Who was first? Elvis Presley or Shammi Kapoor?

Elvis presley June 17, 2008

Veteran actor Shammi Kapoor was felicitated by Osian’s Cine Fans for his contribution to Indian cinema at the concluding function of the movie group’s two-day film festival on Asian and Arab cinema here tonight.

The actor, who came to the stage on a wheelchair, was feted by filmmakers Shakti Samant and Lekh Tandon, who played an important role in shaping Kapoor’s career.

The 76-year-old actor said he was overwhelmed at the honour bestowed upon him. He also appreciated the exhibition of his film posters put up at the NCPA, venue of the festival, saying it brought back “very beautiful memories”.

“What I am today is because of the film industry.”

He thanked all those who helped him in his career and made a special mention of late Mohammed Rafi, saying he was incomplete without the legendary playback singer.

“Rafi saheb sang for me from all his heart,” he said.

Actor Aamir Khan, who squeezed time from his shooting schedule in Chennai to attend the event, spoke high about “Shammi uncle” and disagreed in terming him as Elvis Presley of India. “In fact, Elvis Presley was America’s answer to Shammi Kapoor,” Aamir said.

The Bollywood star had once said a sure sign of a good actor was the belief with which he gave his shot, Aamir said. “And Shammi Kapoor stands true on this test.”

Aamir said Kapoor always lived in the moment, unassuming about his stardom unlike him. “I am always aware of being a celebrity,” he said.

The event concluded with unveiling of Osian’s cultural complex – Osianama – by Osian’s Chairman Naveill Tuli, who said it was aimed at uniting the cultural intelligentsia of the country.

The complex, erstwhile known as Minerva theatre at Lamington Road, will house seven sections, including a debating hall and two theatres dedicated to world cinema.

“Other features are an auction house, research centre, museum and art gallery,” Tuli said.

The main 10-day Osian’s Cine Fan Film Festival will be held in Delhi from July 10, Tuli said.

The event was followed by the premiere of Manishankar’s `Mukhbir’ starring actor Sameer Dattani among others.