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August, 2020

HOT TARGET

KAREENA Alvida completes two decades in showbiz SHOT EXCLUSIVELY BY TO WRAP UP 8 POST LOCKDOWN Volume 69 # August 2020 / ISSN NUMBER 0971-7277

August, 2020

HOT TARGET ABHISHEK BACHCHAN

KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN Alvida completes two SAROJ KHAN decades in showbiz SHOT EXCLUSIVELY BY SAIF ALI KHAN AKSHAY KUMAR TO WRAP UP 8 FILMS POST LOCKDOWN

PHOTOGRAPH: SAIF ALI KHAN

Editor’s Choice 28 20 years of Kareena 03 Kapoor Khan The perils of 72 coronavirus 38

Karisma Kapoor is in a 42 happy space right now 46 remembers 42 Lyricist Sameer reflects 06 50 on the current state of music 09 Masala fix Fashion and Remembering 54 Jagdeep in the lifestyle Goodbye, 06 sequel, Couple Hiral Bhatia 56 Kumkum Akshay Kumar to finish 22 and Rohit Bhatkar Looking back with eight films post give away hairstyling 58 affection at Saroj Khan lockdown, Deepika secrets The best dance Padukone- to 62 numbers star together Exclusives choreographed by Preview Exclusive cover story: Saroj Khan 28 Khan Your say Vishal Jethwa is happy tells it like it is 12 with the success of Abhishek Bachchan Readers send in 2 38 on completing 20 68 their rants wants to make years in the industry ’s 18 more films like and more 70 wacky witticisms Letter from the Editor 20 Years of Kareena She’s now known as Kareena Kapoor Khan. Back then, she was known as Bebo, Lolo’s younger sister. When was the last time I called Kareena Bebo or Karisma Lolo? How time flies. She has had her share of ups and downs since then. Was part of some good, some great films. Had her set of affairs. Got married. Had a kid. While others of her batch have all but disappeared, she’s still going strong. Still getting author-backed roles. Still possesses an hourglass figure. It doesn’t look like much has changed for her in the last two decades. Has it? Back when she was launched with Refugee (2000), there was a huge buzz around her. She had reportedly refused Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai to work with JP Dutta. The press wrote about her supposed affair with . Today, we ’t see that hoopla anymore. Newbies are launched in a detached, clinical manner. Their replies, their clothes, their abs look perfectly sculpted. But Kareena wasn’t like that. She was her own person. Chatty, inquisitive. And such a natural in front of the camera. Refugee was praised to the skies but bombed at the box-office. She got her first hit opposite Tusshar in Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai (2001). She played the good-looking Punjabi girl-next-door in it. Her effervescence carried the day. Her first blockbuster came ironically with Hrithik in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), where her character, Poo, got immortalised. People still remember Poo. I guess Poo got a little older and wiser as Geet in (2007). It was ’s version of Poo. She grew on you. And it was a perfect pairing with . Many were left heart broken when their real-life jodi broke up. They starred together again in (2016). But weren’t paired opposite each other. Kareena has been accused of doing one commercial after another. People say she has been wasted in films like and Bodyguard. It’s said her best film as an actor is Heroine (2012). She certainly gave her all to the role. Pushing her limits, laying bare her heart. Sadly, the film bombed. Would she have charted a different route if it hadn’t? I loved her as Kalindi in (2019). She was no arm candy but played today’s woman dealing with today’s problems. It was just the right role for her. Maybe, she should opt for more such roles that cater to the actor in her and not the star... Here’s to 20 more years of movies and memories...

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DISCLAIMER FOR PROTECTION OF PRIVACY AND INFORMATION EAST Any information received by us through responses by Users/ Subscribers to the Short Messaging Services (SMS) Key Codes or such other subscription service of ours will be used in whole or part, in our publications (other than contact ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT information), for our research, individual marketing, strategic client analysis and for other internal purposes and all copyrights in such information will vest with us. Your contact information shall not be sold, traded, rented or in any Alka Kakar way divulged to anythird party unless we are legally bound to do the same. [email protected] Hrithik Roshan NEW NORMAL Varun Dhawan in Good Now that the lockdown restrictions have been Newwz sequel pg 06 lifted partially, the denizens of showbiz are slowly Akshay Kumar to complete 8 trying to get their lives on track. The way ahead isn’t going to be smooth for sure. Wearing masks films post the lockdownpg 08 and shields is going to be the new normal. Stars like Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor and Aditya Roy PHOTOGRAAPH: YOGEN SHAH Kapur have already taken to it. MASALA FIX

Ajay Devgn and GOOD Sidharth Malhotra to begin Thank God NEWWZ in September FOR VARUN DHAWAN Looks like there might be some good news for Varun Dhawan. The actor is all set to replace in the sequel to Good Newwz (2019). The film, which starred Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Diljit and Sidharth Malhotra Dosanjh and was are all set to star together for the first a blockbuster. A close source time in ’s Thank God. revealed that director Raj Mehta The film is said to be a remake of the has already cracked the idea for AMITABH, ABHISHEK, AISHWARYA hit Danish film Sorte Kugler (2019). the sequel and has discussed AND AARADHYA TEST POSITIVE The original was known for its ribald it with producer Johar humour and we hope this Indra and got a green signal from him. FOR COVID-19 Kumar-Ajay Devgn collaboration too Varun is quite excited about the The whole nation was jolted when , Abhishek will have us rolling in the aisles. Ajay development and has reportedly Bachchan, and Aaradhya Bachchan tested Devgn who has the remake of Kaithi, given his nod to the project. positive for the coronavirus. The thespian along with his son Abhishek was as well as portions of Maidaan admitted to Nanavati hospital in Mumbai. After a few days, Aishwarya left to complete, will begin the first and Aaradhya were also shifted to the same hospital. The country came schedule of the film in September in together to pray for the recovery of the Bachchan family. To stave off any Mumbai. A portion of the film also possible confusion, Mr Bachchan kept updating about his and his families needs to be shot on foreign locales. health via social media. Amitabh, Aishwarya and Aaradhya had been The makers will plan that once the discharged from the hospital at the time of going to the press. international travel restrictions are lifted. Fingers crossed! , AND TO STAR IN PHONE BHOOT We kept hearing rumours that Katrina Kaif might work with ’s . Well, Farhan recently confirmed that when he took to his social media to share the first look of his upcoming production titled Phone Bhoot. The film stars Katrina Kaif, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Ishaan Khatter. In the first look, we see the three leading stars suited in black, with candid expressions on their faces. Farhan Akhtar tweeted the first look saying, ‘The one-stop-shop for all bhoot-related problems, #PhoneBhoot ringing in your nearest cinema in 2021.’ The first look of Phone Bhoot left us brimming with curiosity. We wonder if this is a horror-comedy or something else entirely. Let’s hope we see this film in theatres in 2021.

ONE RUMOUR THAT’S MAKING THE ROUNDS IS THAT IS DATING HER DANGAL CO-STAR . REFUTING THE GOSSIP, FATIMA TOLD FILMFARE, “OUT OF NOWHERE THERE IS THIS RUMOUR THAT SANYA AND I ARE DATING. I HAVE NO ISSUES. I’M PRO EVERYBODY, LIKING WHOEVER THEY WANT. WE ARE BEST FRIENDS. JUST THAT WE ARE CONSTANTLY TOGETHER. BUT I TOLD SANYA THAT WE SHOULD JUST ACCEPT PEOPLE’S REACTIONS. SOME PEOPLE GET SHAKEN UP THAT A GIRL CAN LOVE ANOTHER GIRL.” LOVE WILL FIND A WAY, AS THEY SAY. stronger hair

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AKSHAY KUMAR TO TO PLAY A COP COMPLETE 8 FILMS Just before the lockdown was implemented, POST THE LOCKDOWN saw HIT – The First Case starring Akshay Kumar now has some eight films Vishwak Sen and Ruhani Sharma seeking his attention. He was forced to hitting the screens. The film did take a break because of the lockdown. DEEPIKA great business and was loved Now that the filmmakers are planning by the critics and the audiences to slowly start shooting, the actor has PADUKONE alike. But due to the lockdown, the his plans laid out. Kumar will first film sadly had a short run at the work on the spy-thriller, Bell Bottom. TO STAR theatres. Now HIT – The First Case Akshay and team are going to shoot the OPPOSITE will have a remake and will film in Scotland for a month in August. star none other than the versatile They’re reportedly going to fly there soon PRABHAS actor Rajkummar Rao in the lead. on private jets. They will also shoot a few Prabhas’ 21st film is one of the Rajkummar, who has been known scenes in India. He is also planning to most talked-about projects currently to experiment with his roles, is shoot YRF’s Prithviraj Chauhan by October and will be helmed by director going to play the role of a troubled end. Akshay then has helmed Nag Ashwin of fame. cop who works in the Homicide by Aanand L Rai and starring Sara Ali Speculation about the leading intervention team and is on the trail Khan and . Akki is required to lady for this sci-fi drama was rife of a missing woman. Confirming shoot for two weeks for this unusual love and a dozen names were bandied this news, Rajkummar said, “When story. He has signed another film with Rai about. The production house I watched Hit, I instantly connected titled Raksha Bandhan, which will hit the Vyjayanthi Films put all the rumours with the story. It’s engaging and theatres on November 5, 2021. Finally, to rest by announcing that Deepika relevant in today’s times. As an he will start work on ’s Padukone will be starring opposite actor, I am always on the lookout Bachchan Pandey by December-January. Prabhas. The production house for characters I have not explored Next year, he has ’s film, released a video, commemorating before and HIT gives me the which is a remake of a Telugu film and a their 50 years in the film industry chance to do that.” It is a hit film with as well. Being and announced that they are combination, alright. a workhorse, we’re sure he’s going to excited to work with Deepika. With spring off to the finish line in no time. Deepika on board for this big- budget drama, the film will surely garner a nationwide appeal. Road named after Rajput Politicians in ’s hometown Purnea in Bihar have done something special in the memory of the late actor. They have renamed a road in Purnea after the actor. His fans thronged in large numbers even amidst the lockdown to see their beloved actor’s name on the commemorative marker and were touched by the special gesture. Mayor Savita Devi spoke to a daily saying that as a mark of respect and tribute to the late Sushant, a roundabout and a road is being named after him. The Ford company roundabout will be called Sushant Singh Rajput chowk and the road that goes from Madhubani to Mata Chowk will be renamed as Sushant Singh Rajput road. His was a road less travelled but the road named after him will be well-travelled.

