“I have always felt that Navketan was one of those production companies that has been ignored by cinema scholars, despite its longevity, its pedigree and the fine films it has made. I used it as an entry point to study Hindi cinema and its evolution in the post 1940s period: the post-independence black and white films, the glorious colour of the 60s, romance, relationship, the works. Besides, Navketan made some great films set in an urban setting at a time when filmmakers were still stuck on the idea of village-based stories. Think about their films — great stories, terrific music and songs, attractive women (Geeta Bali, Madhubala, Sheila Ramani, Kalpana Kartik, Waheeda Rehman, Zeenat Aman and Tina Munim). And most of all the company had the Anand brothers, the flamboyant Dev Anand and the directors Goldie and Chetan.

Its downfall
I have studied that in the book. There were many reasons: changing audience tastes, new stars and themes, a new India. The company did not bring in new blood to keep going. Besides, Vijay Anand left, wanting to become an actor and Dev Anand turned to direction. Together they were a great team, separated they couldn’t be as successful.

Dev Anand’s reaction
He was happy at the thought that someone was actually going to write about his company and his cinema. He is a man who is forever young and is delighted with new ideas. He freely shared his memories with me.”

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