I know this is going to sound a bit redundant, but I'm terribly sorry for not blogging in so long. There's been so much happening in my life and in the office that I haven't had a chance to take a breath. So, here's me inhaling some thoughts and exhaling some love and gratitude.

Thank you all, sincerely, for helping to make Dostana the success that it is. It's heartening to know that a film, comedic for the most part, can still make an impact on people’s thought processes. No one's cringing at the image of Abhishek and John frolicking in the sand, and no one’s walking out of cinema halls in discomfort. Rather, the number of repeat viewers in the first weekend itself has been the true testament to the success of the film and more importantly, to the way it's been treated. We've taken a topic that is still largely considered taboo to talk about in our society and used it as the impetus for a hilarious comedy. Our male lead characters are playing gay to their advantage, quite the opposite of those who feel the need to stay in the closet because of the narrow-mindedness that exists in our country. We weren't trying to be controversial or push the envelope gratuitously. Our principle aim is to entertain, but if we can change a few hearts and minds along the way, well, that's precisely what makes filmmaking so special.

For the most part, the response to the film has been extremely positive, but as expected, there have been those out there who have voiced their disdain towards our efforts. I'll be honest; it did bother me, but only for a few short seconds. Anyone who knows me knows how open I am to critiques and opinions from all sides. If I can dish it out, I can take it myself. I'm only disappointed that these - and I use these words very loosely - seemingly literate, progressively thinking members of the media argue that Dostana is offensive to homosexuals. I only wish I had called them to a recent screening we had for members of the gay community in Bombay, who laughed and laughed, cried and left the cinema hall gratified. I don't need to say any more about this because our work here, to put it very simply, is done.

The music of the film still plays constantly in our office. My staff is taking their friends and family to watch the film over and over again with excitement and pride. The buzz for Dostana has just begun and in the lives of those that worked on it, the journey remains an exciting one. I hope you continue to experience the high we're all on right now. Watch the film again - it gets funnier with every viewing.