Ashutosh Gowariker connects with fans on Twitter, Facebook

New Delhi, Aug 17 (IANS) Acclaimed Bollywood filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker will soon be connecting with his fans on social networking sites Twitter and Facebook to answer queries on his forthcoming film 'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey'.

The film is based on the Chittagong uprising of 1930.

The man behind films like 'Lagaan', 'Swades' and 'Jodhaa Akbar', will be answering queries on the sites starting this Saturday, and will do so every subsequent Saturday.

The time will be announced Friday. The aim will be that even non-resident Indian fans are involved in the effort, said a source close to Gowariker.

Gowariker chose to announce the initiative on India's 64th Independence Day Sunday.

'Hi everyone, this is Ashutosh Gowariker wishing you a great 63rd year of Independence! What better moment to tell you more about Surya Sen - the man who planned the Chittagong uprising of 1930 - the greatest revolutionary uprising against the British empire in India's history,' he posted on Twitter.

He went on to describe freedom fighter Surya Sen, whose role is being essayed by Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan in the movie.

'As the leader of the Indian Republican Army, he commanded respect from other revolutionary compatriots and teenagers alike. A school teacher by profession, Surya Sen was an inspiration to his students, so much so that the moniker 'masterda' is attached to him to this day,' he said.

'He instilled an uncompromising desire for freedom and antipathy to British rule among all those he recruited. His own commitment to the revolution was absolute. He sacrificed his life, chose not to love or have a family so he could dedicate himself to the revolution,' Gowariker added.

The 46-year-old says he has been following the response to all updates on the official Twitter page of the film - KHJJS.

'...I wish to keep you updated more often with all the developments on the film. Connect with you soon,' he posted.

A similar message went out from him on the official page of the film on Facebook.

'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey', releasing Dec 3, will also feature actress Deepika Padukone as the revolutionary Kalpana Dutt.

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Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey