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Flash Back: Style and substance

This weekly photo-column recounts how an old, special photograph of a celebrity was shot and this week it is about Jaishankar

Stills Ravi

Well, where do I start? He was possibly one of the most stylish actors we have ever had as evidenced by this photograph. He was someone who could carry off any costume with elan and it was such a joy to take his pictures. There isn't a day that goes by when I don't reminisce about those laughter-filled sets, which were the hallmark of Jaishankar films. As press photographers, we used to make a beeline to those locations just to not miss out on all the fun.

During those days, I remember how we photographers used to be invited by him to come and frequent the sets. After greeting us with a 'Hi', he would then guide us to a place where he would provide us with a luncheon out of the blue. He was one person who always made sure that each of us had our fill not just of photos but also of food. It was important to him that every person who ever visited the sets of his film ate to his heart's content.

One thing that I have to mention about Jaishankar sir is his willingness to go above and beyond to make sure a film sees the light of the day. I remember times when he used to get money from financiers and give it to producers to ensure that a film gets finished on time. I have never seen any other actor do something like that. No wonder he was such a favourite with all the producers.

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