Jump to content

Mohan Deep: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Content deleted Content added
F.Balsara (talk | contribs)
No edit summary
Italics for book titles, not bold. Wikipedia is not a reference for Wikipedia MInor fixes
Line 1: Line 1:
{{AFC submission|d|reason|3=Thanks for submitting the article. But, there are few issues which need to be fixed 1) Tone: tone of a good part of this article is not encyclopedic, see [[WP:YFA|your first article]], [[WP:NPOV]] 2) remove all external links from article body 3)Please add more [[WP:RS|citations]] where the subject or topics related to the subject is discussed in details. See below, there are some links from where you can ''Find sources''. If you have any question or comment you can post at my talk page clicking [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=User_talk:Titodutta&action=edit&section=new here]. That's all for now. Good wishes. {{Smiley}} |declinets=20130321113932|decliner=Titodutta|ts=20130321100752|u=F.Balsara|ns=5}}
{{AFC submission|d|reason|3=Thanks for submitting the article. But, there are few issues which need to be fixed 1) Tone: tone of a good part of this article is not encyclopedic, see [[WP:YFA|your first article]], [[WP:NPOV]] 2) remove all external links from article body 3)Please add more [[WP:RS|citations]] where the subject or topics related to the subject is discussed in details. See below, there are some links from where you can ''Find sources''. If you have any question or comment you can post at my talk page clicking [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=User_talk:Titodutta&action=edit&section=new here]. That's all for now. Good wishes. {{Smiley}} |declinets=20130321113932|decliner=Titodutta|ts=20130321100752|u=F.Balsara|ns=5}}
[[File:MD low res.jpg|thumb|Mohan Deep, Writer and Feng Shui Master]]
[[File:MD low res.jpg|thumb|Mohan Deep, Writer and Feng Shui Master]]
Mohan Kishinchand Chandirramani (20th April 1948), better known as '''Mohan Deep''', is an Indian author, painter and Feng Shui Master.
'''Mohan Kishinchand Chandirramani''' (20 April 1948), better known as '''Mohan Deep''', is an Indian author, painter and feng shui master.
Mohan Deep is the author of ''‘The Mystery and Mystique of Madhubala’'' (1996), ''‘It’s My Life’'' (Novel) (1997), ''‘Simply Scandalous: Meena Kumari’'' (1998), ''‘Eurekha! – an unauthorized biography of Rekha''. (1999), ''‘Four Options’'' (2000), ''‘Feng Shui for the Bold & Beautiful, the Rich and Famous’'' (2001) and ''‘Nehru and the Tantrik Woman’'' (2002)
Mohan Deep is the author of ''The Mystery and Mystique of Madhubala'' (1996), ''It's My Life'' (Novel) (1997), ''Simply Scandalous: Meena Kumari'' (1998), ''Eurekha! – an unauthorized biography of Rekha''. (1999), ''Four Options'' (2000), ''Feng Shui for the Bold and Beautiful, the Rich and Famous'' (2001) and ''Nehru and the Tantrik Woman'' (2002)
After a sabbatical of a decade, during which he touched the life of people as a Feng Shui Master, he is back with ''The Five Foolish Virgins'', a book of fiction, to be launched in April 2013.
After a sabbatical of a decade, during which he touched the life of people as a Feng Shui Master, he is back with ''The Five Foolish Virgins'', a book of fiction, to be launched in April 2013.
Mohan Deep is known for what are described as 'unauthorized biographies of Bollywood stars'.
Mohan Deep is known for what are described as 'unauthorized biographies of Bollywood stars'.
While Khushwant Singh, one of the most popular columnist-journalist and former editor of 'Illustrated Weekly of India' called him 'a truly gifted gossip writer'], poetess-columnist Tara Patel described him as a maverick writer <ref>{{cite journal|last=Patel|first=Tara|title=Maverick Writer|journal=Afternoon on Sunday|year=1998|issue=17th May 1998|page=6}}</ref> , Behram Contractor referred to him as William Goldman of Bollywood’s stars <ref>{{cite journal|last=Contractor|first=Behram|title=Eurekha|journal=Afternoon Despatch & Courier|date=6.4.1998|year=1998|month=April}}</ref> and Rajiv. K. Bajaj, the editor of 'The Daily' labelled him Kitty Kelly of India<ref>{{cite journal|=The Daily|last=Bajaj|first=RK|title=Deep Sells|year=1996|month=Jan}}</ref> .
While Khushwant Singh, one of the most popular columnist-journalist and former editor of 'Illustrated Weekly of India' called him 'a truly gifted gossip writer'], poetess-columnist Tara Patel described him as a maverick writer <ref>{{cite journal|last=Patel|first=Tara|title=Maverick Writer|journal=Afternoon on Sunday|year=1998|issue=17th May 1998|page=6}}</ref> , Behram Contractor referred to him as William Goldman of Bollywood’s stars <ref>{{cite journal|last=Contractor|first=Behram|title=Eurekha|journal=Afternoon Despatch & Courier|date=6.4.1998|year=1998|month=April}}</ref> and Rajiv. K. Bajaj, the editor of 'The Daily' labelled him Kitty Kelly of India<ref>{{cite journal|=The Daily|last=Bajaj|first=RK|title=Deep Sells|year=1996|month=Jan}}</ref> .
All his books are cntroversial.
It is interesting to note that every book he wrote invited controversies for its bold content.


== Bollywood biographies ==

== The first biography - ''Madhubala'' (1996) ==
== Bollywood Biographies ==

== The first biography - '''Madhubala''' (1996) ==
Film star, TV's number one stand up anchor [[Shekhar_Suman |Shekhar Suman]] said at the launch of 'Eurekha' that "Controversy is Mohan Deep's middle name!" <ref>{{cite journal|last=Mohan|first=Kumar|title=Party Repartee|journal=Complete Cinema|date=25.12.1998|year=1998|month=April|page=5}}</ref> . India premier society magazine 'Society' described him as "A man with million controversies in his beard"<ref>{{cite journal|title=Champgne Shots|journal=Society (Magna Publishers)|year=1998|month=May}}</ref>.
Film star, TV's number one stand up anchor [[Shekhar_Suman |Shekhar Suman]] said at the launch of 'Eurekha' that "Controversy is Mohan Deep's middle name!" <ref>{{cite journal|last=Mohan|first=Kumar|title=Party Repartee|journal=Complete Cinema|date=25.12.1998|year=1998|month=April|page=5}}</ref> . India premier society magazine 'Society' described him as "A man with million controversies in his beard"<ref>{{cite journal|title=Champgne Shots|journal=Society (Magna Publishers)|year=1998|month=May}}</ref>.
His first biography about [[Madhubala|'Madhubala']] was named ''‘The Mystery and Mystique of Madhubala’'' and published by Magna Books. It created a storm in media and Bollywood. Never before had any Indian author written an unauthorized biography. ‘Madhubala’ was an icon. While her admirers lapped up the book, the actress’ family was aghast! Every skeleton from the family cupboard had been dragged out. The family, specially Madhubala’s sister went out of her way challenging his version. But, true to the tradition of investigative journalism, Mohan Deep had double-checked everything he had written.
His first biography about [[Madhubala|'Madhubala']] was named ''The Mystery and Mystique of Madhubala'' and published by Magna Books. It created a storm in media and Bollywood. Never before had any Indian author written an unauthorized biography. Madhubala’ was an icon. While her admirers lapped up the book, the actress’ family was aghast! Every skeleton from the family cupboard had been dragged out. The family, specially Madhubala’s sister went out of her way challenging his version. But, true to the tradition of investigative journalism, Mohan Deep had double-checked everything he had written.
'Outlook', a leading weekly hailed the book on 'Madhubala'<ref>http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?201688</ref>. Former editor of 'The Illustrated Weekly of India' and a leading columnist and author M V Kamath described it as 'an excellent biography'<ref>{{cite journal|last=Kamath|first=M V|title=Analysis|journal=The Daily|date=May 26, 1996|year=1996|month=May}}</ref> and 'Debonair' called it a commendable biography, also referring to the war between the two publishing houses.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Debonair|year=1996|month=June}}</ref>
'Outlook', a leading weekly hailed the book on 'Madhubala'<ref>http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?201688</ref>. Former editor of 'The Illustrated Weekly of India' and a leading columnist and author M V Kamath described it as 'an excellent biography'<ref>{{cite journal|last=Kamath|first=M V|title=Analysis|journal=The Daily|date=26 May 1996}}</ref> and 'Debonair' called it a commendable biography, also referring to the war between the two publishing houses.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Debonair|year=1996|month=June}}</ref>
The family described as Dehlavis by Mohan Deep disputed the surname and insisted that they were respectable Khans. The author replied by pointing out that the name on her grave, written in Urdu, was MUMTAZ JEHAN BEGUM DEHLAVI<ref>{{cite journal|last=Deep|first=Mohan|title=Madhubala's Publicity Hungry Sister|journal=The Daily|year=1996|month=June|series=Low Life}}</ref> . He had started his work by first visiting her ''mazaar''. He wrote, “Madhubala was Dehlavi and not Khan. But how does that matter? With her kind of success she outgrew these petty things, becoming her own identity. Everyone related to her, including her ancestors (and Madhur herself) earned their identity from Madhubala and if they want to give a fitting tribute to her they should get their surname changed to Madhubalavi.”
The family described as Dehlavis by Mohan Deep disputed the surname and insisted that they were respectable Khans. The author replied by pointing out that the name on her grave, written in Urdu, was MUMTAZ JEHAN BEGUM DEHLAVI<ref>{{cite journal|last=Deep|first=Mohan|title=Madhubala's Publicity Hungry Sister|journal=The Daily|date=June 1996|series=Low Life}}</ref> . He had started his work by first visiting her ''mazaar''. He wrote, “Madhubala was Dehlavi and not Khan. But how does that matter? With her kind of success she outgrew these petty things, becoming her own identity. Everyone related to her, including her ancestors (and Madhur herself) earned their identity from Madhubala and if they want to give a fitting tribute to her they should get their surname changed to Madhubalavi.”
When ‘Madhubala’ was released, a feud was going on between its publishers Magna Publishing and Times Group. Times group went out of their way to do a hatchet job <ref>{{cite journal|last=Akbar|first=M J|journal=Sunday|date=5.8.1996|year=1996|month=August}}on the book, reported ‘Sunday’, an independent political weekly. Taking the advantage of this situation, Madhubala’s family along with some journalists who doubled as PROs blasted the book.
When Madhubala’ was released, a feud was going on between its publishers Magna Publishing and Times Group. Times group went out of their way to do a hatchet job <ref>{{cite journal|last=Akbar|first=M J|journal=Sunday|date=5.8.1996|year=1996|month=August}}on the book, reported Sunday’, an independent political weekly. Taking the advantage of this situation, Madhubala’s family along with some journalists who doubled as PROs blasted the book.
But writing the unauthorized biography of Madhubala earned Mohan Deep a reputation for his unafraid and bold approach.
But writing the unauthorized biography of Madhubala earned Mohan Deep a reputation for his unafraid and bold approach.


