‘Keep expectations low’: Anand Mahindra’s nostalgic post on Rishikesh visit gets mixed response on social media | Today’s news
Anand Mahindra shared photos of Rishikesh on social media and reminisced about his filmmaking days. He recalled visiting the Chotiwala restaurant regularly while working on his thesis film. The restaurant was practically his dining room at the time.
Mahindra also recalled going to the hills behind Swargashram to film the sadhu Bankhandi Baba. He said he had not visited Rishikesh for some time.
The billionaire welcomed the city’s changing look, citing new riverside walkways and improved public spaces. He called these changes a welcome facelift. Nature, he said, has always done most of the decorating in Rishikesh.
But Mahindra hoped the city would retain its soul amid these changes. He ended his post by expressing his desire to return and see the changes for himself on his next visit soon.
“But I just hope that amid all the changes, Rishikesh keeps its soul. It’s time to go back and see for yourself…” he wrote.
Reaction on social networks
Many social media users reacted to Anand Mahindra’s nostalgic post.
“I’m not sure when was the last time you visited Rishikesh, but the city has changed quite a bit over the years. With the increasing number of visitors, the administration has introduced many changes. Some have really improved the city, while others may feel unfamiliar to those who cherish its old memories. But what a blessing it is to have memories of old Rishikesh. Some things may change with time, but memories remain only a gift from God.”
“Cosmetic development of the city aside, sitting on the rocks on the banks, listening and watching the Ganga flow is still a real pleasure (sic),” commented another user.
One user wrote: “I’ve never been to Rishikesh but I hope to visit someday! Thank you for sharing these beautiful memories. Some places seem to hold a special piece of our soul.”
“You’re welcome just to experience a little nostalgia. But this isn’t the Rishikesh you’ll see now. So keep your expectations low. I’m sitting on the sidewalk as I write this. I’ve seen things deteriorate over the past few years…” chimed in another.
The Beatles Project
Meanwhile, a film project about The Beatles may be shooting in Rishikesh. It will be directed by Oscar-winning director Sir Sam Mendes. Filming is slated for February 2027 at the historic Beatles Ashram in Uttarakhand. A delegation of filmmakers told this to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on October 18.
The project is called “The Beatles – a film event of four films”. Neal Street Productions is producing it for Sony Pictures Entertainment; Apple Corps is cooperating.
Each of the four films will focus on one member of the band. It will cover his life and musical journey. A global theatrical release is planned for April 2028.
A Rishikesh shoot can include more than 100 international crew members. They will be joined by about 150 Indian crew members. Local technicians and support staff will also work on it.
The delegation said the project could create jobs for local people. It could also boost hospitality, transportation and other businesses in the region.
