For me, making films is an enjoyment. Initially I was serious about it but now its more of a hobby. Even if I don't have work I come here (Padmalaya Studios) -- the studio is my house. So far, my success rate is 80 per cent.I started life as a government servant -- a civil engineer in the defence establishment. What could I invest, there was no question of saving anything on that kind of salary. It was barely enough to feed us.I don't believe in the stock market. As I said, I invest in films only. See, any business is a risk. But we know the film business now and we have our own production house, distribution, television ... one brother is an actor, so there is a family concession when we make Telugu or Tamil movies.No, I don't contribute to any charity, and have no intention of doing so either. We like to take care of ourselves first.
I don't spend on myself at all. What is needed for the house expenses they take, the rest is all put back in films. Even my travelling is done with a purpose; for example,when we shot for Mawaali in Mauritius, or Hoshiyaar in Kenya and Zimbabwe. It is cheaper to shoot abroad -- here if you need a 50-member unit, there you make do with 20.
I wouldn't call money an evil, but it's definitely necessary to continue life -- for everyone. Without money you can't do anything.
Man should have satisfaction. We are satisfied.
-- as told to Punam Mohandas
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.
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