== Another scandalous life: '''Meena Kumari''' (1998) ==
== Another scandalous life: ''Meena Kumari'' (1998) ==


He came out with another biography. ''Simply Scandalous: Meena Kumari'' which was published by Image Books. Allegations<ref>{{cite journal|last=Rhatekar|first=Vrunda|title=Misunderstanding Meena Kumari|journal=Asian Age|year=1998|month=Jan|series=Books Page}}</ref> followed this biography too but the readers, critics and reviewers loved his book.
He came out with another biography. ''Simply Scandalous: Meena Kumari'' which was published by Image Books. Allegations<ref>{{cite journal|last=Rhatekar|first=Vrunda|title=Misunderstanding Meena Kumari|journal=Asian Age|year=1998|month=Jan|series=Books Page}}</ref> followed this biography too but the readers, critics and reviewers loved his book.


== The mother of all life stories: '''Eurekha''' (1999) ==
== The mother of all life stories: ''Eurekha'' (1999) ==


Mohan Deep nowe wrote ''Eurekha!'' an unauthorized biography of Bollywood actress Rekha. Shivani Publications published it.
Mohan Deep nowe wrote ''Eurekha!'' an unauthorized biography of Bollywood actress Rekha. Shivani Publications published it.
Line 29: Line 27:
Mohan Deep got 'Eurekha!' vetted by two Supreme Court lawyers
Mohan Deep got 'Eurekha!' vetted by two Supreme Court lawyers
<ref>http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/mohan-deeps-book-eurekha-reveals-all-about-bollywood-actress-rekha/1/243255.html</ref> and though the actress tried her best to thwart <ref>http://www.cinetalkies.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=388:rekha&Itemid=137</ref>the book on her by calling it 'false'<ref>http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-79276801.html</ref> and yet saying that she hadn't read it.
<ref>http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/mohan-deeps-book-eurekha-reveals-all-about-bollywood-actress-rekha/1/243255.html</ref> and though the actress tried her best to thwart <ref>http://www.cinetalkies.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=388:rekha&Itemid=137</ref>the book on her by calling it 'false'<ref>http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-79276801.html</ref> and yet saying that she hadn't read it.
Rekha was to talk about 'Eurekha' 4 years later. Said she, <ref>http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/jun122005/enter165418200569.asp</ref> "I can never forget that particular phase of my life. I think he was a journalist named Mohan Deep. I still wonder from where did he collect all those hearsay account of my very personal life. And the way he had twisted the title ‘Eurek(h)a’ of the book by shamelessly borrowing the joyous quote ‘Eureka’ which meant ‘I got it’ of a famous scientist named Archimedes. But then that was his testimony against mine in a biographical not an autobiographical format."
Rekha was to talk about 'Eurekha' 4 years later. Said she, <ref>http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/jun122005/enter165418200569.asp</ref> "I can never forget that particular phase of my life. I think he was a journalist named Mohan Deep. I still wonder from where did he collect all those hearsay account of my very personal life. And the way he had twisted the title Eurek(h)a’ of the book by shamelessly borrowing the joyous quote Eureka’ which meant I got it’ of a famous scientist named Archimedes. But then that was his testimony against mine in a biographical not an autobiographical format."
She went on, "Now just wait till I decide to pen and come out with my own autobiography to be tentatively titled ‘Shooting Straight’ or better still ‘Rekha Strikes Back’. Until then let everyone know that Rekha is one woman who is gracious enough to forgive and forget."
She went on, "Now just wait till I decide to pen and come out with my own autobiography to be tentatively titled Shooting Straight’ or better still Rekha Strikes Back’. Until then let everyone know that Rekha is one woman who is gracious enough to forgive and forget."
Eight years later, she is still to write it.
Eight years later, she is still to write it.
This completed his trilogy of star biography.
This completed his trilogy of star biography.


== First novel - '''It's My Life''' (1997) ==
== First novel - ''It's My Life'' (1997) ==


Though people talk about Mohan Deep's trilogy of star biographies, he also wrote a novel. While he was described as an author to watch <ref>{{cite journal|last=Patel|first=Tara|title=The Rotting Mumbai Elite|journal=Free Press Journal|date=1.2.1998|year=1998|month=Feb}}</ref> , the conservative Indian media treated 'It's My Life' as soft porn. The politics behind this became clear when columnist V Gangadhar exposed it in his weekly column<ref>{{cite journal|last=Gangadhar|first=V|title=Bottom Line / The Politics of Pornography|journal=Midday|date=16.2.1998|year=1998|month=February}}</ref>. Like 'Madhubala', this too was published by Magna Books.
Though people talk about Mohan Deep's trilogy of star biographies, he also wrote a novel. While he was described as an author to watch <ref>{{cite journal|last=Patel|first=Tara|title=The Rotting Mumbai Elite|journal=Free Press Journal|date=1.2.1998|year=1998|month=Feb}}</ref> , the conservative Indian media treated 'It's My Life' as soft porn. The politics behind this became clear when columnist V Gangadhar exposed it in his weekly column<ref>{{cite journal|last=Gangadhar|first=V|title=Bottom Line / The Politics of Pornography|journal=Midday|date=16.2.1998|year=1998|month=February}}</ref>. Like 'Madhubala', this too was published by Magna Books.


== ''Four Options'' (2000) ==



== '''Four Options''' (2000) ==
Four Options was a quiz book that sold successfully as Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Indian version of
Four Options was a quiz book that sold successfully as Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Indian version of
<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Who_Wants_to_Be_a_Millionaire%3F</ref> a TV serial anchored by Amitabh Bachchan became a rage in the same year. It was published by BookQuest.
<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Who_Wants_to_Be_a_Millionaire%3F</ref> a TV serial anchored by Amitabh Bachchan became a rage in the same year. It was published by BookQuest.


