Author, poet, lyricist, screenwriter, film director, family man, and winner of every prestigious national and international award for his vast body of work—from the Jnanpith to the Oscar, there isn’t much territory left uncharted by Gulzar. Dhoop Aane Do, in a way, can be considered his autobiography in that it is replete with anecdotes, travel notes, real-life experiences and events that occurred in and shaped his life. The book contains pages plucked from his memories and will take the reader back in time, to his growing-up years, his personal and professional struggles and successes in Mumbai, the experiences he faced during Partition, the different people he met while making films, how the Covid lockdowns affected him, etc. There is poetry too, which underlines the versatility of the author. A deeply personal account made more interesting because of some rare photographs interspersed with the text, Dhoop Aane Do covers his life and career, traversing several eras, thus promising to bring to the reader several unknown facets of Gulzar. It will be an unmissable addition to the treasure trove of books by this literary and cinema legend.
I feel you will LOVE this memoir if you are a BIG BOLLYWOOD FAN like me!
I absolutely love the short chapters and the stories behind how music was composed. No, not in ANY way we imagine.
The maybe controversial ideas and the facts provided in the book totally took me off guard. In a good way! Cos I do not think I will ever come across them in any other way.
As much as the man we are reading about, we will know more about other legends who worked with him.
It’s the unexpected events that happened that will make you love the lyricist even more!
I enjoyed the book so much more than I had anticipated.
Review: Dhoop aane do (memoir) writer : Gulzar publisher : Amaryllis (imprint of Manjul publishing house total pages : 211
----------------- Gulzar is always my first love whenever I want to read something unique and soulful. His creative and innovative consciousness brings joy and sufiness, which sometimes heals me internally. "Dhoop Aane Do" is a rich and evocative memoir that offers a glimpse into the life and mind of Gulzar, one of India’s most celebrated authors, lyricists, poets, and filmmakers. A deeply personal narrative, the book weaves together anecdotes, reflections, and experiences from his journey—from his early years and the turmoil of Partition to his professional struggles and triumphs in Mumbai’s film industry. Gulzar takes readers on a journey through his life, touching on his encounters with iconic personalities, the challenges of his creative process, and his responses to contemporary events, including the impact of the Covid lockdowns.
The book is more than just a memoir; it’s an intimate exploration of Gulzar’s world, illustrated with rare photographs and his signature poetry, which underscores his versatility as an artist. "Dhoop Aane Do" is a window into the various phases of his life and career, traversing decades and revealing aspects of his personality and work that have rarely been shared before. In all the chapters of this book my personal favourites are "Meena Kumari", "the making of song", "women in films" & " Pancham" especially in the Pancham I love how gulzar and Pancham da bonded on song creation and magic of music. Yes there are some issues which do not resonate with your emotional core. This collection will be an invaluable addition to the library of any admirer of Gulzar’s literary and cinematic legacy.
Translated from Marathi to English, this latest offering on Gulzar shares few common anecdotes, some small detail and notes on people near and dear to him and bits and pieces of travel diary. Halfway to its journey, I am not happy with the content and the translated form here! There's nothing new or valuable compared to all other books already written on the legend. Co-titled 'pages plucked from memory' is just a misnomer, there are so many repetitive entries that are already translated and known by admirers of the legend. And few significant ones are just so rudimentary and fractional to ponder upon. There is so much loss in translation, especially in translation of poems and pen pictures! Almost an avoidable affair!
“Dhoop Aane Do” is a treasure trove of memories and emotions, where Gulzar sahab invites us into the intimate corridors of his life. The book, though it may start off a bit slow, gradually unfurls like a blooming flower, revealing layers of experiences that have shaped him as a poet, lyricist, and filmmaker.
Divided into concise chapters, each section captures pivotal moments from his life—moments that have left an indelible mark on his soul. From his early days navigating the film industry to the cherished bonds with his family, every chapter offers a glimpse into the man behind the legend.
What makes this autobiography stand out is the seamless intertwining of stories and poems. The narrative flows like a river, sometimes calm, sometimes turbulent, but always rich with emotion. The poems scattered throughout the book are not just add-ons but an essential part of the storytelling, reflecting his innermost feelings and thoughts.
