Actor Paresh Rawal on why he is opposed to remakes

1. Why are you so opposed to remakes?
Paresh Rawal: Most times the films are mutilated and spoilt, the original content is lost, the magic is gone. Unless a filmmaker can avoid doing that, I don’t think he should attempt a remake.

2. But you are starring in ‘Bhool Bhulaiya’, a remake of a Malyalam film!
Paresh Rawal: I don’t think remakes should be made at all, unless it is made by the original director. ‘Bhool Bhulaiya’ is a remake of the Malyalam hit ‘Manichitratazhu’, of which Priyadarshan was originally a part of. He has now directed the remake.

3. Any particular classics you think should never be remade?
Paresh Rawal: Yes — ‘Guide’, ‘Ganga Jamuna’ and ‘Mughal-E-Azam’. It is my fervent appeal to filmmakers not to touch these three films atleast.

4. But why?
Paresh Rawal: I think these are the three films that truly represent Indian culture and ethos. They are true classics which each and every Indian cherishes. They should remain as they are.

5. Have you watched any recent remakes? ‘Umrao Jaan’, RGV’s ‘Aag’?
Paresh Rawal: Yes, I have. What can I say? I cannot stop anyone from exercising their creative freedom. I have watched these films, but I would not like to say anything more.