,” said Vidya Balan.

While the rest of the star cast turned up in full force at the premiere, Saif Ali Khan was conspicuous by his absence. But there was an element of surprise - the reclusive Rekha put in an appearance, and so did Aishwarya Rai.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra claims ‘Eklavya’ is his best work ever – and starting Friday the audience will find out if they agree with him.