Madhuri Dixit pays tribute to M.F. Husain

Madhuri Dixit has paid a personal tribute to M.F. Husain, who died in London on Wednesday.

Known for his celebration of the female form, the controversial artist described Dixit as the "complete woman" and heralded the actress as his muse. Dixit recalled fond memories of Husain, who painted her on various occasions
and even organised an exhibition in her name.

Speaking from her home in Denver to NDTV, she said: "Age never touched him. Here he was, an 86-year-old, but there was a little child within him that was excited about everything he saw as well.

"He was not only a great artist, but also my director. We worked together in Gaja Gamini. A wonderful personality. India has lost a jewel."

Described as 'The Picasso of India', Husain died of cardiac arrest at Royal Brompton Hospital and was cremated in London.

His last rites will be performed in India.

95-year-old MF Husain's new muse

After Madhuri Dixit, Tabu and Amrita Rao, M F Husain has found a new muse in Anushka Sharma.

At last count, the celebrated artist had seen her film Band Baaja Baaraat eight times and was looking forward to several more repeat viewings.

The 95-year-old finds the movie fascinating. Husain who now lives in Doha in Qatar and travels to Dubai often has been catching up on Maneesh Sharma's movie with his family and close friends.

And interestingly, when he watches the flick, he does not put on his spectacles. He has been claiming that ever since he saw Anushka, his vision has improved!

On New Year's Day, Husain watched the film with his close pal, Mumbai-based businessman Munna Javeri, who was visitng him in Dubai.

"In the cinema hall I was shocked to seen him remove his glasses, " says Javeri. "He knew all the dialogues and he viewed the film like a painting filled with colours. If only he had a brush in hand"

Speaking from Dubai, Husain says, "It's still running to packed halls in its fourth week. Anushka was okay in the Shah Rukh starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, but in Band Baaja Baaraat she has proved what an intelligent actor she is.

She knows what subtle acting is all about. Even Ranveer Singh is good."

He feels the movie has a crisp, well-written script and the second half springs a twist. "It is a simple subject without any complications. This is what leading filmmakers must learn who unnecessarily complicate their movies."

Previoulsy he was fascinated by Hum Aapke Hain Kaun and Vivaah which had marriage as their themes. And so does Band Baaja Baraat. "It's not that because they are all wedding related. It is because they celebrate life and colours which I cherish, " adds Husain.
He plans to see the movie as many times till it runs there. And next time when Anushka is in Dubai or Doha, she is sure to have a portrait of hers presented by the celebrated artist!

FACT: M F Husain has watched the Madhuri Dixit-starrer Hum Aapke Hain Koun 73 times and Amrita Rao-starrer Vivaah 20 times.