Profile: Ashok Mathur

Credit: Courtesy Ashok Mathur

Vancouver film and TV producer Ashok Mathur says multiculturalism is as much about acknowledging differences as being politically correct

For my first blog of ’09, I decided to ask local film and TV producer Ashok Mathur for help with one of my new year’s resolutions—to better connect with Vancouver’s varied communities.

Last August, Ashok wrapped up three years producing and directing Chai Time. A daily show on Channel M (now OMNI), the program focused on Vancouver-based South Asian art, news and entertainment, and was broadcast in Hindi, Punjabi and English.

Originally from New Delhi, Ashok now works out of Beaumont Studios as an independent filmmaker—and is just as involved in promoting intercultural communication. He noted multiculturalism is as much about acknowledging differences as being politically correct, and offered me some advice.

“A lot of people arrive at the starting point … [but] I think you have to move beyond that ‘happy happy joy’ phase,” he said. “It’s also about acknowledging our differences and having some fun with them … and trying to overcome that communication divide.”  

1. As a starting point, don’t sidestep the obvious: Diwali and other events.

“Festivals are always an amazing, joyous outpouring of soul and food and music.”

2. Pass on the butter chicken and try a South Indian sambar or sosa from Saravanaa Bhavan at Broadway and Oak.

“I like to experience different lands through my tongue.”

3. Rent Paheli from one of the stores at 49th and Main. The film, named after the Hindi word for “riddle,” is a non-spooky ghost story.

“Go in and ask someone to recommend something,” recommends Ashok, “and try and watch more than one kind of film.”

As for Ashok’s own resolution—given the blast of information circulating my hard drive—it’s well taken:
 

“This year, I plan to take in less; less information, fewer opinions, less Googling. I want to take myself off the information highway. I will surgically remove my compulsive, neurotic, info-addicted, Internet dependent personality and replace it with a quiet, blank screen where I can project my own ideas and dreams. Or just leave that space empty.

“I promise to be more sensitive to the ecology of my own mind, and not litter it with the debris of the outside world.”