'Am I a phenomenon,' asks Dev Anand

Six eventful decades in the Hindi film industry as a star and filmmaker, and his enduring romance with the movies continues unabated, Dev Anand���s movie milestones include Taxi Driver, Guide, Jewel Thief and Hare Rama Hare Krishna among many others.
With his studied mannerism and loping gait, often likened to Gregory Peck, Dev Anand was certainly the most stylish hero of Hindi cinema.But it���s the incorrigible optimist and the ability to bash on regardless at 86, that leaves you disarmed.
Mention Navketan... and as if on cue, and without a token gesture to modesty, the cool face of Hindi cinema, Dev Anand declares, ���The world knows it is 60 years of my production company and we are planning a huge celebration. Tell me, is there another company that has made films for 60 years?��� Then, in a swift change of topic, he tactfully cuts to his current preoccupation and says, ���My next film, Chargesheet is a murder mystery that���s thrilling, and suspenseful.��� And as if affirming views on his indefatigable spirit, he adds, ���I���m totally preoccupied with the making of this film which I have written, directed and acted in.���
Anand is perhaps the only superstar, his age (and of his time), who is still actively involved in filmmaking. What���s the secret behind Dev Anand the phenomenon? Tossing the question back, he asks, ���Do you think Dev Anand is a phenomenon? Well, if you think so, it���s only because of my complete involvement with movies.��� And elaborating on the lifeblood of his existence he says, ���For me, there���s no deviating from films. I work relentlessly and creatively, and grow with every film. I act, script, direct and keep introducing new talent.���
For fans of Hindi cinema, apart from his charisma and inimitable style, Dev Anand and Navketan have also been synonymous with some unforgettable melodies of legendary music directors like Jaidev and SD Burman. Music has been an intrinsic part of the success and romance of his films. ���Yes, apart from the movie itself, I work very hard on the music primarily because people want good music. Besides, I also introduce new musical talent in my films. And adds with great pride, ���This requires one to be bold and courageous.���
So, here���s how Dev Saab a living legend of Hindi cinema moves on undeterred, and like the song from his film Hum Dono puts it, ���mein zindagi ka saath nibhata chala gaya...��� he is in no hurry to hang his boots.