Sanjay Leela Bhansali

I was criticised for making 'Devdas' so ostentatious. But stark and realistic cinema isn't the only real cinema in this country.

It is very difficult for anyone to predict how a film will do. It depends on so many things: the mood of the audience, the state of their mind at the time, how they have reacted to the whole treatment.

Once a film is selected at Cannes, the crossover becomes very easy, thanks to the prestige and dignity it gains at Cannes.

The first film that I saw of Shammi Kapoor was 'Bhramachari.' I instantly fell in love with the film and connected with Shammiji. His style was natural and unique.

There is dignity in being a celebrity. Let us not lose that dignity.

The media should be ready to cover every event at the Oberois' residence. If Vivek's dog has dysentery tomorrow, we should be prepared to hear Vivek talk about it on camera for three hours.

My mother is special to me. She understands me. She has no expectations from me.

I'm petrified of facing the camera. Even to shoot for a photograph is an ordeal. But it's important to break free of your inhibitions at some point in your life.

I am not popular socially. I am uncomfortable around people.

I was always a flaky child.

Many people ask me why I chose to remake 'Devdas.' I wanted to make a film that celebrated grandeur and grace.

Of course, an Oscar nomination would have added considerably to the film's business abroad. But it has already made nearly Rs 150 crore. It has done stupendous business overseas. We did a business of Rs 80 crore when we took 'Devdas' to Cannes.

I think caring too much about the economics starts affecting the creative aspect of the film. That is a dangerous process for a filmmaker. He should make his film without having to worry about how much it has cost or how much it will be sold for.

Western music is alien to my ears.

You can do a formula film and walk the conventional path, but it may not work at all.

If you compromise in the casting it is bound to expose eventually.

Life is not only about dark nights; it's also about beautiful, sunshiny mornings.

With 'Guzaarish' I went through a catharsis.

Every time I read it, I realised 'Bajirao Mastani' must be made. It's such a powerful screenplay.

All the pain, suffering, love, passion, and conflict have made me what I am.