28th October 2003
Houston

The atmosphere in the air was electric and our spirits were sky high as we approached the theatre. After all, we were waiting for this day, right since TAGORE hit the theatres the world over. The reviews of the movie had pepped up our excitement and when the D-day finally arrived, we were at the theatre much before the scheduled time. Chiru fans from all over Houston and other places like Corpus Christi, College Station, Kingsville, Beaumont and Clearlake flocked together at the Funplex Theatre. Fifty of us drove together all the way from Clear Lake to watch Tagore on the First day, first show in Houston. Good that we bought our 50 tickets in advance because all the tickets were sold out way in advance and fans from places like College Station and Kingsville had to wait for the next show.

We just couldn't wait to get in. The walk way and lobby were cramped with fans trying to get in as soon as possible to get hold of the best seat. The euphoria inside was amazing. There was hardly anyone sitting when the MEGASTAR flashed on the screen (introductory scene). There were papers in the air and die-hard fans were dancing in their seats, as Chiru started to sizzle. It was purely, a one man show. The man is simply amazing, can't think of any other contemporary hero who has such a class and mass adulation. He defies his age when he dances, it was just grace personified. A couple of our North-Indian friends, who had come over to be a part of the hysteria, were awe-struck. They had as much fun as we did, even though they did not know the language. The role was just child's play for Chiru. Shriya and Jyothika were pretty, even though they had very little to do. Sunil's comedy was excellent; his imitation of the veena step from Indra evoked huge roars of laughter from the audience. But it was Chiru all the way. His sense of timing during dialogue delivery, the fight sequences and his dances all had his trademark stamp and class. Hats off to Vinayak for such a masterpiece.

He came, he sizzled, he conquered. Yes, Tagore finally arrived at Houston. We fans saw him, and he as he always does, conquered all our hearts, and filled them with immense joy… joy that can never be measured or described.

Krishna Chaithanya Beerakayala
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