Nandy-Merchant historic tie up

A strategic tie-up between Merchant Ivory Productions and Pritish Nandy Communications (PNC), resulted in a new film launch at Bombay's British Council Library yesterday.

It is the first time that the much-revered Sir V S Naipaul has agreed to let a book of his translate into a film. It is also the first time that Pritish Nandy has got involved at a producers' level in such a venture.

"It's new and exciting, and I like the idea tremendously," said Nandy.

The film Mystic Masseur, is based on Naipaul's 1957 book which speaks about the trials and tribulations of Indians in Trinidad.

The main protagonist, Ramsumari, will be essayed by Asif Mandvi. The cast also includes Om Puri and Ayesha Dharker.

Ramsumari is a writer who used his own mystical and therapeutic powers to reach the zenith of fame and fortune. Essentially a crooked character, he symbolises the eternal lust for wealth and fame, which escapes no man.

Along the way, he also gathers a lot of political clout, which is essential for these types.

The film will be shot, in large part, in Trinidad. The fillers will be shot in Oxford, UK, too.

Ismail Merchant, who was down for the announcement, was thrilled with the venture, which is by far one of the most prestigious ones to have been launched by his banner.

If it goes on schedule, the film should release by September next year, to coincide with the celebrations of Merchant-Ivory's 40 years of existence.