By Subhash K. Jha
Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Well-known Bengali filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh skipped the International Film Festival of Marrakech, where his latest offering “Abohoman” was to be screened, because the film’s leading lady Mamta Shankar was not allowed to accompany him.

“It’s true that I wanted Mamta to come along since she’s the film’s leading lady. And yes, she didn’t get to go,” Ghosh told IANS.

The director said another reason was that he wasn’t up to the long trip so he missed the fest.

“But besides that it’s a very long and tiring journey to Marrakech. I’d have to travel to Dubai first and halt there for nine hours before catching another flight to Morocco and then drive to Marrakech. I’m scripting my next film at the moment. And I can’t really afford to get away.”

But rumours are rife that Ghosh made the sacrifice for Mamta’s sake. She plays the neglected wife of a film director in “Abohoman” and is apparently very friendly with Ghosh.

“Yes, she is a friend. And I think she should’ve been in Marrakech because she’s the only international face from Kolkata,” he said.

Ghosh’s “Abohoman” is said to be based on the personal life of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray.