In a blend of spirituality and tradition that is emblematic of India’s cultural fabric, actor Vikrant Massey experienced the serene grandeur of the Ganga Aarti, a ritualistic offering to the River Ganges, in the ancient city of Varanasi. The ceremony, a beautiful confluence of chants, fire, and rhythm, was also graced by the presence of revered spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravishankar.
Vikrant Massey, who is awaiting the release of his upcoming feature ‘The Sabarmati Report’, opted to immerse himself in the spiritual essence of Varanasi, a city he calls his second home. Visiting the city isn’t a new experience for Massey, who has been a recurrent visitor for a decade. “It’s like my second home, this is not my first time in Varanasi. I’ve been coming here for 10 years now,” he told the news agency ANI.
The Ganga Aarti, an evocative ritual that is performed daily at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, is a spectacle that attracts not only locals but also tourists and dignitaries from around the globe. On this occasion, Massey, donning traditional attire of white kurta pyjama, embraced the ritual, which was also captured on camera and shared social media.
During his visit, Massey spoke on significant matters concerning the nation’s progress, aligning his thoughts with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India. He referred to the initiative ‘Viksit Bharat’, expressing the importance of it materializing despite the delays. “It’s been quite late but it is finally happening. We all have to make a Viksit Bharat and move forward and unite to become Atmanirbhar (self-reliant). Everyone should go and vote and exercise their right,” he articulated. The term ‘Viksit Bharat’ envisions India as a developed nation by the year 2047, coinciding with the centenary of Indian independence, a goal fervently endorsed by PM Modi who frequently emphasizes the need for self-reliance.
In the backdrop of his spiritual journey, there is also the anticipation of Massey’s professional endeavor with ‘The Sabarmati Report’ awaiting its release. The film, which navigates the corridors of journalism, casts Massey in the role of vernacular journalist Samar Kumar. Alongside him are significant performances by Raashii Khanna and Ridhi Dogra. It’s a socio-political drama that delves deep into the intricacies of reported narratives.
Originally scheduled for a May 2024 release, the film will instead see its opening in cinemas on August 2nd. Taking to Instagram earlier this week, Massey announced the revised date with palpable excitement: “Re-opening files of The Sabarmati Report, in cinemas on 2nd August!”
The movie is under the directorial baton of Ranjan Chandel and is backed by producers Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Amul V Mohan, and Anshul Mohan. The alteration in release date of ‘The Sabarmati Report’ is an example of the shifting sands in the film industry where strategic planning is key to ensuring a film’s success upon its arrival in cinemas.
Negotiating the spheres of spiritual fulfillment and the ever-demanding world of cinema, Massey finds a tranquil balance during his time at Varanasi’s Ganga Aarti. This visit and his forthcoming film are echoes of an India that is deeply rooted in its traditions, yet constantly moving towards a future pregnant with potential.
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