Days after creating history by winning the first Oscar for an Indian production with her documentary The Elephant Whisperers, producer Guneet Monga visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar to pay thanks. In addition to visiting the shrine, Guneet – who was accompanied by her husband Sunny Kapoor and friend, chef Vikas Khanna, among others – also prepared, served, and ate langar. Sharing a video of the time spent at the Golden Temple, Vikas Khanna said, “When you dedicate your honours to your ancestors. Thank you Guneet for showing us the power of humility and love. Your glory is forever immortal.” In the video, Guneet Monga is also seen holding her Oscar statuette and praying.
Watch the video here:
Guneet Monga's trip to the Golden Temple is a result of a promise made by the Michelin Star chef's mother to Guneet. Vikas Khanna's mother had promised to drive Guneet to the Golden Temple if she won the Oscar and the promise was kept. Share a video of his mother driving Guneet from the airport, Vikas Khanna wrote, “From being a dreamer to becoming one of the most powerful producers in the world. Here it to you Guneet, you made every Indian wealthier. My Ma had said 2 months ago that if Guneet wins an Oscar, I'll drive her to The Golden Temple,” with several heart emojis.
Replying to the post, Karan Tacker wrote, “How cute!” Singer Zara Khan said, “OMG this is so beautiful! That shot of aunty driving is all LOVE.” Kunal Vijaykar added, “Proud moment for all of us.”
The Elephant Whisperers won the award in the Best Documentary Short Subject category.
In addition to the love and support from Vikas Khanna, Guneet Monga also received several notes of appreciation from members of the film fraternity. Among them came a special message from Guneet's friend Huma Qureshi. The actress shared a video in which she is holding the Oscar statuette in her hand and giving it a kiss. In the note attached to the clip, Huma praised Guneet for her tremendous body of work. She wrote, “My first producer (Gangs of Wasseypur), friend, almost flatmate (that's how my name is still saved on her phone) Guneet Monga. I'm so proud of you. Thank you for showing us how it's done. You are an inspiration, girl.”
“Living her best life, winning an Oscar for India on her 3-month anniversary…stuff fairytales are made of. I've seen your hustle, your passion, your drive and just sticking it out in an all-boys club. All I can say is...that this is just the beginning,” Huma Qureshi continued, “Oh and thank you for letting me touch and record these ridiculous videos with ‘Goldie' … now I'm just going to have to get my own so we can pose together.
The Elephant Whisperers traces the story of Raghu, an orphaned elephant calf who is taken care of by Bomman and Belli, an indigenous couple living in Mudumalai National Park. The documentary, directed by Kartiki Gonsalves, is available for streaming on Netflix.