Amidst a fresh set of battles with the powers-that-be, Mr NICE, Ashok Kheny seemed to be in a jolly mood. Perhaps the screening of some of the songs of his Hindi production Shaadi Ke After Effects, directed by Indrajit Lankesh helped? In a chat with Metrolife, he talks about his penchant for movies and future plans.

Why did you enter films?

I can communicate with people and I feel I can share my thoughts, views, opinions better through films. Moreover, national integration can be achieved through films.

What is Shaadi Ke After Effects all about?

Nowadays, a common occurrence is that many married persons are attracted towards their neighbour’s spouse. After some years of marriage, they begin thinking that the neighbour's wife is more beautiful than their own wives and start neglecting them.

Based on this theme, we have tried to produce a comedy. About 97 per cent of the film is shot in Bangalore except a song which was shot in Goa. It is a wonderful comedy, everybody will enjoy it. We have also tried to introduce many Kannada actors, actresses and technicians through this film.

How was your experience in Marujanma? Are you satisfied with the way your role has shaped up?

It was a wonderful experience. I can’t forget an elephant called Lakshmi, which was very affectionate to me in the film. The elephant was very affectionate and it was a very enriching experience.

Tell us about the film city coming up near Bidadi?

Film City will be located in three hundred acres of area. It has 20 studios and 100 villages. With a well equipped infrastructure, we can produce very good quality films surpassing even the expectations of people.  

Acting or production—which do you prefer?

I prefer both, acting as well as production. Now, I have got so many offers to act in forthcoming films.

What is your opinion about the current situation in the film industry?

Kannada industry is growing a lot. New blood, entering the industry, is. competing with other film industries. I however feel that our market should not be restricted. Instead, measures should be taken to avoid monopoly in films.

Will you play and active role there?

I am planning to produce 10 more Kannada films. Six of them will be directed by Indrajit Lankesh. My next film is on river Cauvery, by the same name. People have suffered because of Cauvery conflicts and I intend to showcase that.

Incidentally, Kheny is hoping to get President Pratibha Patil to inaugurate the BMIC corridor on August 15.