Varanasi: ``Had there been multiplexes and proactive television broadcasting, my films would have sneaked into the lives of commoners, instead of staying confined to a particular societal class,'' is the candid confession of renowned filmmaker and Rajya Sabha member Shyam Benegal.

Talking to mediapersons here on Sunday, he said his films had remained confined to a part of society, despite depicting the true picture of the mainstream India.

``Had there been multiplexes and proactive television broadcasting, my films would have become part of commoners, much the same as serials directed by me did,'' he said.

The critically acclaimed filmmaker has directed three teleserials — Bharat Ek Khoj, Yatra and Sankranti — first two of which have been a major hit with the small screen audience.

Maintaining multiplexes have revolutionised Indian cinema, Mr. Benegal said they provided all shades of cinema — spanning from masala, reality and foreign films under a single roof.

``Had there been multiplexes in our times, parallel cinema — a rebellion against the run of mill and fantasy oriented Indian cinema — would have been liked by the masses.

Mr. Benegal also lauded young film directors including Farhan Akhtar, Nagesh Kuknoor and Vishal Bhardwaj for providing diverse variety.

Denying prospects of him directing TV serials in the near future, Mr. Benegal said: ``Serials directed by me were aimed at introducing the country to ourselves.'' They were financed by the Government, but now only money-making ventures were being beamed by TV channels, which were difficult for me to make.'' — UNI

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