'I hope that an Indian makes it to the Oscars with a desi film'

As the entire nation revels, following the stupendous success of Slumdog Millionaire at the Oscars, those associated with the film are also enjoying the moment. Debarati Palit speaks to an ecstatic art director Nitin Desai, who designed the sets of Kaun Banega Corepati and Taj Mahal in the film

As the entire nation revels, following the stupendous success of Slumdog Millionaire at the Oscars, those associated with the film are also enjoying the moment.
Debarati Palit speaks to an ecstatic art director Nitin Desai, who designed the sets of Kaun Banega Corepati and Taj Mahal in the film

well set: The set at which 'Kaun Banega Crorepati?' was shot in the film was designed by (right) Nitin Desai. Pic/Anil Naik

How do you see the success of Slumdog Millionaire at the Oscars?
I'm happy that the film did well at the Oscars. However, I'm more content by the fact that two technicians from Bollywood (A R Rahman and Resul Pookutty) have brought glory to the country.
Now, Indian technicians are being recognised and appreciated all across the globe. I have worked with Rahman and Pookutty in several films and they are simply superb. Now, I just hope that an Indian director makes it to the Oscars with a hardcore desi film.

How was it working with Danny Boyle?
Danny was always ready with the storyboards. He knew exactly what he wanted. This is something lacking in those associated with the Hindi film industry.
Danny was a source of motivation for us. I have always seen him working on something or the other on his laptop. Besides, I liked his gesture of taking the slum kids to the Oscars.

But there are several people who have criticised the film...
Criticism is part and parcel of the film industry and one has to face it. However, what's astonishing is the fact that no one spoke against the film when it released. People started criticising it only after it was nominated for awards.
I feel that one shouldn't indulge into disparagement and should be happy for the technicians who have gained recognition for their work.

You have worked on many international projects but didn't the success of Slumdog Millionaire raise your stature?
Frankly, it hasn't made much of a difference to me as I am already working on some big budget internal projects, which include a film with Michael Douglas called Palace on Wheels, and another French film.
But after working in Slumdog Millionaire, I have definitely realised the importance of pre-production. And if one wants to make world-class cinema, then he'll have to work on these areas. So right now, I'm implementing it on a Marathi serial, which is being made on the life of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.