Anything Goes : Lesson learnt by Sudhir Raikar

I interviewed K. Bikram Singh some time back on his notable film voyage. Naturally, the interview focused on his brilliant documentary on the legendary Satyajit Ray titled "Introspections" - undoubtedly, Singh's best work till date. He had a lot to share including some unpleasant experience with the maestro. This was sad news to me and I confirmed and re-confirmed whether he was okay with me publishing the bit. I was more interested in the documentary rather than the story around it but he seemed keen that I do so "why not? If I can tell it to you, I can tell it to the whole world" was his exact stance. So, the interview was published online and that I hear from him belatedly that it was great save for certain bits that were far from facts. Clearly, he had panicked to see his words etched in print. This was a case of developing cold feet after putting one's (best or worst?) foot forward. Being a disillusioned journalist unhappy with the shallow ways of mainstream fourth estate, I was shocked at his casual remark and gave him a piece of my mind (as gently as possible) - needless to say, there was no answer from the other side. My point is if a veteran 75 + artiste can indulge in such cowardice, what to talk of our younger lot? We are always concerned with the falling standards of journalism and rightly so, but we also need to see the murk on the other side. I respect K Bikram Singh for the fascinating documentary on Ray (it's available on YouTube) but wish he was more forthright. Here's my piece on K Bikram Singh: http://www.indiainfoline.com/Lifestyle/Art-Approach/The-Confirmed-Non-co...