Zed, who is chairperson of Indo-American Leadership Confederation, pointed out that one of the world’s largest economies, India gave the world four major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism, ancient Indus Valley civilization, Mahatma Gandhi, Sanskrit, Taj Mahal, yoga, oldest existing scripture Rig-Veda, etc. Where else could one find such a religiously diverse, multi-ethnic and multi-lingual society living together?

India did face issues of poverty, corruption, healthcare, literacy, etc., but such a broad generalization of a country of over 1.2 billion as “horrible” was highly disturbing for its hard-working populace, Zed argued.

Zed also hoped that Lee would handle the Pi’s spirituality exploration and holistic edge with cultural sensitivity in the upcoming movie in this India-influenced story.

Zed further said that more world filmmakers should explore many finer and deeper things India offered. Planet’s most multidimensional country, fast growing economy, emerging world power, largest democracy, etc.; India has snow-capped mountains, palm-fringed and sun-washed beaches, glorious temples, colorful festivals, rich philosophy and spirituality, abundant historical sites, wildlife safaris, recharging treks, historic trade routes, cultural wealth, etc.

Filmed in India, Canada and Taiwan, “Life of Pi” is based on award-winning best-selling novel of the same name, which is an adventure tale about 16-year-old Pi Patel stranded on a lifeboat with a hyena, orangutan, an injured zebra, and a hungry Bengal tiger in Pacific Ocean on his voyage from India to Canada.