ABOUT THE FILM

October 2^nd is the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, who during his lifetime made a significant mark in the fight for freedom during British Raj – and eventually as the 2^nd Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy.

The film “A Hero of War & Peace” documents, in a very interesting & gripping cinematic presentation utilising diverse forms of visual & performing arts, the life and times of Bharat Ratna Lal Bahadur Shastri through in-depth research of various available records combined with comprehensive interviews with his family members. A dream child of Mr. Aubrey Aloysius, the Live Action Feature Film follows the former Prime Minister’s life right from his birth on 2^nd October 1904 in Varanasi District until his death in Tashkent on 11^th January 1966. The story takes you through the life and character formation of a fatherless boy born on the banks of the River Ganga, who through sincerity, dedication and high character emerged out of the dungeons of poverty to steadily rise and occupy one of the highest positions in India. He was born poor. Did he die poor? He did not leave behind any money or land for his family. Instead he left a rich inheritance and legacy of honesty! Not just for his immediate family members, but for his larger family – the nation of India, and to the world at large. An exemplary citizen who became an inspiring leader worthy of our honour!

Times-of-India-2Oct2016-Advt-of-Govt-of-India

Source: SUNDAY TIMES OF INDIA, NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 2, 2016 – page 19 / 27

WHY MAKE THE FILM

This project has been envisioned by Mr. Aubrey Aloysius, founder of the Lorraine Music Academy and the LAMP Trust (a Foundation to promote Nation Building through responsible citizenship utilising music and the arts). His patriotism and love for the country compelled him to bring Lal Bahadur Shastri back to life through reel and into the eyes of the public – a story he believes will motivate every citizen of India and people across the globe. This film will be an inspiration to any human being, no matter how poor or resourceless or wealthy or influential, to stick to the high moral path of truth, honesty, humility, integrity, diligence & hard work in order to make a positive contribution to society as a responsible citizen.

Shastriji served India in its darkest hours as a responsible citizen, making immense personal sacrifices for our nation in the process, the fruits of which we now enjoy in this generation. The objective of this project is to enlighten the youth about his contribution to our freedom, enabling the audience to value the privilege of being an Indian citizen. In addition to teaching the Indian youth the morals and values of our Prime Minister, the film also aims at touching some fascinating themes in the life and times of Shastriji. The movie aims to bring to limelight the positive journey and impact of his life and highlight his achievements. Lal Bahadur Shastri is perhaps one of the rarest public figures, who remained blameless both in public and private life, and whose entire life drew no controversy. The only controversy that emerged was after his death, which still remains a mystery.

Aubrey Aloysius, while making this film, interviewed every living member of the Shastri family with the purpose of gaining solicited information and deep insight into the life of this great man. The stories that he heard during the last 3 years are motivating, inspiring and tear inducing at the same time.

FACTS: (Did You know…?)

When Lal Bahadur was three months old, he slipped out of his mother‘s arms into a cowherd’s basket at the Ghats of the Ganges. The cowherd, who had no children, took the child as a gift from God and took him home. Lal Bahadur’s parents lodged a complaint / FIR with the police, who traced the child. The cowherd unwillingly returned him to his parents.
“Even as a child, when he did not have money, he would not take favour from a boatman. He would rather swim across the river. He did not want to compromise on his self respect.” – Shri Anil Shastri, son of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri
“Because he did not have money for ferry fare as a schoolboy, Lal Bahadur Shastri swam the Ganges twice a day with his books tied atop his head.” - The New York Times
The “Kashi Vidyapith” was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in Benares as a national institution of higher education on 10 February 1921. Among the first students of the new institution, Lal Bahadur graduated with a first-class degree in philosophy and ethics from the Vidyapith in 1925. He was given the title “SHASTRI” ("scholar"). The title was a bachelor’s degree awarded by the Vidyapith, but it stuck as part of his name.
In 1927, Lal Bahadur Shastri got married to Lalita Devi who came from Mirzapur, near his home town. The marriage ceremony was traditional and very simple. Shastri ji only accepted a Charkha (spinning wheel) and a few yards of Khadi (handspun cloth) in dowry. The bridegroom would accept nothing more!
After India’s Independence in 1947, Lal Bahadur Shastri was appointed as Minister of Police & Transport in Uttar Pradesh. He never allowed the police to resort to lathi charge and firing. He was the first person to order the use of jets of water to disperse unruly crowds. Though there were many strikes in Uttar Pradesh when he was in office, there was not a single occasion when people shouted slogans against him.
Lal Bahadur Shastri was the 2nd Prime Minister of Independent India
During the 2nd Non-Aligned Nations Summit Conference in Cairo, as his first important international appearance representing India, Shastriji laid significant impetus on peace and showcased how his leadership could continue to be a driving force towards peace in the world.
His role in improving relationships with Ceylon after extending talks with the country’s Prime Minister also acts as a feather in his hat of achievements as leader to the nation.

ABOUT THE FILM

Inspiring Quote…

WHY MAKE THE FILM

FACTS: (Did You know…?)

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A Hero Of War & Peace

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