== '''Nehru and Tantrik Woman''' (2002) - Censor trouble ==
== ''Nehru and Tantrik Woman'' (2002) - Censor trouble ==


Refusing to be known as only a writer of unauthorized biographies, he experimented with a different genre; historical fiction. He wrote ''Nehru and the Tantrik Woman''. It was inspired by the scandalous revelations about the illegitimate child of the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru by his private secretary M. O. Mathai. The play was set in ’75-’77 when, then Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi had imposed emergency rule in India.
Refusing to be known as only a writer of unauthorized biographies, he experimented with a different genre; historical fiction. He wrote ''Nehru and the Tantrik Woman''. It was inspired by the scandalous revelations about the illegitimate child of the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru by his private secretary M. O. Mathai. The play was set in ’75-’77 when, then Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi had imposed emergency rule in India.
Line 58: Line 53:




== Sabbatical and '''Feng Shui for the Bold & Beautiful, the Rich & Famous''' (2001) ==
== Sabbatical and ''Feng Shui for the Bold & Beautiful, the Rich & Famous'' (2001) ==
Besides writing, Mohan Deep was into painting and oriental philosophy. Much before Feng Shui became popular in India, he had started experimenting with the ancient oriental philosophy and science of Geomancy. Seeing that it was working well he shared the knowledge with some Bollywood stars and Indian politicians.
Besides writing, Mohan Deep was into painting and oriental philosophy. Much before Feng Shui became popular in India, he had started experimenting with the ancient oriental philosophy and science of Geomancy. Seeing that it was working well he shared the knowledge with some Bollywood stars and Indian politicians.
This, along with his talent for painting, steered him into a new direction. Feng Shui became his new passion. He started painting Feng Shui symbols and icons. The acceptance was instant.
This, along with his talent for painting, steered him into a new direction. Feng Shui became his new passion. He started painting Feng Shui symbols and icons. The acceptance was instant.
He wrote another book: '''Feng Shui for the Bold and Beautiful, the Rich and Famous''' (2001). It was launched by Bollywood star Ajay Devgn<ref>{{cite journal|last=Padukone|first=Chaitanya|title=Calomumbai|journal=Midday|date=26.7.2001|year=2001|month=July}}</ref> who had consulted him after the debacle of his home production 'Raju Chacha' and is today one of the most successful Bollywood stars.
He wrote another book: ''Feng Shui for the Bold and Beautiful, the Rich and Famous'' (2001). It was launched by Bollywood star Ajay Devgn<ref>{{cite journal|last=Padukone|first=Chaitanya|title=Calomumbai|journal=Midday|date=26.7.2001|year=2001|month=July}}</ref> who had consulted him after the debacle of his home production 'Raju Chacha' and is today one of the most successful Bollywood stars.
