The Laughing Club of India and Battu's Bioscope

Mira Nair, the director of Salaam Bombay! and Mississippi Masala, brings us this cheery glimpse of the genesis, philosophy, and infectious popularity of the Bombay-based Laughing Clubs, founded by Dr. Maidan Kataria. Early each morning, mostly middle-class folks meet for their regular exercise regimen, a series of laughs, guffaws, and chortles. This technique, premised on the idea that laughter is the best medicine, has caught on throughout India, as a sort of taibo with giggles. If this captivating film doesn't raise a smile on your face, you should see a doctor. Produced by Adam Bartos. (30 mins, In Marathi with English subtitles, Color, 16mm, From Mirabai Films)

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