Mumbai, June 15 -- Twenty years ago on this day, when the monsoon opened up over Mumbai, I saw Aamir Khan's Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in Indiaat Eros. First day first show. I knew him as a friend and actor. This was Aamir Khan Productions' maiden venture. He was now also a debutant producer. At the end I was not just amazed by what Aamir and director Ashutosh Gowariker had made, but also unbelieving, and I came out of the theatre his fan as well.

PVR and INOX were not here then with their multi-screens and Dolby atmosphere. The single screens were poorly ventilated, had uncomfortable seating, unhygienic toilets and average canteen food, but were the height of cinematic entertainment. Blockbuster films ran several months beyond the opening...