Subhash Ghai floats 'Taal 2' idea, recalls Roger Ebert's praise for original
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai has publicly floated the idea of producing a sequel to his iconic 1999 romantic musical 'Taal', asking fans directly whether they would welcome a 'Taal 2' featuring a fresh cast and a young director. The query, posted on his Instagram account, has reignited conversation around one of Bollywood's most beloved films of the late 1990s.
Ghai's Instagram Post and the Fan Question
In his post, Ghai wrote: 'Do u want me to produce TAAL2 with other young talented director new cast in india ?' The filmmaker did not name any actors or directors for the proposed project, keeping the announcement deliberately open-ended. The post quickly drew responses from fans and film enthusiasts who retain a deep affection for the original.
Roger Ebert's Praise — The Compliment Ghai Treasures Most
Alongside the sequel query, Ghai revisited what he described as the greatest compliment 'Taal' ever received. He recalled a 2005 screening of the film at EbertFest in Chicago, where the late Hollywood critic Roger Ebert — widely regarded as one of the most influential film critics in American cinema history — praised the film in his review.
Ghai quoted Ebert's assessment in his post: Ebert had praised the film's 'pure entertainment' and 'innocence', noting that it captured a joyful, classic Hollywood-style musical spirit that he felt had largely disappeared from American cinema at the time. Ebert was reportedly particularly taken by the music, the choreography, and the performances of Aishwarya Rai and the rest of the cast. Ghai added: 'Felt blessed.'
About the Original 'Taal'
Released in 1999, 'Taal' starred Aishwarya Rai and Akshaye Khanna in the lead roles, with Anil Kapoor, Amrish Puri, and Alok Nath in significant supporting parts. The film's music, composed by Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman, remains a touchstone for Indian music lovers more than two decades on. 'Taal' was a major commercial and critical success, and its soundtrack is still considered among Rahman's finest work.
What a Sequel Could Mean
Ghai's proposal — if it moves beyond social media speculation — would mark his return to a franchise rooted in music-driven romance, a genre that has seen renewed audience appetite with films such as 'Aashiqui 2' and 'Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar'. Notably, Ghai has indicated he envisions a completely new cast and a younger directorial voice, suggesting the sequel would stand on its own rather than serve as a direct continuation. No production timeline or studio attachment has been announced.