PODCAST: Aamir Khan

If filmgoers on these shores don't recognize actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan (producer and star of the Oscar-nominated Lagaan) as something akin to "the Tom Cruise of India," it's because the Indian film industry is so prolific that it's hard to keep up unless you're a bona fide Bollywood nut. For first-time filmmaker Anusha Rizvi's Peepli Live, Khan wears his producer's hat to bring this bittersweet satire to theaters around the globe:

On the eve of national elections in the Indian village of Peepli, two poor farmers, Natha (Omkar Das Maikpuri) and Budhia (Rahubir Yadav), face losing their land over an unpaid government loan. Desperate, they seek help from an apathetic local politician, who suggests they commit suicide to benefit from a government program that aids the families of indebted deceased farmers. When a journalist overhears Budhia urge Natha to "do what needs to be done" for the sake of their families, a media frenzy ignites around whether or not Natha will commit suicide.

For a superstar entertainer who rolls with an entourage and bodyguards, Khan proved to be a rather engaged and humble man in our sit-down interview. We discussed the farmer suicide epidemic, the ridiculousness of real life versus satire, the stigma of an "A" rating, and why he hasn't yet sought any Hollywood projects.

To listen to the podcast, click here.

Podcast Music
INTRO: Indian Ocean: "Des Mera" (from Peepli Live)
OUTRO: Anudhara Sriram: "Lagaan... Once Upon a Time in India"

Posted by ahillis at August 16, 2010 8:17 AM