Pune's penchant for whimsical boards makes it to celluloid

Called the cultural capital of the state, the city is also known for its strange habit of displaying boards with many suggestions for others. This habit has made Punekars famous, with others making fun of it.u00a0The most commonly seen board at a Punekar's house is the one that says: "Don't press the bell a second time, otherwise we won't open the door."

"Board-fanatic Punekars sound rude, but it also makes for some fun," said Gautam Joglekar, a young filmmaker who is directing a film called Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha.u00a0Born and educated in the city, Joglekar is now settled in Mumbai.u00a0"This is a special creativity only observed among Punekars which sometimes enlightens the readers," he said.u00a0

"We used these boards in a song on Pune -- Dhanya Punya Nagari, Avaghya Maharashtrachi Shann (Pune is great and the pride of Maharashtra) -- recited by Sandesh Umap and penned by me."u00a0The idea of displaying the fun Puneri boards came from his assistant Sanjay Mone, who has also acted in the film. These boards were painted by Satish Pimpalkhare. "It was real fun painting these boards. I couldn't resist laughing while painting these boards," he said.

Sudhir Gadgil, who has travelled all over the world for performances, said: "Puneri patya (boards) are already famous in the east and west where Maharastrians are staying. They do make fun of the Punekars and also envy them for their habit. This is the typical Punekar's attitude and he can express his anger or pass comments by writing boards and displaying them."u00a0

Referring to a Puneri board he saw on a website, Gadgil said: "A Punekar beggar is sleeping under a tree with his pot for keeping coins given by passers-by. A board nearby says: 'Don't disturb my sleep, and put the coin in the pot without making any noise!"

>> Photocopy shop's board

'We provide Xerox in all languages.'

>>u00a0For those seeking a suitable boy

'Please don't bother to visit our house as our son's marriage is already fixed.'

>>u00a0Outside a houseu00a0

'This bungalow is empty and there are no valuables left inside. Please don't bother to go inside for burglary.'

>>u00a0A photographer's board

'We are not responsible if you don't like your own picture. This is the sole responsibility of your father.'