With his very first film, Bhavni Bhavai (Gujarati), Ketan Mehta leapt to the very top of a small heap of filmmakers with vision and an original voice. Since then, Mehta has won a number of national and international awards, and notable works include Mirch Masala , Maya Memsaab , Sardar , and the television series Mr. Yogi .
What is your idea of happiness?
Happiness is too boring. Excitement is exciting.
What is your greatest fear?
That I'll be happy.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
Charlie Chaplin.
Which living person do you most admire?
Deepa Sahi.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
My need to like myself.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Foul breath.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Making films.
What is your favourite journey?
To the other end of imagination.
Who is your favourite painter?
The one who paints the sky.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Virtuousness.
On what occasion do you lie?
When life is a lie - how does it matter? Sab Maya hai. [It's all an illusion.]
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
That I can't disappear at will.
Which living person do you most despise?
Who better than myself?
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Zindabad!
What is your greatest regret?
The delay in the release of Rang Rasiya .
When and where were you happiest?
On the sets of a film. Always.
What is your present state of mind?
In a flux, as ever.
How would you like to die?
Sorry, don't want to.
What is your favourite motto?
Live and let live.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
There are 3 — I, me and myself
