I met Jagdish Agarwal in 1990 or 1991 in his one room picture Library. I clearly remember my first entry in the room of his office- probably the most organized personal space i have ever visited.
I was working at the THE ILLUSTRATEDWEEKLYOF INDIA, and my boss Pradeep Chandra gave me his number saying- if you need pictures urgently call Jagdish. (that time organizing pictures according to the need of the magazine, was the part of the job.
Later, I called Jagdish to meet. as the struggling photographer I had to find out various possibilities for earning money. He called me to come on Saturday :-)
And then meeting him on saturdays still continues.
During my group show along with Sudharak Olwe at Haceinda Art Gallery, in Mumbai, while discussing the planning of the 20th year of Dinodia, I offered him to make the film based on the interview of the photographers.
'Joy is the Goal' was the film in which 12 photographer talled about their association with Dinodia.
It was screened at the annual meeting (just one public screening) and all the participants received the copy.
That film should be the part of this series - suggested my friend S D Bhaumik. But I do not have the copy at the moment. so I will try to get it and upload along with this series.
My long association with Mr. Jagdish Agarwal, compel me to do a film on his personalty.
My earlier films on Baiju Parthan and Himmat Shah gave me an opportunity to interact with the artist community in India.
I was often asked by my friends- why I make this kind of films?
And I tell them- this is my learning process. editing the films myself- gives me chance to learn many things - about art and life.
This is my way of learning which I missed by not going to a formal art school. (and my artist friends tell me you do not miss any thing.)
Few things more about Jagdish sir!
what he practiced all his life is dedication and commitment to his words.
if he says 'yes'-
it is always yes, and on time.
He has the unique capacity to keep his words and be on time.
today when I sit back and try to think- who else I know in my life, who has achieved this much mastery over his words?
....NONE !!!
That makes him a master of himself!
I thank you Sir and salute you for being what you are !!