Calling it a sabbatical Mohan Deep changed lanes and became a Feng Shui Master<ref>{{cite journal|last=Bhagwagar|first=Dale|title=2.9.2001|journal=Jam-E-Jamshed|year=2001|month=September}}</ref> .
Calling it a sabbatical Mohan Deep changed lanes and became a Feng Shui Master<ref>{{cite journal|last=Bhagwagar|first=Dale|title=2.9.2001|journal=Jam-E-Jamshed|year=2001|month=September}}</ref> .


== ''''The Five Foolish Virgins'''' ==
== '''The Five Foolish Virgins''' ==
After a successful career as a Feng Shui Master for over ten years, Mohan Deep is making a comeback with a new book of fiction - ''The Five Foolish Virgins''.


== Early and personal life ==
After a successful career as a Feng Shui Master for over 10 years, Mohan Deep is making a comeback with a new book of fiction - ''The Five Foolish Virgins''.

== Early days and Personal Life ==
Belonging to a Sindhi (Hyderabadi Aamil) family that migrated from Karachi (Sind) (now in Pakistan) in the wake of the partition, Mohan Deep spent his early life in Bombay’s western suburbs, Kandivli. His complete name is Mohan Kishinchand Chandirramni.
Belonging to a Sindhi (Hyderabadi Aamil) family that migrated from Karachi (Sind) (now in Pakistan) in the wake of the partition, Mohan Deep spent his early life in Bombay’s western suburbs, Kandivli. His complete name is Mohan Kishinchand Chandirramni.
He started as a short story writer and novelist in Sindhi when he was doing his schooling.
He started as a short story writer and novelist in Sindhi when he was doing his schooling.
His published work includes includes over 200 short stories, two novels namely ''Surg Munhje Baahun Mein'' (Heaven in My Arms) (1964) and ''Khaali Haath'' (Empty Hands) (1969), a collection of short stories entitled ''Parai Aurat'' (The Other Woman)(1970)and a collection of poems named ''Munhje Paachhe jo Hik Hisso'' (1972).
His published work includes includes over 200 short stories, two novels namely ''Surg Munhje Baahun Mein'' (Heaven in My Arms) (1964) and ''Khaali Haath'' (Empty Hands) (1969), a collection of short stories entitled ''Parai Aurat'' (The Other Woman)(1970)and a collection of poems named ''Munhje Paachhe jo Hik Hisso'' (1972).
He was actively associated with Sahitya Akademy.
He was actively associated with Sahitya Akademy.
He made a successful shift to writing in English after getting an honors Degree in English literature from the University of Pune in 1974. He did this after abandoning a 7-years course in architectural midway.
He made a successful shift to writing in English after getting an honours degree in English literature from the [[University of Pune]] in 1974. He did this after abandoning a 7-years course in architecture midway through. He is married to Nimmi Chandiramani, who is a Reiki Grand Master and an astrologer and has a son Vikkramm who is an IT entrepreneur and runs a relation-oriented website futurescopes.com
He is married to Nimmi Chandiramani, who is a Reiki Grand Master and an astrologer and has a son Vikkramm who is an IT entrepreneur and runs a relation-oriented website futurescopes.com





