Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, so strangely titled as many religious groups felt the original title Ram-Leela hurt their sentiments, was Sanjay Bhansali’s do-or-die effort to break free of all inhibitions.
Fabulous, flamboyant and exceedingly libidinous…This was Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s raunchy intense compassionate and playful take on Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet.
ALSO READ: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Recalls Padmaavat Controversy, Says ‘They Thought I Was Done But…’
Released on November 15, 2013 this exacerbated excursion into the heartland of passion and romance had the nation swooning in delight. This was Deepika Padukone’s fourth hit that year, and by far the choicest selection of the quartet. The film’s operatic tone and musical interpretation brought Bhansali back in the limelight after three failed films.
Looking back at the Ram-Leela experience Bhansali says, “Ram Leela came at a time when I wanted to break free from my inbuilt inhibitions. It is my most liberating work. Ranveer and Deepika were with me all the way. I don’t think I could have made the same film with any two other actors.”
SLB admits Ranveer was heavily influenced by Govinda in his performance. “It was definitely at the back of my mind, and the forefront of his performance.The songs too were designed in the Govinda mould.”
ALSO READ: Saawariya Turns 17: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Says ‘Wouldn’t Change Anything, Except…’ | EXCLUSIVE
Would SLB describe Ram-Leela as his most fun film? “I would say it was my least strenuous film. In spite of the film’s tragic ending there was no stress at all during the shooting.”
Would Shakespeare have approved of SLB’s Gujju interpretation of Romeo & Juliet? He would have certainly smiled.