जोधा Akbar: History is boring.

Bollywood is typically averse to historicals. Shear economics of providing reasonable production value to a project is a massive deterrant. Moreover, there is a strong view amongst filmmakers that Indians are more interested in mythologies than histories. History is boring. In last ten years I can remember of only one historical attempted by any hindi filmmaker -- ASOKA. The only reason this movie actually got made is Shahrukh Khan. In spite of his blockbuster successes, the superstar had been criticised for his lack of versatility and inane performances. ASOKA was his gateway to eternity. Santosh Sivan sold the story of ASOKA, the lover and peace-maker, with greta conviction. What audiences got to see was a lopsided story of a pansy king, strutting coyishly in a carnival in Rio. We don't like our kings chasing dumb-belles outdoors. We would much rather have them fighting tame adversaries, astride their elephants. Unfortunately, Shahrukh and Santosh Shivan were too keen on romance than history. The audiences welcomed the movie with a quiet no--there was not a soul (dead or alive) in the theaters after the first few shows. With the baggage of such a disappoiting precedent, here comes Ashotosh Gowarikar with his Magnum Opus Jodha . Promos look good. After the success of Lagaan, Ashutosh's movies have always been able to create decent buzz. Music has played some role in creating hype. Remember, Swadesh. Rehman was at top of his game. This time around, the soundtrack of Jodha Akbar hasn't really set the market on fire. Feel of the music is in sync with the theme but it lacks the zing. In this one, Ashwarya Rai looks exquisite, but Hritik looks a tad out of place. I am not sure if he would be able top pull it off in Jodha Akbar. I just pray the movie is as good as it promises to be. Jodha Akbar is significant, because ashutosh is making it. If the film succeeds, it will pave way for historicals in bollywood.