ANUPAM KHER’S MOTHER DULARI TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID-19. SHE WAS THEN ADMITTED TO KOKILABEN HOSPITAL. THANKFULLY SHE RESPONDED WELL TO THE TREATMENT. SHE WAS SOON DECLARED NEGATIVE AND RETURNED HOME HEALTHY ONCE AGAIN. MASALA FIX

Vidya Balan to RANVEER TO DO A start shooting GUEST APPEARANCE for Sherni ’s Sherni was put on IN ALIA’S NEXT the backburner after the lockdown was implemented in March this year. Sherni has Vidya playing a forest officer, who wants to find a solution to the man-animal conflict. She had started shooting the film on March 3 which also happens to be World Wildlife Day. The actress was shooting in when the government implemented the lockdown. Now the makers DILJIT DOSANJH are planning to start shooting the TO STAR IN SINGH ’s will always be a special film post the monsoons. Directed SOORMA film for several reasons. One was ’s by Amit Masurkar, Sherni will be The ex-hockey player, who was and ’s magnificent performances. The shot on live locations in the forests known as Flicker Singh for his two were appreciated for their chemistry. Now of Madhya Pradesh. It will be prowess in converting penalty Ranveer Singh is all set to do a cameo in Alia’s interesting to watch Vidya Balan in corners, and currently ’s . The actor an all-new avatar, don’t you think? sports and youth affairs minister shares a special bond with both Alia and the film’s Sandeep Singh’s journey is quite director . It’s said to be a inspiring. His biopic Soorma powerful cameo. Alia and Ranveer have shared (2018), directed by and a special rapport from the time they worked starring and Diljit together in Gully Boy. So Dosanjh was based on his journey Ranveer had absolutely no as a hockey player. After tasting reason to decline the offer. success with Soorma, the makers And he simply can’t say no have decided to make a sequel to SLB. Is he playing Haji to the film which will focus on the Mastaan? -- is what we political journey of Sandeep Singh. would like to know. It will be titled Singh Soorma. Sandeep confirmed the news on Twitter with a post, “After the Success & love showered by all on Soorma now starting with The REPORTEDLY, IS CHARGING 16 CRORES Onward Journey of Sandeep Singh PER EPISODE FOR THE NEW SEASON OF BIGG BOSS. as Singh Soorma with my Bro and IT’S THE HIGHEST FEES ANY STAR HAS CHARGED Producer Deepak Singh. Seek Ur FOR A DAY’S SHOOT ON TELEVISION. Blessings and support.” TAAPSEE PANNU’S NEXT SHABAASH MITHU TO BE SHOT IN LONDON After being caged in the lockdown for more than 100 days, the film industry is gradually returning to normalcy. One of the projects which is being readied to take off as soon as the travel restrictions get lifted is the sports drama Shabaash Mithu. The film stars Taapsee Pannu who will play the role of cricketer Mithali Raj on screen. For the unversed, Mithali was the skipper of Indian women’s cricket team and has made our nation proud through her various achievements. A major chunk of the film needs to be shot in London. But as of now, no one has a clear picture when the ban on shooting abroad will get lifted. Ajit Andhare, the COO of Viacom 18 Studios said, “We have to figure out when it will be possible to shoot in the UK. At the moment, we are zeroing in on the venues while mapping the dates to suit all parties involved. Location hunting has been quite a challenge as recce is out of the question and we have to rely on pictures to determine if a venue is suitable for shooting. As a producer, I am jittery taking a call on something that we haven’t seen.” Let’s hope the film zooms off to London soon. MASALA FIX ALIA BHATT IN ’S FILM? A while ago, it was announced that the Oscar-winning sound designer turned producer Resul Pookutty is DUTT ROOTS FOR working on his debut venture. We hear that the film is inspired by the current DABBAWALAS tensions of India and at the showed concern and border and will feature Alia Bhatt urged all to support the dabbawalas, in the lead role. The film is a story considered as Mumbai’s lifeline. of an Indian soldier named Baba Taking to social media, the actor Harbhajan Singh. The film apparently wrote, “The dabbawalas have been will also include Prime Minister serving us for decades & bringing ’s recent visit to the food to so many Mumbaikars. army camp in Ladakh. The film is a Now is the time when we should love saga set against the backdrop come forward and support them.” VIDYA BALAN STRIKES AT MISOGYNY of Indo-China war that took place in Earlier too, the Bhai MBBS Vidya Balan’s Natkhat, a short film, premiered at the We Are One: Global Film 1967 at Nathula. Talking about the star had pitched in to feed a Festival. Directed by Shaan Vyas and written by Annukampa Harsh and Vyas, project, Resul Pookutty said, “The thousand families in Mumbai. it takes a hard-hitting look at misogyny, which often begins at home. Vidya current tension between India and Sanjay has plum projects in the plays an abused housewife, whose escape lies in the company of her son China is already a part of our film. It’s pipeline including KGF: Chapter 2, (Sanika Patel). The 33-minute film revolves around a mother educating bizarre that we had already written it Shamshera, Bhuj: The Pride of India, her son about gender equality. The film is co-produced by Vidya Balan along and it just happened. I believe that Torbaaz and 2. with Ronnie Screwvala. Baba is there guarding our border. Our script is almost ready. We will take it to Army officials and get their HAS COMPLETED TWO DECADES IN feedback.” Looks interesting for sure! THE ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS. FROM BEING CROWNED AS IN 2000 TO RULING BOLLYWOOD LIKE A TRUE QUEEN, PRIYANKA REALLY IS A STAR IN EVERY SENSE. SHE SHARED A SPECIAL VIDEO AND WROTE, “THANK YOU @OZZYPRODUCTION AND ALL OF YOU FOR SUCH A BEAUTIFUL REMINDER OF THESE 20 YEARS SINCE I STARTED IN THIS BUSINESS. I HOPE TO MEET YOU ALL SOMEDAY. MEANWHILE, I WANT TO CELEBRATE WITH ALL OF YOU… STAY TUNED! THANK YOU #PCMANIACS.” MADHURI’S ALL FOR PAY CUTS A concerned -Nene has come out in support of producers given the economic crisis in the industry, caused by the coronavirus. She reportedly said that everyone would need to take pay cuts to help the film industry tide over what is looking like losses worth over 3000 crores. Taapsee Pannu too had seconded the probability of pay cuts to get the industry rolling once again. Industry pundits believe that it’s important, not only for the stars but also for highly paid technicians, to fall in line given the adversity. movies on the block, set-talk, talent-buzz, hotties to watch out for A SUITABLE GIRL TANYA MANIKTALA X FACTOR: STRONG SCREEN PRESENCE

Hailing from , Tanya Maniktala started acting while she was in college. She'd enrolled herself in the theatre society of Shivaji College. After graduation, she tried her hand at acting in front of the camera in The Timeliners’ show Flames. Soon her zeal of not settling into a set pattern made her take up a job as a copywriter. After she made up her mind that she was born to act, she quit everything else and plunged into acting full-time. That’s exactly when opportunity knocked on her door. When she was called to audition for ’s , she didn’t know what she was auditioning for. After waiting for a couple of days post her Delhi audition, the newcomer talked to Mira Nair over a video call. Soon the ace director flew in to audition Tanya in person. She aced that test as well and the project was in her hand. Her dream journey in showbiz began with a bang. Tanya has been getting glowing reports for her performance. Looks like she has a bright future ahead of her.

