Gulzar Says He Never Intended to Join Cinema, Was Deeply in Love with Books

Legendary poet, lyricist, and filmmaker Gulzar on Wednesday revealed that he never planned to enter the world of cinema, as his true passion had always been literature.

Speaking at the inaugural session of Celebrate Cinema 2025 at filmmaker Subhash Ghai’s Whistling Woods International Film School, the 91-year-old artist reflected on his early creative journey and his enduring love for books.

“I never wanted to come to the cinema and I didn’t want to write for cinema, and I would refuse it,” Gulzar said. “I was fascinated with books; I was in love with the books. I would read a lot of literature.”

Known for his evocative poetry and profound storytelling, Gulzar has over the decades carved a unique place in Indian cinema, blending lyrical depth with emotional realism. Despite his initial reluctance, his contributions as a lyricist, screenwriter, and filmmaker have left an indelible mark on generations of audiences.

The event, attended by film students and industry professionals, celebrated the intersection of literature and cinema — a theme that has defined much of Gulzar’s illustrious career.