Dubai: Renowned filmmaker Subhash Ghai said yesterday (Dec 8, 2004) that he is releasing his latest movie "Kisna", a British-Indian story set before India's independence, on January 21 and hopes it will be his best ever.

One of only two directors being honoured at the first Dubai International Film Festival, Ghai screened brief glimpses of the $ 6 million film that is set at the foothills of the Himalayas, pre-1947.

"With 'Kisna' a different challenge arose," says the director, who has made more than 15 films.

"We had heard a lot of stories about hatred between the Indians and the British who ruled India for two hundred years," he said.

"That's when I met this group of British citizens who had amazing stories to tell us about India, about its magnificent culture, divine energies, great human values in spite of diversities and their strong belief in loyalty, sacrifice, love and respect for relationships.

"We've put all efforts into making this the best film by Mr Ghai," he told reporters.

Ghai's two films "Pardes" and "Taal", which was the first Indian picture to break into the US box office Top 20, are being screened at the festival, which has been launched in a bid to help bridge cultural gaps.

"We have to understand the importance of festivals, we bring the world closer together," he said. "Festivals are becoming an important part of national progress."