Meet newbie actor Vishal Jethwa and director Om Raut pg 12 FUTURE STOCK Enter the villain

RAGHUVENDRA SINGH MEETS UP WITH VISHAL JETHWA, WHO IMPRESSED AUDIENCES WITH HIS VILLAINOUS ACT IN MARDAANI 2

ardaani 2 is Vishal has been one of those overwhelmed by all the rare films, outpouring of ‘love’, to say which has been the least. He recounts how Mnarrated by the villain in after one of the screenings, the first person. Vishal a woman came up and Jethwa plays Sunny – a thanked his mother for psychopath, who rapes giving birth to such a and murders girls for fun. fine actor like him. The He’s so good at being bad actor was thrilled to bits that he’s been applauded by that as he adores his left, right and centre for mother. “I lost my father his performance. The in 2008. Since then my young actor has proved his mother took over the potential no doubt. responsibility of my elder sister and me. My mother worked as a saleswoman at a supermarket. Later she started selling items like purses, kurtis, t-shirts and all from home. She has even served food at weddings to earn that extra buck,” shares an emotional Vishal. He started his career as a background dancer in 2009. He danced with Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn and during the promotions of . That’s when the acting bug bit him. Vishal thought of joining an acting class in his vicinity in Mira Road. But the high fees put him off. His mother arranged for

A shot from the personal album Mardaani 2 the money and got him enrolled. “I started doing Aditya Chopraji said there’s a difference between theatre and later joined TV. In my first serial, Parvarish a two-minute audition and a two-hour film. He - Kuch Khatti Kuch Meethi (2011), I was only required mentioned that my co-star would be . to laugh,” he recalls. His So I’d have to be at my best big break came in 2013 with Bharat Ke Veer rounds of auditions. From at their first meeting itself. get under the skin of his Putra-Maharana Pratap, 250 candidates, three “She shook my hands and complex character, he where he got to play were shortlisted. Later, he said, ‘We’ll be friends on attended workshops. He young , apart from was the only one left. He the sets. You can come visited Meerut to grasp the roles in shows like Crime was then asked to meet to me anytime to discuss body language and get the Petrol, Peshwa Bajirao YRF head honcho, Aditya anything’.” He reveals ethnicity right. Moreover, and Diya Aur Baati Hum. Chopra. Vishal put on that the fight scenes with it was his fake innocence A prudent Vishal didn’t his best clothes and was her were difficult to that made it a menacing neglect his education and nervous as hell till he set execute because she was portrayal. managed to gain a B. Com foot inside ’s still the iconic actor, he’d Vishal is keen to work degree despite the hectic cabin. The filmmaker’s grown up watching. He with directors like Sanjay schedules. affable attitude put him at was afraid he might hurt Leela Bhansali and Imtiaz ease immediately. “Adi sir her. “It would have been Ali. He hasn’t signed he actor mentions told me there’s a difference different if she was a guy anything post Mardaani that there are between a two-minute because we would have 2 but plans to announce several, who audition and a two-hour become pals by then. But something big soon. He never get a film. I should keep that in I could barely manage mentions he’s afraid of Tchance to step inside YRF mind. He mentioned that to talk to her and hence the high life and wants to Studios their entire lives. my co-star would be Rani fighting with her was remain the same guy, who So it was a dream-come- Mukerji. So I’d have to be difficult. The underwater helps his mother in the true when he got a call at my best throughout. He shots were difficult as kitchen. “My sister calls from Shanoo Sharma, the advised me to surrender well. We both don’t know me a scaredy-cat but I can’t casting head at the studio. myself completely to the how to swim,” he reveals. let go of my nature. Maybe A few days later, he met director’s vision.” Though his character is in future, I’ll let go of my Gopi Puthran, the director Vishal was apprehensive called Sunny in the film, inhibitions and get used of Mardaani 2, with whom about acting with Rani paradoxically he lives in to the stardom.” We agree he had to undergo five but she allayed his fears a dark mental space. To with you Vishal. n FEATURE TAKING THE Dr Aneel Kashi Murarka ROAD LESS TRAVELLED How philanthropist DR ANEEL KASHI MURARKA is bringing about change in the lives of the common man! r Aneel Kashi Murarka is a reputed, Mumbai-based industrialist and philanthropist. He is the managing director of Mirachem Industriies and the founder Dof social enterprise Ample Missiion. Humble to the core, Aneel Murarka’s approach to business, "THE OBJECTIVE OF philanthropy and social work does not just PHILANTHROPY IS TO encompass the resources he provides to make a difference to peoples’ lives, but also in the way he IMPACT PEOPLE’S LIVES approaches societal challenges. POSITIVELY AND IN TURN EVOLVE A BETTER A patriot to the core, Aneel is the grandson of SOCIETY AND NATION. freedom fighter and philanthropist Chiranjilal PHILANTHROPY FOR THE Murarka and son of industrialist Kashi Murarka who SAKE OF PHILANTHROPY continues to undertake major socio-developmental IS OF NO USE AT ALL" activities. Aneel leaves no opportunity unturned to serve society and the nation at large. By playing different roles, he – DR ANEEL KASHI has successfully worked towards addressing a wide range Dr Aneel Kashi Murarka MURARKA of social issues that plagues society and our country. with son Sidhaant

True to his humanitarian values, Aneel is deeply passionate Aneel Murarka is responsible for the contruction of a about the causes he believes in. It is this intense personal crematorium named “Shivdham” which, with its modern interest that inspires his philanthropic goals with a “bold facilities, is now considered one of the best crematoriums and articulate vision” on furthering the cause. His work in Mumbai. What’s worth a mention is that people who for gender equality by providing opportunities to the cannot afford to perform the last rites of their loved ones, transgender community, creating employment avenues are granted whatever they need. It’s evident that change- for neglected acid-attack survivours and specially-abled makers such as Aneel Murarka are taking philanthropic persons is really commendable and worth appreciating. decisions based on mind and heart, and are moving away from 'funding-only' roles to becoming active Through Ample Missiion’s Tribal initiatives, he reaches collaborators for the betterment of people. “The objective out to marginalised communities living in darkness, of philanthropy is to impact people’s lives positively and, deprived of basic needs with no sources of income. Using in turn, evolve a better society and nation. Philanthropy his entrepreneural skills and expertise, he is working on for the sake of philanthropy is of no use at all,” Dr Murarka creating sustainable income sources for these neglected says. It cannot be denied that an emotional connection to communities. Aneel and his son Sidhaant, along with Team philanthropy is what sustains one’s giving over time, and Ample Missiion, are actively pursuing many urban-focused Aneel focuses not only on inputs — funds and expertise initiatives such as -children’s education, feeding the — but also on the outcomes, to assess the effectiveness urban poor and homeless, and filling potholes as a weekend of his philanthropic measures. In doing so, he and his activity to prevent the loss of lives from road accidents. team are able to tackle the social problems of people in a Ample Missiion is also involved in inculcating good hygiene holistic way and ensure that the solutions are sustainable. habits among school kids and slum children. By partnering with like-minded social organisations, he participates in On a positive note, we can safely conclude that when it a wide range of humanitarian causes across many states comes to active participation in philanthropy, people such of India. These include rural healthcare activities such as Dr Aneel Kashi Murarka are increasingly diversifying as propagating computer literacy among village kids, their modes of engagement and appreciating the activities constructing toilets and sanitation facilities for poor families, that go beyond cheque writing — a trend that truly reflects Swachh Abhiyan activities and saving kids from death by the maturity and immense promise of philanthropy in a malnutrition. new India. PROMOTION

on numerous prestigious commercial Shantanu Garg, the undisputed and residential projects not just in India champion of the but internationally as well. His designs, India-modern aesthetic, comes whether seen in residential, commercial on board as the or retail spaces, or even the exhibitions curator for D/code Design or experiences that he curates, are based Biennale, Jaipur on a beautiful blend of contemporary Edition. minimalism and traditional extravagance. It is this passion to carve a distinct identity for Indian design that led to his collaboration with the D/code Design Biennale (DDB). As curator of the virtual edition of D/code Design Biennale, (Phase I of Jaipur Design Biennale), he brings together over 50 illustrious

names in the worlds of art, design and architecture. “Through DDB, we aim to essay the fables of rich Indian heritage, Premium Italian Wood Finishes culture and traditions and In Conversation with SHANTANU GARG Young and dynamic, architectural designer Shantanu Garg is synonymous with the India-modern design aesthetic

hantanu Garg is the narrate its architectural history. undisputed champion of From the influence of multiple modern Indian design. dynasties that had ruled this Through his eponymous country to a confluence of design practice, Shantanu crossover boundaries and styles in Garg Design, he advocates modern Indian design narratives, transforming design we wish to project India through its into idiosyncratic concepts, turning crafts and artisanal approach,” says themS into compositions derived largely the designer, whose own designs are from customisation. He is on a quest to evocative of the rich cultural heritage create spaces that are an amalgamation of India. “It’s about time that Indian of international design aesthetics and designers get their due. It’s about functionality, whilst catering to native time that we not only provide a sensibilities and demands. platform for them to showcase their Shantanu took on his first project when designs, but also catapult them to he was barely 18. Since then, he’s worked the International design arena.”

meet the Curator_DSP_filfare size-STAN_R1.indd 2 05-08-2020 12.24.02 PM PROMOTION

From the influence of multiple dynasties that had ruled this country to the confluence of crossover boundaries and styles in modern Indian design narratives, we wish to project India through its crafts and artisanal approach.