==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


# Outlook India ^ http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?201688

# Hindustan Times ^ http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/specials/proj_tabloid/inspired.shtml
1.Outlook India ^ http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?201688
# India Today ^ http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/mohan-deeps-book-eurekha-reveals-all-about-bollywood-actress-rekha/1/243255.html

# Cinetalkies on Rekha ^ http://www.cinetalkies.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=388:rekha&Itemid=137
2.Hindustan Times ^ http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/specials/proj_tabloid/inspired.shtml
# Highbeam ^ http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-79276801.html

# Deccan Heralad ^ http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/jun122005/enter165418200569.asp
3.India Today ^ http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/mohan-deeps-book-eurekha-reveals-all-about-bollywood-actress-rekha/1/243255.html

4.Cinetalkies on Rekha ^ http://www.cinetalkies.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=388:rekha&Itemid=137

5.Highbeam ^ http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-79276801.html

6.Deccan Heralad ^ http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/jun122005/enter165418200569.asp

7.Wikipedia ^ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Who_Wants_to_Be_a_Millionaire%3F


<!-- This will add a notice to the bottom of the page and won't blank it! The new template which says that your draft is waiting for a review will appear at the bottom; simply ignore the old (grey) drafted templates and the old (red) decline templates. A bot will update your article submission. Until then, please don't change anything in this text box and press "Save page". -->
<!-- This will add a notice to the bottom of the page and won't blank it! The new template which says that your draft is waiting for a review will appear at the bottom; simply ignore the old (grey) drafted templates and the old (red) decline templates. A bot will update your article submission. Until then, please don't change anything in this text box and press "Save page". -->

Revision as of 23:10, 22 March 2013

Mohan Deep, Writer and Feng Shui Master

Mohan Kishinchand Chandirramani (20 April 1948), better known as Mohan Deep, is an Indian author, painter and feng shui master. Mohan Deep is the author of The Mystery and Mystique of Madhubala (1996), It's My Life (Novel) (1997), Simply Scandalous: Meena Kumari (1998), Eurekha! – an unauthorized biography of Rekha. (1999), Four Options (2000), Feng Shui for the Bold and Beautiful, the Rich and Famous (2001) and Nehru and the Tantrik Woman (2002) After a sabbatical of a decade, during which he touched the life of people as a Feng Shui Master, he is back with The Five Foolish Virgins, a book of fiction, to be launched in April 2013. Mohan Deep is known for what are described as 'unauthorized biographies of Bollywood stars'. While Khushwant Singh, one of the most popular columnist-journalist and former editor of 'Illustrated Weekly of India' called him 'a truly gifted gossip writer'], poetess-columnist Tara Patel described him as a maverick writer [1] , Behram Contractor referred to him as William Goldman of Bollywood’s stars [2] and Rajiv. K. Bajaj, the editor of 'The Daily' labelled him Kitty Kelly of India[3] . All his books are cntroversial.