Gulzar sahab’s words, whether in prose or poetry, have the power to transport you into his world—a world where every emotion is felt deeply, every memory cherished. “Dhoop Aane Do” is not just an autobiography; it’s a poetic journey through the life of a man who has given us countless unforgettable words and verses.
Dhoop Aane Do by Gulzar is a heartfelt journey through the life of a literary legend. This book, which can be seen as an autobiography, offers a deeply personal glimpse into the myriad experiences that shaped Gulzar’s life and career. From his early years and the struggles he faced in Mumbai to the profound impact of Partition and the Covid lockdowns, the book captures the essence of his journey.
Interwoven with poetry, Dhoop Aane Do reflects Gulzar’s trademark ability to convey complex emotions through simple yet evocative language. The inclusion of rare photographs adds another layer of intimacy, making the reader feel connected to the author. The book doesn’t just recount events; it invites readers into Gulzar’s world, offering a window into his thoughts, memories, and creative process.
Whether it’s his reflections on love, loss, or the everyday moments that define our lives, Gulzar’s introspective writing resonates deeply. The book is a treasure trove for those who admire his work, offering new insights into the man behind the words. For readers, Dhoop Aane Do is not just a book but an experience that lingers, prompting reflection long after the final page is turned.
"Dhoop Aane Do" by Gulzar offers a poetic and deeply personal journey through the renowned lyricist and filmmaker's life. The memoir is structured in short, evocative chapters, making it an engaging and reflective read. Gulzar's narrative interweaves his own story with glimpses of the legends he collaborated with, painting a vivid picture of Indian cinema and literature over the decades.
The book reveals lesser-known aspects of his personality and creative process, offering insights into the man behind the timeless poetry and stories. It feels like a conversation with Gulzar himself—intimate, thoughtful, and rich with wisdom. Through his words, the book not only chronicles his career but also encapsulates the essence of an era, making it a treasure trove for admirers of his work and those curious about the cultural icons he worked alongside.
The inclusion of poems enhances the emotional depth, making it both a memoir and a poetic journey, a dual experience of prose and verse. "Dhoop Aane Do" is a testament to Gulzar's artistry and humanity, leaving readers with a lingering sense of inspiration and admiration.
Dhoop Aane Do is a very deep collection of poetry that reflects the life of our favourite author Gulzar Sahaab himself. The book is a unique glimpse into his experiences and memories which will take us back in time to his childhood and years growing up with his struggles and successes both personal and professional. It also holds his memories from the time of Partition and covid as well among many others.
All the poems in the book have the deep ability to capture complex emotions and thoughts and that too in a very simple yet profound language. It adds an essential quality to the narrative by adding a personal perspective to the important events in India. We already know how Gulazar Sahaab conveys deep thoughts in a very straightforward yet impacting manner and this book is also filled with the same depth which makes it accessible to every reader.
Overall, a heartfelt read which celebrates the author's life and works while also offering valuable lessons on a wide range of themes.
I loved it and I think every Gulzar saahab's fan would like it. This about his thoughts and relationships with various people he met and all this interspersed with poems.
What I would have liked is if the author would have retained the Hindi poems and provided the translation...I feel that those poems in Hindi have their own feel which we can't get in English.
I feel like some of the essence is lost in translation. When it comes to the poems and prose, there's a lack of consistency; in the language they're quoted in, throughout the book.
"Immensely sweet, beautiful-this earth, We know, it's a lump of jaggery
Dangerous winds have descended; Let not worms feast on this earth, Move away, wait a while, Let light in
The sun will rise, and filter with its rays, The baneful winds"
"Dhoop Aane do" written by Gulzar saab is a collection of memorable incidents can also be considered as his autobiography. It is a beautiful recollection that shows poet's ability to blend simple but profound thoughts together. Gulzar is a known author, port, lyricist, screenwriter, film director and winner of national and international awads for his word.
This book "Dhoop Aane Do" (Let the Sunlight come in), is a direction towards hope and positivity, which reflect in every section of the book. As a reader, I felt deeply connected to the author on a personal level.Whether it is love, loss or just the simplicity of life, the words found a way to my heart. The introspective writing leaves the reader to ponder and you might find yourself coming back to the chapters again and again.