After his photographic tribute to Amitabh Bachchan was published in 2006, veteran photographer Pradeep Chandra is back with a new project — a compilation of exclusive images and interviews related to Bollywood’s Mr Perfectionist, Aamir Khan.
Early days: Aamir Khan, with a few friends and a very animated Dev Anand
Pradeep has over three decades of experience as a photojournalist, and has worked with all the major dailies in the country.
In a chat with Deccan Chronicle, Pradeep said that it was three years ago that he decided to work on this project. Excerpts from the conversation:
Why Aamir?
There is so much curiosity about Aamir and his life. When I decided to write the book, I couldn’t think of any other name but his. I’ve always admired Aamir’s quality of making people feel important. It is rare and endearing.
With the baddie: Aamir with Gulshan Grover and Shah Rukh Khan
Aamir’s evolution
I’ve known Aamir for a long time and observed his growth as an actor. From Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak till date, there have been various changes in Aamir’s life and his career. I think he is the only actor of his generation who has kept away from controversies. Barring the Jessica Hines allegation (Hines, a journalist, alleged that Aamir and she had an affair during the making of Lagaan and that she gave birth to his love-child), Aamir has managed to keep himself out of the media glare. He is a mystery. and no one has dared to spill the beans about him.
Aamir with ex-wife Reena
While writing the book, I made several calls to Ashutosh Gowariker, Indra Kumar and other filmmakers who have closely worked with Aamir. I wanted his filmmaker friends to talk about working with a man who has grown from a gawky newcomer in QSQT to the glorified superstar of Taare Zameen Par and 3 Idiots. But they backed out. Prasoon Joshi too remained unavailable. From the entire lot, it was just Indra Kumar who agreed to meet me for an interview. However, he too got cold feet and declined later. Clearly they were Aamir’s orders! He has always led a discreet life. No one is allowed to trespass into his personal space or give out details about it.
The cover of the book by Pradeep Chandra
What Aamir thinks of the book
Aamir is yet to read the book and give me his feedback. He also will not be present at the release as he’s busy with the TV premiere of his unreleased film.
Pradeep’s book on Aamir Khan will be released on June 8.
