Anurag Basu

Sure, it has been said before. But if I had to pick heaven on earth, it would definitely be Kashmir. I always look for excuses to go there. If I am fed up of the heat, it is my first choice for a short break. I have been in love with the place since I read about it in Satyajit Ray’s memoirs and saw Kashmir Ki Kali. I haven’t been fortunate enough to shoot a film there but our industry does have a special connection with Kashmir. I wish I could say I made Kashmir Ki Kali. Look at the place — at every turn there’s a frame! Point your camera anywhere and you have a wonderful picture. There is romance, poetry and piety in the air. You don’t really need to storyboard your shots — they look gorgeous anyway. It is just so pristine and has this calming effect on you. Give me a free ticket to the Alps, the Bahamas, anywhere, and I would still choose Kashmir.

(As told to Aarti Kapur Singh)