Manjunath: Winning hearts in India

Manjunath, a biopic by Sandeep Varma has captured the hearts of viewers on the street. The film revolves around the life of a whistle-blower who revolted against the oil mafia and stood up for what he believed was right. For this, he was brutally murdered in Uttar Pradesh in 2005. The film's gripping background score and music have been composed by rock band, Parikrama members - Nitin, Sonam and Subir. This is the first time ever that they have come together and dedicated their full support to a Bollywood film.

Says Subir Malik, "We have been closely connected to IIM-Lucknow since we performed there many times. We had also followed Manjunath's story and when Sandeep Varma approached us, offering total creative freedom to compose the music for this film, we could not say no. We said no to Bollywood for 22 years, but gave a whole-hearted yes to Manjunath in 2 hours."

Piyush Abhay Singh, a friend of the Parikrama members from Lucknow has chosen to make a difference in his own way. Hailing from Lucknow, he has invested his efforts towards making sure people see the film. He decided to arrange for a free screening for 30 people in Lucknow, but the number increased when people saw the belief and conviction he had for Manjunath's story. His team spent hours post work, to go to schools, colleges and eating joints to promote the film. They also spoke to people at gatherings about the movie and garnered their support.

"I somehow felt that this film should reach out to many, because in a country like India which is so diverse, with so many emotional deterrents, it was quite possible for Manjunath's voice to get lost. The irony is a simple fact that we were talking about the guy who chose not to shut up and battled against the oil mafia and paid for it with his life", says Piyush.

He will be taking 100 people for a free screening at Fun Cinemas at 11am on 10th of May.

"I decided to give in my best because there is a lot to learn from Manjunath. We are now aware that our duties are not limited to just casting votes, but so much more. We have to fight every day for our country in our own way no matter how small. It is about standing up for what is right and moreover, knowing what is right. That is what Manjunath's story is all about," he emphasizes.