Bollywood biographies

The first biography - Madhubala (1996)

Film star, TV's number one stand up anchor Shekhar Suman said at the launch of 'Eurekha' that "Controversy is Mohan Deep's middle name!" [4] . India premier society magazine 'Society' described him as "A man with million controversies in his beard"[5]. His first biography about 'Madhubala' was named The Mystery and Mystique of Madhubala and published by Magna Books. It created a storm in media and Bollywood. Never before had any Indian author written an unauthorized biography. Madhubala’ was an icon. While her admirers lapped up the book, the actress’ family was aghast! Every skeleton from the family cupboard had been dragged out. The family, specially Madhubala’s sister went out of her way challenging his version. But, true to the tradition of investigative journalism, Mohan Deep had double-checked everything he had written. 'Outlook', a leading weekly hailed the book on 'Madhubala'[6]. Former editor of 'The Illustrated Weekly of India' and a leading columnist and author M V Kamath described it as 'an excellent biography'[7] and 'Debonair' called it a commendable biography, also referring to the war between the two publishing houses.[8] The family described as Dehlavis by Mohan Deep disputed the surname and insisted that they were respectable Khans. The author replied by pointing out that the name on her grave, written in Urdu, was MUMTAZ JEHAN BEGUM DEHLAVI[9] . He had started his work by first visiting her mazaar. He wrote, “Madhubala was Dehlavi and not Khan. But how does that matter? With her kind of success she outgrew these petty things, becoming her own identity. Everyone related to her, including her ancestors (and Madhur herself) earned their identity from Madhubala and if they want to give a fitting tribute to her they should get their surname changed to Madhubalavi.” When Madhubala’ was released, a feud was going on between its publishers Magna Publishing and Times Group. Times group went out of their way to do a hatchet job Cite error: A <ref> tag is missing the closing </ref> (see the help page). followed this biography too but the readers, critics and reviewers loved his book.

The mother of all life stories: Eurekha (1999)

Mohan Deep nowe wrote Eurekha! an unauthorized biography of Bollywood actress Rekha. Shivani Publications published it. Indian premier daily newspaper Hindustan Times [10] wrote, "Mohan Deep has established himself as something of a scandolographer penning biographies of Madhubala (Madhubala), Meena Kumari (Simply Scandalous) and Rekha (Eurekha). Mohan Deep got 'Eurekha!' vetted by two Supreme Court lawyers [11] and though the actress tried her best to thwart [12]the book on her by calling it 'false'[13] and yet saying that she hadn't read it. Rekha was to talk about 'Eurekha' 4 years later. Said she, [14] "I can never forget that particular phase of my life. I think he was a journalist named Mohan Deep. I still wonder from where did he collect all those hearsay account of my very personal life. And the way he had twisted the title Eurek(h)a’ of the book by shamelessly borrowing the joyous quote Eureka’ which meant I got it’ of a famous scientist named Archimedes. But then that was his testimony against mine in a biographical not an autobiographical format." She went on, "Now just wait till I decide to pen and come out with my own autobiography to be tentatively titled Shooting Straight’ or better still Rekha Strikes Back’. Until then let everyone know that Rekha is one woman who is gracious enough to forgive and forget." Eight years later, she is still to write it. This completed his trilogy of star biography.

First novel - It's My Life (1997)

Though people talk about Mohan Deep's trilogy of star biographies, he also wrote a novel. While he was described as an author to watch [15] , the conservative Indian media treated 'It's My Life' as soft porn. The politics behind this became clear when columnist V Gangadhar exposed it in his weekly column[16]. Like 'Madhubala', this too was published by Magna Books.

Four Options (2000)

Four Options was a quiz book that sold successfully as Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Indian version of [17] a TV serial anchored by Amitabh Bachchan became a rage in the same year. It was published by BookQuest.

Nehru and Tantrik Woman (2002) - Censor trouble

Refusing to be known as only a writer of unauthorized biographies, he experimented with a different genre; historical fiction. He wrote Nehru and the Tantrik Woman. It was inspired by the scandalous revelations about the illegitimate child of the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru by his private secretary M. O. Mathai. The play was set in ’75-’77 when, then Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi had imposed emergency rule in India. The censor board for the theater refused to give permission to stage the play even after a stormy meeting between the author and the board members. “We agree that the play is historical fiction and based on stories that have been revealed by Nehru’s secretary but we will not allow it to be staged as it can create law and order problems,” refusing to put it in writing, the board told the author orally. The script was published as a book by Image Books with the same title Nehru & the Tantrik Woman. [18] but never staged.


Mohan Deep was on the board of Censor Board. He was also the editor of an English news-weekly "Suvidha Express" for over two years and shifted to edit and write content for a filmtvindia.com, a Bollywood related web site. He edited a news-oriented web sited 'Parinda.com' too.


