O.P. Ralhan Chowk inaugurated in Mumbai

Mumbai: Filmmaker O.P. Ralhan who has given the industry films like ‘Phool Aur Patthar’, ‘Talash’, ‘Bande Haath’, ‘Hulchul’, ‘Paapi’ was pos...

Mumbai: Filmmaker O.P. Ralhan who has given the industry films like ‘Phool Aur Patthar’, ‘Talash’, ‘Bande Haath’, ‘Hulchul’, ‘Paapi’ was posthumously honoured by his family and Dharmendra with a chowk dedicated to him. The director has boosted the careers of actors to stardom and introduced several new talents during his lifetime, Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan and Zeenat Aman to name a few. He was passionate about his films, made films which were with social messages, great stories and very avant grade. For him, celluloid was a dimension of existence and expression.

Dharmendra did the unveiling, lit the traditional lamp to mark an auspicious beginning and shared his experience of the film ‘Phool aur Patthar’ and what his fond memories were with the late O.P. Ralhan. Saturday morning was dotted with his fans to participate in the tribute by his family. The unveiling started with a presentation of a shawl to Dharmendra. This was followed by those present sharing their experiences and fond memories of the magic maker.

Dharmendra remembered Ralhan as an intelligent and intellectual director, who was very jolly and affectionate. He further said, “If only memories could come alive, I would call my friend my buddy Ralhan and tell him let’s make another ‘Phool aur Patthar’. We had our friendship, love and admiration for each other. We were friends who argued and fought with each other, but there was a bond with each other that always remained. On this occasion of the chowk being named after him, now he will be remembered with great love and respect always. If only memories would come alive then he would be with us even now.”

Rupalli Shah, Ralhan’s daughter said, “Dad was a people's person, he had friends from all walks of life. He was always ready to help others and was passionate about films & film making. To him till his last breath, the topic of discussion was only films. The broken film reel behind is the depiction of his unfulfilled dream projects. There was so much more to OP as he was fondly called by all those close friends of his. He started his journey with acting and went on to form his own Production house which showcased great films like ‘Phool aur Patthar’, ‘Talash’, ‘Bandhe Haath’, ‘Paapi’ to name a few.  I am humbled and eternally grateful for all those who have come together today on this occasion of my father’s road and chowk naming ceremony. A large part of the journey of Indian cinema boasts the footprints of my father. There are so many fond memories of his filmmaking journey that I recollect. There were days of scriptwriters, musicians, dress designers and artists bustling in and out of our home. Many times I was made to sit in when the music directors and scriptwriters would come over for creating music and narration. If my father saw me enjoy the music it would be his cue to go ahead with the music for the song. I would enjoy the storytelling and hearing his ideas come alive on screen after I had actually witnessed the process. To have a chowk and road named after him is a moment of great pride for all his fans and family alike. We want to thank all who have been part of his film career journey & all those wonderful people who have helped us helm this effort to etch his name in prosperity. It will be an everlasting memory and we are so grateful that this stays on forever.”

She further added, “My gratitude to Asif Zakaria Bandra, Mumbai Corporator, Vinayak Vispute Assistant Commissioner H Ward, Priya Dutt Roncon without whose support it would not be possible to be standing here today having this momentous moment in the memory of my father. A special thank you to Vishwas Nagre Patil Joint Commissioner Mumbai for being here with us. Thank you to my family and friends all of whom have contributed in their own way to make this day become a reality and being there with me always.” 

Ralhan's grandson, Armaan Ralhan who made his acting debut alongside Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor in ‘Befikre’ shared a few words. “My grandfather was a maverick in his film career as a filmmaker. As his grandkids, my sister and I always were loved and received his warmth and care. As he passed away when I was only 9 years old I recall memories of being thoroughly pampered by him. His magnum opus films are still revered and remembered. He was a self-made man and walked alone in his journey of filmmaking and acting not knowing where his destination would lead him.” 

His art and creativity live on in the hearts of audiences, and to family and friends, his passion, incredible talent, philanthropic nature and tremendous love for his family and the film fraternity, will forever be remembered and cherished.