Sikkim talents screened for Amol Palekar's new film

Gangtok, February 5: Sikkim is finally heading towards hypnotizing bollywood as actor turned producer-director Amol Palekar is in the city to explore new talents for his next film.

The film maker will audition local talents for his new venture.

He arrived here on Sunday with his team. He is also expected to spend the rest of the week touring various locations in the state.

The last time when Sikkim’s mesmerizing splendour got noticed in a classic movie was ‘Jewel Thief’ in 1967 where some portions of the movie was shot here featuring evergreen hero Dev Anand.

All details have been kept under tight wraps until he begins shooting sometime in March-April, the best season to capture the spirit and beauty of this hill State.

Matching his screen persona where he had delivered several hits like Golmaal and some serious art films, the actor of yesteryears likes to maintain a low profile and remains tightlipped about his forthcoming project despite much coaxing from media.

However, it has been learnt that the feature film will be based on Sikkim and the entire movie will be shot here in the state to project as well as promote it to the outside world.

''Palekar will be scouting for probable locations'', a senior government official said.

Mr Palekar also called on Chief Minister Pawan Chamling yesterday and is said to have discussed the film project. The duo had met earlier in regard to this project and had detailed discussions. The Chief Minister was keen to help the director.

Mr Palekar also toned down the speculations surrounding the purpose of his visit as he told media yesterday, ''we are here for the preliminary aspects and nothing had been finalized so far. We will let you know the developments soon.'' Accompanying him, his wife was more spontaneous. She said that they had been in Sikkim almost seven times over the past few years and were captivated by the state's natural beauty.

''Sikkim is beautiful and very different from all other places,'' she said.

The visiting group had also been auditioning for a probable child artiste from Sikkim for the movie.

State`s tourism department is handling Palekar’s itinerary in Sikkim. He had also held discussions with Tourism secretary SBS Bhaduria and other senior tourism officials regarding the project.

He along with his group is expected to visit Namchi, Rinchenpong and other areas in West and South Sikkim from today.