— Shantanu Garg, Interior Designer

meet the Curator_DSP_filfare size-STAN_R1.indd 3 05-08-2020 12.24.03 PM FUTURE STOCK

OM RAUT HAS SOUNDED THE VICTORY BUGLE WITH HIS HINDI DEBUT, TANHAJI: THE UNSUNG WARRIOR, MAKING WRITES SHARMA HISTORY anhaji: The Unsung Warrior, directed by Om Raut, is so far the highest-grossingT Hindi film of 2020 fetching almost 300 crores. Set in the 17th century, it’s based on the life of Tanhaji Malusare, a valiant military leader in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s () army. The film depicts Tanhaji’s (Ajay Devgn) attempts to recapture the Kondhana fort from Aurangzeb (Luke Kenny). The Mughal emperor had transferred its control to his trusted guard Udaybhan Singh Rathore (Saif Ali Khan). Om says it was always a dream to bring Tanhaji, the unsung hero to life. “Our history is full of dedicated people, who fought for the country. I want the masses to be proud of such heroes and through them, of our

Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior Om Raut PRESENTS

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TO PARTICIPATE, COLLABORATE AND KNOW MORE... WRITE TO US AT [email protected] OR LOG ON TO www.goodhomes.co.in/dcode FUTURE STOCK own history and heritage,” some time with the he declares. MTV network there. It wasn’t difficult for “I lived a great life there. Om to get Ajay Devgn on A comfortable apartment, board for Tanhaji. He had a fancy car, a lovely job… approached Ajay in 2017. But I wanted to make my The actor got so excited by own kind of films,” he the idea that he offered to shares. He moved to India produce the film as well. and directed his first film Om is impressed with the in Marathi, Lokmanya: superstar’s work ethics. Ek Yug Purush (2015), “Ajay is like an octopus. based on the life of the He has so many things great freedom fighter going on. At the same time, starring Subodh Bhave. he’s extremely focussed He won the Filmfare Best about what he’s asked to Debut Director Award do. He’s a director’s actor. in Marathi for it. The simplicity with which Om has acted in he portrays a character Karamati Coat (1993). is remarkable,” gushes He has also produced the director. The film is films like City Of Gold also Ajay’s 100th and a (2010) and Haunted 3D milestone in his career.

e also has nice things to say about Saif, who played antagonist HUdaybhan Singh. He’s impressed by Saif’s perfectionist streak. “Saif always says I can do better I’M A PETROLHEAD than this. He just goes on and on. Every take is an OF SORTS AND improvement over the LIKE TO TAKE OFF last.” Om mentions that this hunger to excel is the ON IMPROMPTU reason why actors like VACATIONS. THE OPEN Ajay and Saif have had such long careers. “The ROAD HOLDS AN same is true of (plays Lokmanya: Ek Yug Purush ALLURE FOR ME Tanhaji’s wife, Savitribai) as well. The type of (2011). “I acted in films Shuddh Desi Romance, among Hollywood passion she brings to the because I wanted to know Badhaai Ho and filmmakers and Gauri table is fantastic,” what happens behind as examples of Shinde and he maintains. the scenes. I produced a widening spectrum. He among contemporary Om’s mother, Neena films to understand the believes the lines between Hindi directors. Raut, is a National Film business side of it. But art and mainstream have He’s signed Kartik Award winning producer. actually, I’ve always blurred. “Hindi cinema Aaryan for a hush-hush His father, Bharatkumar wanted to be the guy, is on the right track actioner. On the personal Raut, is a well-known who stands next to the and evolving fast. I’m side, Om loves cars author and a Member camera and tells everyone extremely happy to be and motorcycles. “I’m of Parliament. After what to do,” he smiles. part of the film industry,” a petrolhead and like to attaining a Bachelor’s Om believes he’s made he smiles. The film buff take off on impromptu degree in engineering, Om his Hindi debut at a time confesses to be a huge vacations. The open road studied filmmaking at the when things are changing fan of V Shantaram. holds an allure for me,” Syracuse University in for the better. He cites He likes Martin Scorsese smiles the adventure New York. He worked for films like Article 15, and Chirstopher Nolan enthusiast. n They are hot, they are cool. Meet our trend makers and breakers

Sonam Kapoor Ahuja

Hiral Bhatia and Rohit Bhatkar

Kiara Advani

Anand Ahuja and Ahuja TRESS TALES “I can do the most fabulous hairstyle but if it doesn’t go with the rest of your look, then it can be the biggest blunder. It’s the best accessory one can flaunt Sidharth Malhotra if done right”

Hiral Bhatia and Rohit Bhatkar spill some styling secrets to help you get long luscious hair...

Priyanka Chopra FASHION & BEAUTY

FRINGEHAIRSTYLIST COUPLE HIRAL BHATIABENEFITS AND ROHIT BHATKAR SHARE HAIR GROOMING SECRETS WITH ANALITA SETH

Healthy eating, eights hours of sleep and some love and care everyday can give you  Stimulating your healthy and luxurious hair. The husband and wife team of Rohit Bhatkar and Hiral Bhatia follicles promotes share some styling and hair care secrets with us. Hiral has changed the way stars like hair growth. Sonam Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, and Kiara Advani style their hair while Rohit is responsible for Sidharth Malhotra’s messy chocolate boy looks and Farhan  Coconut oil is Akhtar’s neat grooming. Excerpts... amazing for hair and scalp.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE school kid, I’d visit AN OVERALL LOOK? I also think a  Castor oil TO TAKE UP THIS my father’s salon for Rohit: It’s the best hairstyle can make promotes hair PROFESSION? a couple of hours accessory one can or break the look. growth. Hiral Bhatia: I was every weekend. I flaunt, if done right. At the same time, in my last year of used to get inspired When it comes to I can do the most college completing by my father’s creating a look, there fabulous hairstyle GROOMING Botany. My mother work. The whole are three factors but if it doesn’t go TIPS had a small salon thing of making that are considered with the rest of your and I’d spend time others feel good crucial. Hair, make- look, then it can be there scrolling about themselves up and wardrobe. If the biggest blunder. through all the and making them either one of them magazines. Later, I’d look good made me doesn’t gel with the WHO WAS YOUR FIRST decode hairstyles certain that this is others, the look is CELEBRITY CLIENT? and try them on my what I wanted to do incomplete. Hiral: Oberoi. friends. Mom saw in life. Hiral: I couldn’t agree Rohit: I was a hair this creative streak in more with Rohit. assistant on the me and wanted me to HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU nurture it. She took THINK A HAIRSTYLE IS IN me to BBlunt after college. I fell in love with that place the minute I entered it. Hiral with Sonam Kapoor I enrolled there and have been in love  Onion juice with hairdressing mixed with a couple ever since. It’s been of drops of coconut 11 years now. oil or castor oil is Rohit Bhatkar: My beneficial for hair father is also a growth. hairstylist. As a  Banana, eggs Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and honey mask is Kiara Advani Sidharth Malhotra amazing.

 Fermented rice water not only makes the hair soft and shiny it also promotes hair growth.

 Avoid excessive brushing.

 Tie a loose braid Alia Bhatt while sleeping.

“Sonam Kapoor and I love to experiment  Replace cotton and we’re both quite impulsive. The pillow with a whole creative process is great fun” satin one. Priyanka Chopra DOWNLOAD YOUR FAVOURITE MAGAZINES FOR FREE!

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GOOD DESIGN CHANGES EVERYTHING A Times of India Publication @goodhomesmagazine NO 2 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 04 JULY 2020 @goodhomesmagazineindia @goodhomesindia VOLUME 8

The Designers' A Times of India publication Europe’s No. 1 Style Magazine State of Mind SAY NO TO ANAND MENON SHORTCUTS ANNKUR KHOSLA Careful service and APARNA KAUSHIK thoughtful setups IRAM SULTAN Easy Chic PLAY WHILE are trending when MANGESH LUNGARE YOU WORK it comes to dining in ZARIR MULLAN AUGUST 2020 INDIA With our pick of ALSO IN THIS ISSUE the best speakers Future-ready Art in Lockdown and headphones GET SMART products and Volume 13 Issue 5 EASY IDEAS Freebies in Delhi, August 2020 street art in Mumbai, Bangalore TO SAVE ENERGY times of Covid & Kolkata AT HOME JULY, 2020 60 August, 2020 Support LOOK INSIDE HARASSED BY Advocate Homes of the HOMESCHOOLING? We bring in the experts Collaborate R R E Future to sort you out THE INDIA E D I S C O V DESIGN FUND Design Therapy THE BIG MEN’S SPECIAL TRANSFORMATION Aesthetic Durability ed to know a FROM A BARE 50SQFT ne bou HOT TARGET New Virtuality ou t BALCONY TO A MOROCCAN y ABHISHEK g PRESENTS THE ONE INSPIRED HAVEN in BACHCHAN Before and After h DRIVE DESI t y MAN SHOW r HIT THE ROAD TO EXPLORE INDIA ANEW A home inspired Covid-19 e v STYLE by the holidays E DESIGN India AKSHAY Bring home with BIENNALE FILES KUMAR AND OTHERS THAT INDIA’S FIRST CURATED BINGE BEYOND India’s most YOU WILL WANT CANDLES, SCENTS VIRTUAL ART AND DESIGN FESTIVAL DEEP MEASURES, AND VASES the spa JAIPUR stylish men TO CALL YOUR OWN Matteo EDITION BIRYANI DEEP IMPACT CURATED BY SHANTANU GARG FIND INDIA IN GRAINS OF RICE Go vegan GRAZIA YOUNG Thun with these THE OFFICE FASHION AWARDS SECRET INDIA! easy recipes A workspace to 2020 SEEK 20+ HIDDEN boost productivity DESTINATIONS Tech Talk In Your Backyard: ACROSS THE LAND MUST-HAVE KAREENA GADGETS FOR At home with HOUSE ARREST Aditya Seal COOL, CASUAL, KAPOOR Homegrown COMFORTABLE KHAN Alvida brands we

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A Times of India publication JUNE, 2020 60 “When it comes to creating a look, there are three factors that are considered crucial. Hair, make-up and wardrobe. If either one of them doesn’t gel with the others, the look is incomplete”