Sabbatical and Feng Shui for the Bold & Beautiful, the Rich & Famous (2001)

Besides writing, Mohan Deep was into painting and oriental philosophy. Much before Feng Shui became popular in India, he had started experimenting with the ancient oriental philosophy and science of Geomancy. Seeing that it was working well he shared the knowledge with some Bollywood stars and Indian politicians. This, along with his talent for painting, steered him into a new direction. Feng Shui became his new passion. He started painting Feng Shui symbols and icons. The acceptance was instant. He wrote another book: Feng Shui for the Bold and Beautiful, the Rich and Famous (2001). It was launched by Bollywood star Ajay Devgn[19] who had consulted him after the debacle of his home production 'Raju Chacha' and is today one of the most successful Bollywood stars. Calling it a sabbatical Mohan Deep changed lanes and became a Feng Shui Master[20] .

The Five Foolish Virgins

After a successful career as a Feng Shui Master for over ten years, Mohan Deep is making a comeback with a new book of fiction - The Five Foolish Virgins.

Early and personal life

Belonging to a Sindhi (Hyderabadi Aamil) family that migrated from Karachi (Sind) (now in Pakistan) in the wake of the partition, Mohan Deep spent his early life in Bombay’s western suburbs, Kandivli. His complete name is Mohan Kishinchand Chandirramni. He started as a short story writer and novelist in Sindhi when he was doing his schooling. His published work includes includes over 200 short stories, two novels namely Surg Munhje Baahun Mein (Heaven in My Arms) (1964) and Khaali Haath (Empty Hands) (1969), a collection of short stories entitled Parai Aurat (The Other Woman)(1970)and a collection of poems named Munhje Paachhe jo Hik Hisso (1972). He was actively associated with Sahitya Akademy. He made a successful shift to writing in English after getting an honours degree in English literature from the University of Pune in 1974. He did this after abandoning a 7-years course in architecture midway through. He is married to Nimmi Chandiramani, who is a Reiki Grand Master and an astrologer and has a son Vikkramm who is an IT entrepreneur and runs a relation-oriented website futurescopes.com

References

  1. ^ Patel, Tara (1998). "Maverick Writer". Afternoon on Sunday (17th May 1998): 6.
  2. ^ Contractor, Behram (6.4.1998). "Eurekha". Afternoon Despatch & Courier. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  3. ^ Bajaj, RK (1996). "Deep Sells". {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help); Unknown parameter |= ignored (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  4. ^ Mohan, Kumar (25.12.1998). "Party Repartee". Complete Cinema: 5. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  5. ^ "Champgne Shots". Society (Magna Publishers). 1998. {{cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  6. ^ http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?201688
  7. ^ Kamath, M V (26 May 1996). "Analysis". The Daily.
  8. ^ Debonair. 1996. {{cite journal}}: Missing or empty |title= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  9. ^ Deep, Mohan (June 1996). "Madhubala's Publicity Hungry Sister". The Daily. Low Life.
  10. ^ http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/specials/proj_tabloid/inspired.shtml (
  11. ^ http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/mohan-deeps-book-eurekha-reveals-all-about-bollywood-actress-rekha/1/243255.html
  12. ^ http://www.cinetalkies.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=388:rekha&Itemid=137
  13. ^ http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-79276801.html
  14. ^ http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/jun122005/enter165418200569.asp
  15. ^ Patel, Tara (1.2.1998). "The Rotting Mumbai Elite". Free Press Journal. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  16. ^ Gangadhar, V (16.2.1998). "Bottom Line / The Politics of Pornography". Midday. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  17. ^ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Who_Wants_to_Be_a_Millionaire%3F
  18. ^ http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1309&dat=20021122&id=Z8YtAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Z3sFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4500,1002655
  19. ^ Padukone, Chaitanya (26.7.2001). "Calomumbai". Midday. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  20. ^ Bhagwagar, Dale (2001). "2.9.2001". Jam-E-Jamshed. {{cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  1. Outlook India ^ http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?201688
  2. Hindustan Times ^ http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/specials/proj_tabloid/inspired.shtml
  3. India Today ^ http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/mohan-deeps-book-eurekha-reveals-all-about-bollywood-actress-rekha/1/243255.html
  4. Cinetalkies on Rekha ^ http://www.cinetalkies.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=388:rekha&Itemid=137
  5. Highbeam ^ http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-79276801.html
  6. Deccan Heralad ^ http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/jun122005/enter165418200569.asp