Not many people are good at making a politically sensitive film without glitter. Jabbar Patel is one of few filmmakers who have achieved this and he has done it many times. Umbartha, Simhasan and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar are few fine examples. Apart from films, he has done some incredible work in theatre as well. His play by Vijay Tendulkar - Ghashiram Kotwal – is considered to be one of the finest in Marathi Theatre.
Born and brought up in Maharashtra, he was a pediatrician. His interest in theatre led him to establish an experimental theatre group Theatre Academy. One of his most popular and acclaimed play was Ghashiram Kotwal which was first staged in 1973. It established him as one of the big names in Marathi theatre. He followed it with Teen Paishacha Tamasha in 1974.
Theatre was not able to contain his ability to visualize spectacle. He stepped up to make films. In 1974 he made Samna. Cast boasted of reputed names like Mohan Agashe, Shreeram Lagoo and Smita Patil. He repeated them in many other films as well like Jait Re Jait, Umbartha, Simhasan etc. In 1995, he was awarded Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration for feature Mukta.
Year 1998, biggest film of his career came. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar based on illustrious life of Dalit leader and founder of Indian constitution. Backed by national authorities and NFDC, the film starred Malayalam superstar Mammootty who came up with performance of a lifetime. The film raised eyebrows of certain sections but protests were subdued. Film won many national awards and lifelong acclaim for Dr. Jabbar Patel.
Written By: Sujoy Ghosh
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