Hiral with Priyanka Chopra

Rohit Bhatkar with Farhan Akhtar Hiral with Sonam Kapoor Ahuja THREE HAIRCARE/ movie Players and STYLE TIPS FOR got a chance to style MEN AND WOMEN WOULD LIKE TO BURST? Abhishek Bachchan, RESPECTIVELY… Hiral: People think , Neil ROHIT: conditioning can Nitin Mukesh, Use the right cause hair fall but Sikander Kher and shampoo / it’s not true. It just . conditioner for softens the hair. Also, your hair. It makes products that claim ONE PERSON YOU LOVE a big difference to mend split ends TO WORK WITH AND WHY? do not really work. Hiral: Sonam Kapoor. Live a healthy Sidharth Malhotra Hiral Bhatia Split ends are the last We both love to lifestyle if you stage of hair damage. experiment and want great hair campaign. His hair the tension given The only solution is we’re both quite and skin. It’s what on the sides and back with the dryer, brush to trim it off. impulsive. Rhea you eat, drink and was very short so we and also with the Rohit: Plucking or Kapoor is the one how you live that had put some 280 heat. But if the right using products who styles her. matters. pieces of extensions styling products increases grey hair. The whole creative to create the length and equipment are This is false. Grey process, the thought Less is more. and texture. used, it can protect hair is genetic and behind putting a Hiral: My former boss your hair to a certain has got a lot to do look together and HIRAL: Adhuna (Akhtar) extent. with stress levels and executing it is great Get the correct used to say, “you’re Hiral: Anything in lifestyle. fun. shampoo only as good as your moderation is fine. Rohit: My wife Hiral according to last haircut.” And I If you use a lot of ONE HAIR-CARE ROUTINE as she really tests my your scalp type totally live by it. hairspray and don’t THAT EVERYONE MUST skills as a hairdresser and conditioner end up brushing it FOLLOW REGULARLY? and gets the best out according to your IT’S SAID STYLING YOUR off your hair or use a Rohit: Diagnose your of me whenever I am hair type. HAIR REGULARLY CAN lot of wax or heat spa hair and scalp type to doing her hair. CAUSE INTENSE DAMAGE, without using a heat find out what works Change your HOW TRUE IS THAT? protectant, you can for you. ONE LOOK OF YOURS regime according Rohit: Yes excessive cause irreversible Hiral: I advocate THAT YOU LOVE… to every season. styling takes a toll damage to your hair. finding the correct Rohit: I created this on your hair. It products for yourself look for Sidharth Do not blindly leads to dryness and WHAT ARE SOME HAIR and following a Malhotra for a brand follow “trends”. thinning because of CARE MYTHS THAT YOU regime. n what’s on their mind?

HOTTIE AT 40! You’re as old as you look. Simple as that. Not that I want to look sweet 16. I’m proud to be 40. I’m proud to have worked for 20 years. With God’s grace, I will continue working for the next 20 years and proudly so at 50 or 60

Kareena Kapoor Khan on marriage, motherhood and career in the times of coronavirus COVER STORY

Play It again... & again... completes two Kareena Kapoor Khan

decadesrevists in the the moviePHOTOGRAPHS: good business. SAIF times ALI KHAN with Jitesh her Pillaai

tar power she had in spades even when I first met her. From Studio NO. 4 to Studio NO. 6 in , she saw to it that she was dropped in her car. She wasn’t even a star then but had all the makings. She was just ’s little sister waiting in the wings. I watched the rise and rise of Kareena Kapoor Khan in the last twenty years. She completed two decades in June. Besides her acting chops and alabaster skin what made her stay is that unique connect. She just connects. Everyone will tell you that. Everyone has a Bebo story. Most would be funny and diverting. She has the air of those content with life and watching it pass by. Be it as the star attraction for a fashion designer, or a judge on a reality show or in between takes—she’s a chiller. Tension nahi leneka she says. Years ago, she was like a bull in a china shop. Cocking a snook at co-stars, grabbing the best projects in the business, flaunting a killer attitude. She still has all that. But there is restraint, a theraav. The same restraint you see in an Omkara, Asoka, Dev, Chameli or even her debut Refugee. She’s also all super star aura be it K3G or her latest Veere Di Wedding and Good Newwz. She’s to the manner born. I suspect she’s going to be here for a long long time and give full play to her talent and metier. I don’t know if it’s Saif Ali Khan’s laid back style that’s rubbed off on her but she glows. In the warmth of love and a deep sense of self security. It’s not put on. She’s become more self-aware and guarded when she talks. Gone is the derring-do which I admit I miss a lot. She’s still fun and like I mentioned earlier everyone now has a Mrs Khan story to tell. Life with Taimur seems a lot like a fairy tale. And she plays the part perfectly. Just like those story- book princesses who will gather the folds of their gown and traipse into the darkness. So I quiz her about life and times, twenty years of showbiz and certain other assorted queries. We have teething troubles fixing our Skype call. Then we are on track. And I ask:

I’ve always been a WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT We’ve always wanted to something that I wanted sucker for love… FROM THE LOCKDOWN? take time out and travel to do since childhood. That one has to take each together, be together. But Even though there was At the peak of my day as it comes. Life’s so it has been more than 90 a phase where I wanted career , I chased unpredictable and fragile. days now. I’m loving it. to be a lawyer. But after love. It has given We need to keep our loved I’ve lost count of the days. looking at those books, I me peace. That ones close. The only thing The fear is that we’ve all got unnerved. I remember also happens when keeping me sane is that I got used to just chilling telling you that I want to you’ve met the can spend time with Saif and cooking and being be an actor. It’s not like right person… and my son. You learn at home. I’ve chased stardom. I’ve Everyone was to value the people you always chased the idea like, ‘Shaadi mat care about. When you’re YOU’VE COMPLETED TWO of being known as a star karna, career shooting and have so DECADES IN SHOWBIZ. actor. Coming back to khatam ho jayega’. much going on in your WHAT DO YOU RECOLLECT Refugee, I couldn’t have life, you tend to take them ABOUT YOUR FIRST FILM asked for a better launch I said, ‘Career hi for granted. REFUGEE? with J.P Dutta, Abhishek khatam ho jayega We shot the entire film in and the entire team. I na? Jaan toh nahi IS THIS THE LONGEST Bhuj in . Abhishek was waiting to burst in chale jayegi? YOU’VE BEEN WITH SAIF (Bachchan) and I were front of the camera. That AND TAIMUR AT A STRETCH? ready for it. It was excitement to learn your I’m excited to get into the 40s. You’re more content with yourself. You’ve already done the wrongs, the rights… You’ve tried everything in life. Now, you start looking within. You feel like doing things for yourself also... COVER STORY lines, that fire was always there. Considering that Lolo (Karisma Kapoor) was a big star and coming from the family I belong to, I had to prove myself. Through the years, there have been super highs and also some disastrous lows.

HOW DID YOU DEAL WITH THE HIGHS AND THE LOWS? I wear my highs and lows equally with my collars up. Success or failure, I am what I am because of those films. There was a patch when every possible film flopped. I began wondering why it was happening. Post that I didn’t do anything for one year. I even turned down films like , the one that Saif was in. I didn’t want to do anything that I’d already done. It was after Imtiaz (Ali) called me (for Jab We Met) that everything fell into place. That one year changed my perspective. I didn’t want to do run-of-the mill stuff that was not working for me at that time. I’ve worked with the biggest of directors and those films didn’t work out the way I’d expected. Whenever I worked with a new director or probably a ‘lesser name’, it has taken me forward. Whether it was Chameli, Jab We Met

I’ve worked with the bigggest or Omkara. The slightly WHAT WOULD BE YOUR of directors and those films didn’t alternate path worked for MILESTONES, IF YOU HAD work out the way I’d expected. me. But every film is close TO SPLIT THE TWO DECADES Whenever I’ve worked with a new to my heart. Even Main IN THREE PHASES. Prem Ki Diwani Hoon. The first phase would director or probably a ‘lesser name,’ I love it. Even though be of Refugee, where it it has taken me forward.Whether the highs have been all started. Things went it was Chameli, Jab We Met or highs and the lows have down later. But Chameli, Omkara. The slightly alternate path been extremely low, I’ve Dev, Omkara, Jab We worked for me. But every film is enjoyed every minute of Met… were significant close to my heart those 20 years. films. After marriage, COVER STORY

Taimur’s a child. He has no idea what’s going on. So we try to explain why they’re (paparazzi) taking his pictures. Our job is to, give him a normal environment to grow up in. That’s why we run away for holidays. Where he can run, walk, go fishing… things he wouldn’t be able to do here

SO WHAT WOULD A 40-YEAR- OLD KAREENA TELL A 25-YEAR-OLD KAREENA? Nothing in life is worth more than mental peace. If it’s meant to work out, it will. If not, then you just have to let it go. Sometimes, it’s hard to let things go. But success and failure, it’s all transient. The hunger is still there for better work. So yeah, follow your dreams. But it shouldn’t be an obsession. Having said that, yahan woh bhook kabhi mitti nahi hai. Actors have that alag kind of appetite. You just want to be at it, which is great. But sometimes you have to be like, ‘No, this is it’. I learnt this when my there were films like THERE’S A NOTICEABLE today I’m 40 and I’m films weren’t working , Ki & THERAAV IN YOU… like… I can’t. I’m in Zen while films I feared Ka, Veere Di Wedding and In a journey of 20 years, mode. I just want to do wouldn’t work, went on Good Newwz. The films if you’ve not matured my work. Even if I do to becomes successful. were topical and relevant. as a person and as an one film at a time, I’ll give I realised I should just It was about turning artiste, you’ve not learnt my best to that. But at 17, do my work and not take things around on its head. anything. I started at you want to be in every everything so seriously. For an all-girls film like the age of 17. Ek alag si film and just kill it. The During the last 10 years, Veere Di Wedding to earn energy hoti hai at that fire is still there but the I’ve changed a lot. I look 12 crores in a day was time. You’re like listen flames were a lot higher at life differently than unheard of. I can do anything. But, at that time. I did before. COVER STORY

