Guru Dutt, in sharp focus

An experienced biographer of Bollywood stars offers a fine understanding of the overlap between the actor-filmmaker's personal and professional life

Yasser Usman holds the rare distinction of writing four film biographies. After producing books on Rajesh Khanna, Rekha and Sanjay Dutt, he has now turned his attention to actor-filmmaker Guru Dutt -- one of the finest talents that Indian cinematic history can boast of. Guru Dutt: An Unfinished Story is a moving account of a creative genius who was influenced by Hollywood melodrama, German expressionism, Bhakti poetry, and the Bauls of Bengal.

Dutt’s filmography -- which includes masterpieces such as Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Mr. & Mrs. 55, C.I.D., Saheb Bibi Aur Ghulam -- is well-known. What Usman