shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > Entertainment News > Bollywood News > Article > Benjamin Gilani has fond memories of Tom Alter during their time at FTII

Benjamin Gilani has fond memories of Tom Alter during their time at FTII

Updated on: 01 October,2017 11:35 AM IST  |  Mumbai
Benjamin Gilani |

Benjamin Gilani says that he and the late actor Tom Alter weren't just batchmates and shared a much stronger bond and camaraderie

Benjamin Gilani has fond memories of Tom Alter during their time at FTII


Tom and I. We weren't merely batchmates. I joined the FTII in July 1972, and Tom followed a few weeks later. We shared our love for theatre and films, Hindi and Western folk music -- Bob Dylan was a favourite -- and nature. We both hailed from the hills.
He was a fine sportsman; a cricketer, marathoner and basketball player. In fact, he had a passion for all things fine. The only thing he couldn't do was perhaps, play a musical instrument. But I couldn't lift a cricket bat, and so we called it even.


Tom was gifted with a wonderful sense of humour. He was never malicious, and it (wit) was never at the expense of someone else. He never abused anyone (although he was perfectly capable of saying a few things in Punjabi). With Tom around, there was never a dull moment. From banter, we would often veer towards serious discussions about work and the work of people from our field. But pulling someone down? That was not who Tom was.


We worked together in serials and theatre. Together with Naseeruddin Shah, we formed the theatre group, Motley. I don't use this word lightly when I say he was dedicated. He just wouldn't let up! I remember he was working in Shyam Benegal's 2014 television series, Samvidhaan, and most actors on set were using teleprompters. But when he was offered one, he politely declined, and still pulled off the scene with barely a retake. His discipline would have never allowed him to do that. It's just the way he prepared.

Urdu was special to Tom. He was always reciting Urdu poetry. And when I would ask him why he had to repeat a line thrice to get to the next one, he would say, 'Ben, tum nazaakat ko samjho, yaar!'

About four years ago, a growth on his right hand wouldn't go away. It became so troublesome that his thumb had to be amputated. But he had a dream to fulfill. And putting all the pain behind him, he took on the mammoth task of organising the Urdu theatre festival, Jashn-e-Maazi. Over 17 days, he staged 33 Urdu plays -- with two back-to-back shows on most days — of highly complex, historical content. Not every play ran to a packed house, but our generation is used to it. Tom never held back one ounce of energy for that.

It feels strange to talk about Tom in past tense. It feels like a limb has been chopped off. But Tom lived a full life. He had high standards, and his bar was only set for himself.

Benjamin Gilani is a film, television and theatre actor. Write to him at mailbag@mid-day.com

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK