L.V. Prasad, a man who lived and breathed cinema
Right from the early days L.V.Prasad was driven by the passion
for acting and the moving image. He used to take part in the local touring
theatres in small roles. He never missed
an opportunity to see whatever old and damaged rolls of films that were
shown in those days in ramshackle tents. This passion is what took him
to Bombay in his quest for cinematic glory. This passion is what made
him endure untold hardship in his long road to the heights of glory. His
journey to fame was full of potholes and downfalls, but he always managed
to find a bright spot. The many disappointed journeys he made between
his native village, Bombay and Madras in search of a job or a better life
could have left anyone depressed, but not L.V.Prasad. Undaunted he strove
to fulfill his passion for cinema. In the mid fifties when he was suffering
from a bout of sciatica, his passion for cinema made him ignore the advice
for rest and went about his duties. In fact it was after this that L.V.Prasad
went on to produce almost all his
films.
Says
Shavukar Janaki, who was introduced by L.V.Prasad in the film Shavukar
One film with him puts an artiste into the mould and one should
be lucky to get an assignment to work with him.
B.Nagi Reddy another veteran of the south Indian Film industry remarked
to me Prasad is a veritable Shantaram of the South, for Prasad breathes
cinema and has been in it as a loyal and committed worker who has seen
it grow to these heights.
Shivaji Ganesan who acted in Manohara under the direction of L.V.Prasad
wrote about him in a magazine in 1983 thus L.V.Prasads journey
into the world of cinema which began in the silent era, continues till
date. For him work has been paramount. Today, when he is over 75 years
old, it is amazing to see him so very active. Whether it is seeing a film
or offering criticism he is a match to anyone years younger. There are
many experiences that I treasure from those years of working with him.
Prasad would usually act and show the actor how he is expected to do his
role. In fact one would become his fan by seeing this kind of tuition.
T.Prakash rao who was an assistant to L.V.Prasad and later became a popular
director said he was an expert as far as technical knowledge was
concerned. In fact I would not hesitate to say that there is a Prasad
School of direction - all his assistants including myself have followed
this path set by Prasad.
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