My journey is one of consistent learning and exploration – Padma Shri Muzaffar Ali

Padma Shri Muzaffar Ali, the celebrated filmmaker, painter, and poet, continues to capture the spotlight in 2024 with his artistic endeavors and literary contributions. Known for his timeless classics like Umrao Jaan and his distinct artistic sensibilities, Ali has been making waves through exhibitions of his paintings and the release of a new book that delves into his multifaceted creative journey.

A Symphony of Arts

Ali's recent art exhibition, hosted at a prominent gallery, showcased his unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. His paintings, often inspired by Awadhi culture and Sufism, reflect themes of spirituality, human emotions, and the timeless beauty of heritage. Art critics have lauded his ability to bridge the past and present, making his works resonate with a global audience.

Literary Brilliance

Ali has also unveiled a memoir that takes readers on an intimate journey through his life and artistic pursuits. The book offers a deep dive into his experiences in cinema, his love for Lucknow’s culture, and his profound connection with poetry and painting. Through anecdotes, philosophical musings, and striking visuals, the book celebrates his versatility and artistic philosophy.

Reviving Awadhi Culture

His efforts to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Awadh remain steadfast. Whether through cultural festivals or his work with the Rumi Foundation, he continues to champion the traditions of music, dance, and storytelling that define the region. His recent curation of an event blending Awadhi culinary arts, music, and poetry received widespread acclaim.

At 80, Muzaffar Ali remains a beacon of artistic brilliance. His contributions to art, literature, and cultural preservation inspire new generations, ensuring his legacy continues to shine. He speaks to City Essence. EXCERPTS

What makes you proud of your work, especially in the art and literary space? Could you tell us a little about your latest works?

Art evolves with time, mirroring the growth of both the artist and their audience. My journey from Gaman to Umrao Jaan and now the revival of Zooni has been one of consistent learning and exploration. I’m deeply proud of how my artistic and cinematic expressions now intersect—my viewers have begun to see my films as paintings and my canvases as films. This phenomenon excites me deeply, as it blurs the lines between art forms, bringing science, imagination, and emotion into harmony.

Any plan of turning Zikr into a full fledged film? Who would you want to play your character ?

Zikr has the potential to transform into a profound cinematic experience, perhaps even as a biopic. It is the springboard for future films. As for who could portray me, it’s less about resemblance and more about someone who could embody the passion and creative spirit behind my work.

Performing arts and expression seem to be at an interesting crossroad. When you said at a city event recently - use Lucknow as a muse, what did you mean?

Lucknow, with its layers of beauty and contradictions, has always been my muse. When I spoke of “using Lucknow as a muse,” I meant drawing inspiration from its poetic legacy, its cultural elegance, and even its struggles. It’s a city that challenges an artist to separate beauty from chaos and find meaning in both.

Given the massive change in facade of Lucknow as a modern city, what is your vision of a futuristic Lucknow?

A futuristic Lucknow must honor its poetic soul. It should serve as a sanctuary for both dreamers and strugglers—a place where rural youth, global visitors, and local residents can coexist in harmony. It should reflect the timeless spirit of Umrao Jaan while addressing the present challenges of migration and modernization.

In real life, you are an artist, filmmaker, sculptor, poet, designer and illustrator, how do you manage to do justice to this repertoire? In short what keeps you ticking ?

Art forms are interconnected. One inspires the other, enabling me to explore intangible ideas across different media. My roadmap, as laid out in Zikr, emphasizes nurturing youth, helping them discover their artistic potential. Their hope and love inspire me to keep creating.

What was your association like with respected auteur Satyajit Ray, while you were working with him at Clarion McCann where he was on the board? Your memories of him and how big an influence has he been on your life ?

Satyajit Ray was a guiding light. He helped me appreciate the cultural richness of Lucknow and Awadh through the lens of my village Kotwara. His vision reinforced my belief in the universality of beauty, a concept central to my Sufi perspective.

As a Padma Shri awardee, what was the feeling when you got one of India’s most coveted honours?

Receiving the Padma Shri in 2005 was a moment of gratitude—a recognition of my artistic contributions by a sensitive and thoughtful audience.

Your nuanced dealing of art and fashion is evident in films like Anjuman, Jaanisaar and Umrao Jaan? Why do you think art and fashion are important in making a film larger than life ?

Fashion is integral to storytelling in cinema. It connects timelines and conveys character arcs. Films like Umrao Jaan and Anjuman demonstrate my passion for using textiles as a narrative tool, preserving craft traditions while enriching the cinematic experience.

In recent months, you have made news public that Zooni will be revived, Salman Rushdie’s book ban has been lifted, what according to you is driving this change in outlook?

The decision to revive Zooni comes from a recognition of its relevance today. Films should challenge extremism, offer hope, and inspire dialogue. The easing of bans like that on Salman Rushdie’s works signals a broader cultural shift. Zooni will reflect this shift, created with fresh perspectives.

In 2001 you started the Jahaan – e – Khusrau Festival, you also gave shape to the label ‘Kotwara’, you have a liking for horses ( equines )? What egged your inclination towards these special facets about your life?

Jahan-e-Khusrau emerged as a response to extremism, celebrating Sufi art and thought. Kotwara, my fashion label, is a return to my roots and an expression of sustainability through craft. Horses, my lifelong muses, connect my artistic journey from Kashmir to Kotwara.

What makes Lucknow that perfect muse for any top notch Bollywood Director ?

Lucknow’s allure lies in its unique blend of cultural heritage, architectural     beauty, and cinematic appeal. Whether it’s the setting, the stories, or even logistical incentives, the city continues to captivate filmmakers.

For Umrao Jaan, your choice back then was Asha Bhonsle over Lata Mangeshkar, who according to you fits that frame among the current crop of woman playback singers? Why?

The choice of Asha Bhonsle for Umrao Jaan was inspired by her ability to adapt and surprise. Among contemporary voices, Shreya Ghoshal’s versatility is remarkable, as seen in Jaanisaar. Great music is born when egos dissolve in collaboration.

Where do you see parallel cinema heading in India ?

Parallel cinema is in flux. Technology has empowered creators, allowing for innovative storytelling, but the heart remains the ultimate storyteller. The balance between man and machine is crucial for the survival of meaningful cinema.

Beyond Commercial Cinema, your message to young filmmakers who aspire to make serious offbeat films?

Stay true to your vision. Use technology as a tool, but let your heart guide your storytelling. Art, at its core, must move people—it’s the emotional connection that defines success in any creative endeavor.