I believe girlfriends are more difficult than wives. Girlfriends are insecure. You’re constantly thinking what’s happening? Is he talking to his heroine? Saif’s a great husband and father . When I met Saif, he was calmer with himself. The timing was right… We have these commonalities, which we find solace in. That’s what we’ve learnt from each other . To find solace in the smaller things

PLEASE ELABORATE… AND THEN YOU CHOSE TO I wasn’t edgy or anxious. I said, ‘Career hi khatam The ‘Phase 2’ began at GET MARRIED… But it’s a new journey. ho jayega na? Jaan toh the time when Jab We Yeah, in 2008 at the peak I started living in with nahi chali jayegi na?’. I Met released and I met of my career, no one Saif before I got married love this man. If living Saif. I fell in love at the would think of it. But not because I wanted to with him means that same time when I got I wanted it. I chased love experiment or test. It was producers don’t want to super success. It was a more. It has given me because we weren’t getting work with me, so be it. Of catch-22 situation. I could peace and opened doors much time to spend with course, after that I’ve done have focussed on my in my mind. That also each other as we were some good films. Saif career. My friends would happens when you’ve met shooting continuously. has also been extremely say, ‘You’re stupid not the right person. After that, it was a natural encouraging. I only get wanting to do this film’ transition. He asked me edgy when we don’t see or ‘You’re always saying WERE YOU EDGY AND to marry him and that each other for a long time. no’. But that’s me. I’ve ANXIOUS AS A WIFE IN was it. Everyone was always been a sucker THE FIRST FEW YEARS OF like, ‘Shaadi mat karna, DOES THAT HAPPEN OFTEN? for love. MARRIAGE? career khatam ho jayega’. There have been such I’m a lot like my mother (). Mom is also fiercely independent. She’s strong- headed and also emotional at the same time. Hitler and she were born on the same day. So when we fight I tell her , ‘You’re so adamant.’ We’re (Karisma and she) nothing without our mother . She has given us everything. My approach to life is through her eyes. But I’m a lot like my dad ( ) as well. His sense of humour , his zest for life, his energy… he’s an amazing human being

occasions. Saif is mad, he gets into these characters. He’s an extremely passionate actor. He did Laal Kaptaan, which took him four months around . I did not see him for 50-60 days as I was working here. Taimur was just one- and-a-half years old then. I couldn’t go to these strange places. That’s what gets difficult between two actors.

WERE YOU A DIFFICULT GIRLFRIEND AND AN EASY WIFE OR THE OTHER WAY AROUND? Generally, I believe girlfriends are more difficult than wives. Girlfriends are insecure. You’re constantly thinking what’s happening? Is he talking to his heroine? Saif’s a great husband and an extremely good father. When I met Saif, he was calmer with himself. The timing was right. We’re a decade apart, yet he thinks way ahead of me.

WHAT QUALITIES OF HIS HAVE RUBBED OFF ON YOU AND VICE VERSA? He’s one of our most outstanding actors. But Saif is not the kind to chase success. If he wants to do a film like Laal Kaptaan, he’ll do it. He’s not in the rat race. He’s like I’m an actor and I want to stick by that belief. I love that about Saif. I also love that COVER STORY he can switch off and me, ‘Duniya bolti rahegi. talk about something Tum karo jo tum karna else. He can watch a chahti ho. You’ll learn crime thriller called Miss that way’. Taimur is also Marple, which I guess no teaching me the kind one would watch apart of mother he wants me from us two. It’s about to be. He brings out the a 60-year-old female best in me and also the sleuth. We have these worst. Because even I lose commonalities, which patience sometimes. we find solace in. That’s what we’ve learnt from WHEN DOES THAT HAPPEN? each other. To find solace He’s three-and-a-half in the smaller things. years old now. He’s kind He’s happy being home of understanding his likes right now. He’s like we and dislikes. He says need to stay in isolation things like, ‘I don’t want because we need to help to eat this. I don’t want to others. We have to stay eat that.’ I end up losing positive about it. We can’t my patience. I tell him, moan about it. People ‘You have to eat your are like ‘2020 is gone’. paratha. There’s no option He says it’s okay na. It’s now’. It’s a bit of a task. With Saif and Taimur just a matter of a year. But in the end, we battle it He’s so calm and that has out together.

Saif loves all his three children He’ll look at Taimur and say, ‘Taimur’s eyes are also like Sara’s’. In fact, all three of them (including Ibrahim) have the eyes. That’s beautiful. When you see Sara’s childhood pictures, she looks so much like Tim. Taimur is a lot like Saif also. Kabhi kabhi thoda twist ho jaata hai dimaag ! rubbed off on me also. IS SAIF COOL ABOUT HIS have Pataudi eyes. That’s actors. Sara’s extremely He’s also grown more EATING HABITS? beautiful. Somewhere bright. She’s doing emotional and empathetic. Saif gets frazzled. He’s they have this connection, amazingly well for herself He shows it in different like, ‘I cannot take this which is amazing. When right now. She has a mind ways. Like, if I’m upset dinner time stress’. Taimur you see Sara’s childhood of her own. She’s gonna do about something I read keeps saying, ‘I don’t pictures, she looks so what she needs to, learn or heard, I’ll just cry. want to eat this’. The food much like Tim. from her own mistakes and Usually, he won’t show remains in his mouth for enjoy her own success. it. But now his emotional 25 minutes. So Saif prefers IS TAIMUR LIKE THEM IN quotient has increased by to be in the other room TEMPERAMENT? DOES IT BOTHER YOU THAT 50 per cent. because there’s this whole From what I’ve heard, THE PAPARAZZI IS ALWAYS mother-son tension going Ibrahim was a peaceful AFTER TAIMUR? TELL US ABOUT YOU BOTH on at the dinner table. child. If you gave him He’s a child. He has no AS PARENTS. But, Saif’s more relaxed potato chips, he’d be idea what’s going on. So I’m over protective. now as a parent. He’s been quiet. I guess Sara and we try to explain why I’m also a first-time there. He knows what Taimur are feisty. Taimur they’re taking his pictures. mother. This journey is it’s like. He’s an amazing is a lot like Saif as well. Our job is to, as much as teaching me something father to all his three Kabhi kabhi thoda twist possible, give him a normal new each day. My mother children. He loves them ho jaata hai dimaag! environment to grow up (Babita Kapoor) once deeply. That’s the best in. That’s why we run off said there’s no crown for part about him. Like he’ll DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE for holidays. Where he the best mother in the look at Taimur and say, FOR SARA? can run, walk, go fishing… world. No one even knows ‘Taimur’s eyes are also like This generation doesn’t things he wouldn’t be who the best mother in Sara’s’. In fact, all three of need any advice. They’re able to do here. Our aim the world is. Mom tells them (including Ibrahim) well trained and super is to make him eventually COVER STORY

I’m over protective. I’m also a first- time mother . This journey is teaching me something new each day. My mother (Babita Kapoor ) once said there’s no crown for the best mother in the world. No one even knows who the best mother in the world is…Taimur is also teaching me the kind of mother he wants me to be

didn’t like it. Saif misses for yourself also. Whether him a lot more because it’s travel, whether it’s he connected with him reading a book. Just doing on another level. They things that you couldn’t do believed they were similar earlier because of the rush actors. Unfortunately, you were in. I never had the opportunity to work with him. WHAT ABOUT VENTURING ON THE OTT PLATFORM? BEING PART OF AN Shows like Sacred AGEIST INDUSTRY, DID IT Games, Delhi Crime BOTHER YOU WHEN YOU and Paatal Lok, Made TURNED 40? In Heaven… excite me You’re as old as you look. as an actor. But they With mom Babita, sister Karisma and Taimur Simple as that. Not that also make me extremely I want to look sweet 16. scared. The actors on the understand, ‘Don’t take so much fun. That’s the I’m proud to be 40. I’m OTT platforms are on this too seriously because kind of person I’d always proud to have worked for an international level as actually you’re a nobody. want to be. 20 years. With God’s grace, compared to our big screen You’re just our son’. I will continue working actors. was IS KARISMA ALSO LIKE YOU for the next 20 years and outstanding in Delhi Crime. HOW MUCH ARE YOU LIKE AS A MOTHER? proudly so at 50 or 60. She’s a brilliant actor YOUR MOM AND HOW MUCH No. Lolo is a helicopter anyway. Even Paatal Lok… LIKE YOUR FATHER,RANDHIR mother. I’m much more YOUR MOTHER-IN-LAW So, I’m both nervous and KAPOOR? relaxed even though I’m () HAS excited to dabble in it now. I’m a lot like my mother. a first-time mom. Lolo’s BEEN HERE FOR 65 ODD Honestly, I believe there’s Mom is also fiercely hyper and paranoid. But YEARS... no difference between independent. She’s strong- she’s such a nice human She’s iconic and an both the mediums. Saif headed and also emotional being that no one can inspiration. Today with has watched Paatal Lok at the same time. Hitler and tell her anything. Being a the OTT platforms and twice already. He says it’s she were born on the same single mother is difficult. the different kinds of films a learning experience. It’s day. So when we fight I tell So her approach is being made, there’s place the content that makes the her, ‘You’re so adamant.’ different. I fire her a lot. for everyone out here. Age experience memorable We’re (Karisma and she) We try to ease her out. is no barrier. rather than the big screen. nothing without our mother. She has given us YOUR UNCLE, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU ANY PLANS TO HAVE A everything. My approach PASSED AWAY RECENTLY. GIVE OTHER 40-YEAR OLD SECOND BABY? to life is through her eyes. YOUR THOUGHTS… WOMEN? It’s all up to God and But I’m a lot like my dad as It’s been a terrible tragedy. I’m excited to get into the destiny. There’s no well. His sense of humour, Like me Chintu uncle was 40s. You’re more content planning as such. I never his zest for life, his a Virgo. He too believed with yourself. You’ve planned the first one. energy… he’s an amazing in saying things as they already done the wrongs, I’m not going to plan my human being. I connect were. If he loved your the rights… You’ve tried life ahead either. Right with him on another performance, he’d tell everything in life. Now, now, we just have to level. He never says no for you so. If he hated your you start looking within. have faith and keep the anything. His company is performance, he’d say he You feel like doing things positivity going. n OUT OF THE SHADOWS RAGHUVENDRA SINGH CHATS UP WITH ABHISHEK BACHCHAN, WHO RECENTLY COMPLETED 20 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

