The Guru (2002 film)

The Guru is a 2002 romantic comedy film directed by Daisy von Scherler Mayer. The film stars Jimi Mistry as Ramu Gupta, a dance instructor from India who travels to New York City seeking fame and fortune.

Upon arrival, Ramu finds himself struggling to find work and accidentally becomes mistaken for a spiritual guru after a misunderstanding involving a pornographic actress named Sharonna, played by Heather Graham. Sharonna, in turn, uses him to improve her own acting and performance skills.

As Ramu embraces his new role as "The Guru," he dispenses simplistic and often misinterpreted advice based on Bollywood film clichés. He unexpectedly gains a large following, attracting attention from celebrities and socialites. The film explores themes of cultural clashes, identity, and the search for meaning in a superficial society.

The supporting cast includes Marisa Tomei, Michael McKean, and Christine Baranski. The film features Bollywood-inspired musical numbers and dance sequences. While not a major box office success, The Guru received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its lighthearted humor and cultural observations, while others found it predictable and formulaic. The film's soundtrack also received attention for its blend of traditional Indian music and contemporary pop sounds.