Punjabi cinema has been in a bloom recently. Now, its blush is also attracting people from other mediums. Latest is the leading playwright of the fourth generation of Punjabi drama, Pali Bhupinder Singh with his debut directorial venture 'Stupid 7'. The film is a story weaved around the problematic life of teenagers. Says Pali, "Being a teacher I have spent numerous years being around young kids, because of that I got a chance to observe their life very closely and understand their issues.
I felt these issues should be brought in public eye."
So, is cinema going to be his only focus or theatre still rules? "Cinema is indeed a bigger and vast medium. On the other hand, Punjabi theatre largely works on government grants which further reduces its scope. So, the choice is obvious, but being a theatre person I would never be able to get it out of mind. And if things work well, I will come with my next play
Tere Jinna Kamina Koi Nahi, this April," Pali states, "I wish to work on issue-based subjects but also keep the entertainment quotient intact. My next project is going to be a satirical family drama."
Pali says while he appreciates the contribution made by comedies in Punjabi industry, such movies don't inspire him personally. "I admire the American, Italian and French kind of cinema which represents a beautiful blend of aesthetics with culture," he says. Pali was very sure of working with a team of newcomers for his first film. "I am extremely particular about two things- punctuality and script. While big stars are into the habit of altering scripts and usually are not on time, I won't call these singers that are currently ruling our industry as actors with the exception of
Diljit Dosanjh who I believe can act well. So, if I get a chance, I���������d like to work with him." As for Bollywood, Pali is blatant, "Bollywood has never attracted me. I don't want to make movies for rickshaw-pullers."