PHOTOGRAPHS: ABHAY SINGH INTERVIEW

We can’t believe that two decades have passed since the release of Refugee, TWENTY YEARS. Abhishek Bachchan’s debut film as an actor. There was an innocence about him back then. A vulnerability that set him apart from others of his breed. He was Amitabh Bachchan’s son and comparisons to his father were all but inevitable. But Abhishek wasn’t an Amitabh clone. He was very much his own actor. Slowly and steadily, he made sure everyone noticed that. There is a certain gravitas in him as an actor, something which has only increased with time. You saw that in , in Guru, in , He ventured into OTT space with Breathe: Into the Shadows and while the initial reactions were positive, he sadly tested positive for COVID-19. Panic ensued when both Abhishek and Amitabh Bachchan were admittted to the Nanavati hospital. He asked his fans to stay calm.“Both my father and I tested positive for COVID 19. Both of us having mild symptoms have been admitted to hospital. We have informed all the required authorities and our family and staff are all being tested. I request all to stay calm and not panic.” We spoke to the actor via video chat a few days before he was tested and this is what he had to say:

TWENTY YEARS IN SHOW Of course, I spoke to BUSINESS IS QUITE AN JP Saab. I had a long ACHIEVEMENT. WHAT HAVE conversation with him. THESE YEARS TAUGHT YOU? Maine unse kaha ki main To be thankful for the aap ko dhanyawad kehna work that you get, to be chahunga ki aapne mujhe grateful to the audience for aur Bebo ko yeh mauka allowing you to be an actor dia, hamein us layak for so long and to work samjha ke hum aap ki even harder tomorrow picture ke Refugee aur to earn that respect and Nazneen ban paayein -- love again. (I thanked him for giving Kareena and me a chance WHAT HAS CHANGED AND to become Nazneen and REMAINED UNCHANGED with in Breathe: Into The Shadows ABOUT YOU? Digital is yet another medium that has come. It’s I think what’s remained unchanged about me is the future because it’s the latest technology. But is my excitement to do what ‘the’ future means baaki sab pichhe chuut jayega? I do. I love being an actor, I love being part of films, No. I think it will all co-exist... I love making films, I’m passionate about it. So that Refugee in his film). I people will enjoy the work father? Your answer would hasn’t changed. What has also thanked him for we have done. have been different. Today, changed, I think experience introducing us to what was because you are a father, teaches you a lot. Twenty possibly, if I can speak for DID YOU FEEL EMOTIONAL you’ll understand that years are enough to learn Kareena, the best decision PLAYING THE FATHER OF A emotion, you can answer about how to do things, we could have made in DAUGHTER...SINCE YOU ARE that question better. That’s how to improve, how to our lives and that was to ONE IN REAL LIFE TOO... the only difference. The better yourself. So I would become actors. To be honest, if you’d difference is that today I like to believe that the asked me this question have first-hand experience experience of twenty years THREE REASONS WHY 10 years ago, I’d have of that emotion. I don’t has taught me a lot and BREATHE: INTO THE said that I’m an actor, my need to create that emotion, brought a change in me. SHADOWS IS A MUST job is to act and I have to that emotion is within me. WATCH... learn through observation. DID YOU SPEAK TO JP It’s a thrilling, edge-of-your- Today, I can perform not YOU PLAY A PSYCHIATRIST, DUTTA, WHO DIRECTED seat entertainer, which has just by observation but also WHO HIMSELF IS GOING YOUR DEBUT FILM, AND TO something for everybody by actually experiencing THROUGH AN EMOTIONAL KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN, and a lot of twists and turns what I have gone through TURMOIL IN THE SERIES. YOUR FIRST CO-STAR, ON THE and surprises. It’s perfectly as a father. If I had asked WAS IT CHALLENGING FOR DAY REFUGEE COMPLETED suited for you five years ago, how do YOU AS AN ACTOR TO DO THIS TWENTY YEARS? as an original series. I think you think it will feel to be a LAYERED ROLE? INTERVIEW

I spoke to JP Saab... Maine unse kaha ki main aap ko dhanyawad kehna chahunga ki aapne mujhe aur Bebo ko yeh The challenge was to mauka dia, hamein us layak samjha ke hum aap ki picture ke make that turmoil seem Refugee aur Nazneen ban paayein. (I thanked him for giving believable. This medium does not allow for Kareena and me a chance to become Nazneen and Refugee) melodrama. This medium’s requirement is that your KIND OF SCRIPTS AND emotions and performance CHARACTERS ONE CAN have to be as believable ATTEMPT? and realistic as possible. Yes, it does. And there’s a So sometimes you might reason for that. The criteria try a story which is very for cinema is different as complicated but how do compared to a web series. you portray that role as Streaming platforms believably as possible. are a lot more intimate What is the emotion a experience as compared father goes through -- to With Kareena Kapoor in Refugee to cinema. In theatre you know that you have to look watch a film with two for your daughter, worry DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR is still highly patronised hundred and sometimes about your daughter’s well DEBUT IN THE DIGITAL by people. So is cinema, with five hundred people being and to do that as MEDIUM A MILESTONE. IS so is television. This is -- and sometimes you’re believably as possible, I DIGITAL THE FUTURE? yet another medium that even with your family. The think that was the greatest It’s the future, it’s not has come. It helps us as web series you can watch challenge. ‘the’ future. It’s going to creative people to reach alone on your phone or be part of the future. It’s out to our audience. That’s TV or laptop in your room. HOW WAS THE EXPERIENCE interesting that you asked it. It is the future because So there are different OF WORKING WITH NITHYA it. First, there was theatre, it is the latest technology requirements all together. MENEN? then came cinema, no one available. But is it ‘the’ You can push the envelope Outstanding. She is thought theatre was going future means baaki sab a lot more on OTT unbelievably brilliant as an to die. After cinema came pichhe chhut jayega? No. platorms. Going to the film actor. She is one of the best television, no one thought I think it will all co-exist. theatre is seen as a family actresses I have worked cinema was going to die. And how wonderful. outing in our country. So with. She is so effortless, Today, the theatre scene it is not just an individual she is so natural, it’s just is thriving in Mumbai. DOES DIGITAL PROVIDES that you cater to. Yes there been a pleasure. All over India too, theatre MORE FREEDOM IN THE are many people who go INTERVIEW

The criteria for cinema is different as compared to a web series. Streaming platforms are a lot more intimate experience as compared to cinema. .. You can push the envelope a lot more on OTT platorms with their friends, but work in a film they’ll go taken. I think that’s more I spent them at home. it’s more of a community for repeat viewings. That important. People should Where else could you experience. When that is means your collections be educated about the fact go? I looked upon it as a there then I need to make will increase and your that it’s alright to move out blessing because I got to a film, which the whole film will be called a hit. provided you take all the spend quality time with family can sit together and Here also, if your work is precautions, in line with my family, which I get enjoy. That means putting good then they will watch what the government has to do rarely. The whole something for everybody it again and again and said. People have become family was together after in the film. That is not the streaming service will too lax. They behave as if a very long time and for necessary in a web series. know what the figures are there’s nothing to worry such a huge period of It can be there as well, I’m and they will employ you about. I told the paparazzi time. It was nice to have not saying that can’t be for their next product. It’s that came to our everyone under one roof. a criterion. as simple as that. So, in to first wear the mask, and both cases at the end of even better, wear a helmet. WHICH IS ONE MEMORY ON OTT PLATFORMS, YOU the day it’s the audience Another thing is that they FROM THE LOCKDOWN DON’T HAVE BOX-OFFICE which matters. The ride three people to a bike. YOU WILL ALWAYS PRESSURES. BUT IS audience has to like I asked them to stop doing REMEMBER? THERE SOMETHING THAT what you do. that in these times. The There are so many ya. STILL MAKES YOU FEEL police might catch them It’s difficult to choose just APPREHENSIVE? YOU WERE ONE OF THE FIRST and throw them in jail. one. But one thing you Yes, if you are talking CELEBS WHO STEPPED OUT What’ll they do then? They should understand that about the Friday jitters -- OF THE HOUSE AND GAVE might get into trouble if for a country of 1.3 billion they aren’t there because THE MESSAGE THAT NOW WE they don’t follow the rules. people to successfully currently there is no SHOULD COME OUT OF THE I feel everybody has to be a lockdown to whatever barometer to judge. But the HOUSE FOR WORK... responsible citizen. possible degree, I think is endgame is all the same. I had to step out as I commendable. You should At the end of the day, the had to dub. Thankfully, HOW DID YOU SPEND look at the positives. audience has to like your all the precautions THESE THREE MONTHS OF I don’t want to look at work. If they like your and permissions were LOCKDOWN? the negatives. n INTERVIEW

