Ketan Mehta (b. 1952)

Gujarati and Hindi director born in Navsari, Gujarat. Educated in New Delhi where he graduated in economics. Extensive theatre work: acted for Dishantar group, New Delhi, directed English plays Zoo Story and The Lesson for Motley, Bombay (1976-7), and staged Channas, a Gujarati adaptation of One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest, for Indian National Theatres, Bombay (1983); also did stage lighting for dancers Birju Maharaj and Kumudini Lakhia. Graduated from the FTII (1975). Worked in Space Application Centre, Ahmedabad (1975-6). Made controversial TV serial on Ahmedabad TV, Wat Tamari, on landless labourers and Untouchables in Gujarat. First feature Bhavni Bhavai, dedicated to Brecht, comic-strip authors Goscinny and Uderzo and to Asait Thakore, pioneer of the Bhavai form, is a rare successful filmic adaptation of folk theatre. Work thereafter has increasingly concentrated on adapting popular art conventions rather than folk, occasionally evoking the action and stunt genres of 50s Hindi film. Opposed to earlier notions of self-conscious art-cinema, he believes in the creative potential of explicitly lumpen cultures while also chronicling their power to destroy (Holi). Recent films include adaptation of Madame Bovary (Maya Memsaab) and a biographical on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Sardar). Married to Maya Memsaab’s lead actress Deepa Sahi.

FILMOGRAPHY: 1975: Madhsurya (Sh); Coolies at Bombay Central (Doc); 1977-8: Wat Tamari (TV); 1977: Experience India (Doc); 1980: Bhavni Bhavai/Andher? Nagari; 1982: Fair Folk at Tarnetar (Doc); 1983: Holi; 1985: Mirch Masala; Ba Ki Yaad Mein (Doc); Kisi Ek Phool Ka Naam Lo (TV); 1987: Bandhani (Doc); 1988: Hero Hiralal; Pehla Kadam (Sh); 1989: Mr Yogi (TV); 1992: All in the Family (Doc); Maya Memsaab; 1993: Sardar; 1995:Oh Darling Yeh Hai India.

Director