I see everything positively. I try and manage everything. You can see I am constantly over the phone with my kids even as I’m doing the interview. I’m multi- tasking. In that case, you can call me a supermom

PHOTOGRAPHS: ABHAY SINGH/FEMINA Mother’s KARISMA KAPOOR’S BEST ROLE IS THAT OF PLAYING SUPER MOM TO HER KIDS, WRITES SUMAN SHARMA day out

arisma Kapoor recently won rave reviews for playing a yummy, yuppie mom, Meira Sharma, in the Ekta Kapoor produced web series . The series was all about a gaggle of mommies, played by Karisma, KMridul, , , and a single dad, played by a still hot-looking Dino Morea, trying to raise their kids in a fast-changing world. Karisma’s own mother, yesteryear star Babita, was kind of known as a ‘Tiger Mom’. Fiercely ambitious, she’s said to have pushed both her daughters hard to reach where they have. Karisma, a mother of two children, daughter Samiera and son Kiaan , though not as go-getting, is undeniably devoted. Her own experience, as well as the influences of her mother, have helped her shape her as a mother and a woman. Excerpts from a heart-to-heart interview with the talented actor and super mom… Mentalhood

What made you say yes to old people… can identify you take on a new medium? voice. The webspace is Mentalhood after such a with. Either they’ve They were like if Mama’s a perfect balance of film long sabbatical? been through this or are happy, we’re happy. and television. When Ekta Kapoor offered currently experiencing it They’re excited I’m me the series, I wasn’t or will experience it in working again. I wasn’t How was it facing the sure whether I wanted to the near future. In each nervous at all. It’s been a camera after a long gap? do it. But after hearing episode, we dealt with great journey for me. I’ve I do face the camera the script, I agreed. I want sensitive and relevant done some great films. regularly for ad shoots. people to know what I go topics like bullying, The audience has loved So it isn’t a big gap as through on a daily basis. surrogacy, adoption, me. I’m thankful for that. such. I enjoyed playing a I want to tell audiences being a ‘tiger mom’, single I like doing new things. mom. There were children they aren’t alone. That parenting... The topics are I’ve done a radio show around on the set. I was we, as parents, are going serious but the narrative is before. I’ve done TV. Now involved at every level of through this journey humorous. it’s the web. The digital the project. Even while together. This is the show medium is a different scripting was on, I gave which every woman, How did your children, platform. It’s more suggestions as a mom, every mother, young girls, Samiera and Kiaan, react to creative. It gives you a I would do this or INTERVIEW wouldn’t do this. It was interesting to draw from my own experience.

You put your career aside to be with your kids... Yes. That was the choice I made. I wanted to be with my kids. Motherhood completely changes you as a woman. Your children become your priority. Work is secondary for me. It’s all about rushing back home and being with them. Nothing’s more important than that. Since the kids are older now, I’ve taken up acting again. Yet I’m selective about it.

Do you ever regret giving up your career at the peak? No, I don’t. I started working at a young age. In that period, I did a lot of work. Those days we used to do three-four shifts a day. I’d be working day and night, round the clock for months together. I was ambitious too. I wanted to be on the top. I enjoyed reaching it. I left after achieving what I wanted to. So, there are no regrets. That's because I believe in going with the flow and living to the fullest.

Kareena (Kapoor Khan) has set an example – have a private life, get married, have children and you can still be at the top of your game and look your best How like or unlike are you I guess my mom was a big from your mother Babita? disciplinarian. It helped I’m quite like my mom. me in my career and in As I grow older, shaping the way I am as I appreciate her more. She a person. I like having gave us a strong value a conversation with the system, which remains children after school, rooted in us. Respect for whilst having dinner. elders, spending time I make it a point to spend with family, a strong quality time with them work ethic…all these every day. I pay total I’ve imbibed from her. attention to them when Hopefully, I’ve passed I’m with them. I enjoy these on to my kids. Often their company. when I say something to my kids, I turn around Dangerous Ishq Do you cook for them? and tell my mother, Yes, I do. I try my best. ‘Look I’m sounding just I learnt simple things from When they’re younger, like you’. you have to make the my mother (Babita). Be an honest food look interesting. Something specific you But now they’ve become learnt from your mother? person, maintain integrity of health conscious and are I learnt simple things from character… remain focussed, forever reading up on my mother. Be an honest better eating habits. person, maintain integrity work hard and value money. Your I learn so much from of character… remain value system has to be strong them. This generation is focussed, work hard and so intelligent. Many a time value money. You can kids even as I’m doing Kapoor Khan). So they’re they tell me something come from anywhere; you the interview. I’m multi- accommodating. isn’t healthy and suggest can do anything. But your tasking. In that case, you better alternatives. basic value system has to can call me a supermom. You share a special bond be strong. with Kareena... In the last few years cinema How do you manage to Yes, we’ve always been has more scope for female Is it tough being a juggle work and home? extremely close. We’re actors. Do you agree? single mom? If you know your like any two sisters. We There have always been I see everything positively. priorities, you can work talk about everything – good roles for actresses. I try and manage out everything. I’m clear the price of vegetables, Right from everything. (Smiles) You about not working on what’s happening in the and Mughal-E-Azam, can see I am constantly Sundays. It’s a family day. kitchen, with the drivers, which are remembered on the phone with my Today production houses parenting tips... Things today for their female understand that as there sisters normally share. leads. I too moved are so many working We also share fashion from Dil Toh Pagal Hai moms, like my tips, what’s happening at to , sister (Kareena a shoot. Kareena has set , ... doing an example for the future different roles. Actresses generations – please have of all ages are getting to a private life, get married, do interesting roles today. have children and you can Also, you can do TV, still be at the top of your web series… the options game. You can still work are many. and you can still look your best. What’s next on the cards? I don’t plan anything. What kind of a mother But yes, I do enjoy doing are you? comedy. I can’t talk I’m a protective mom. But right now about it. Let With Kareena Kapoor Khan, I won’t call myself a Tiger the producers make the Kiaan, Babita and Samiera Mom. I’m disciplined. announcement. n INTERVIEW

FINDINGRaghuvendra Singh meets Homi Adajania ,HOMI the reclusive director of the critically acclaimed

e’d rather be today. The psychological deep-sea diving drama, , off Lakshadweep starred Saif Ali Khan, islands than and make films or . Hgive interviews. Homi “I have a visual mind. Adajania is more of a I can connect the traveller, more of a sea emotional dots. These are creature than a filmmaker. my few strengths. Apart One can say making films from that, I believe I’m an is a hobby and diving his average filmmaker,” he vocation. Films came to states self-deprecatingly. him out of the blue. He The Bollywood naach- says before Being Cyrus gaana shenanigans (2005), he didn’t know On the set of Angrezi Medium with the excited him while making a thing about making late Irrfan Khan and Dimple Kapadia Cocktail (2012). He movies. People thought of was scared of it and yet him as an ad filmmaker. WE NEVER TIPTOED AROUND THE FACT wanted to experience it But all he had done till all. The film, written by then was shoot a prank THAT IRRFAN (KHAN) HAD CANCER. WE USED TO filmmaker Imtiaz Ali and video involving a bomb LAUGH ABOUT IT, JOKE ABOUT IT… HE’D TELL produced by Saif Ali Khan and two unsuspecting ME THAT YOU’RE SUCH A F****R, YOU HAVE and under friends. He’s done , starred some crazy things as a NO FILTER… IRRFAN NEVER WANTED ANYONE’S Saif, traveller, like living with SYMPATHY, ANYONE’S PITY and . With a Vietnamese family for regards to a bet. Also, he lived in what culture you come because it’s full of (2014), he wanted it to Europe for four months from. Human beings, at profanities. I liked it and be like an edible picture working his way through the core, have the same said I’d make a movie on book. “I guess it went over odd jobs like babysitting, primal emotions, which it. My wife (Anaita Shroff a lot of people’s heads. washing sofas, painting help you both structure a Adajania, fashion stylist) But for me, it was a story houses to save money to story and sell it. and my friends were like, about loneliness and buy a ticket back home. “A friend gave me a ‘Homi’s again going to longing. I wanted to shoot These experiences taught story and said it was do some f*****g shit,” each frame, where I felt him that it doesn’t matter being rejected everywhere he laughs at the memory you wanted to pick out a PEOPLE HAVE EXPERIENCED A FULL BELLY LAUGH WITH ANGREZI MEDIUM… THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I’VE DELVED INTO A COMEDY, WHICH HAS A LOT OF SOUL. PEOPLE ARE LAUGHING LIKE MAD BUT HAVE GOT THE EMOTIONAL GIST AS WELL INTERVIEW

characters were different. But underneath it all, HOMI ON the emotional core was something I could relate IRRFAN to,” he explains. Homi confides he’d never have When Irrfan Khan walked made Angrezi Medium in on the set of Angrezi if it was just a sequel to Medium, the first day, it . It was the had been a year since he father-daughter (enacted had acted. He had been by Irrfan and Radhika) undergoing treatment for relationship that attracted neuroendocrine cancer. him. Being a father (to I jokingly asked whether he’d sons Zane and Zreh), he forgotten to act. He replied could identify with it. “As in a serious tone that he a parent you handhold could well have. We cracked your kid and take him up hysterically. Regardless through life. But one day of how tense or stressful a you have to let go of that situation seemed, we always hand. For me, that’s going saw the absurdity of life to be extremely painful. and laughed. I’ll do it with pride but Towards the end of our with also a lot of pain. shoot, Irrfan told me that Your love for your child is he had changed deeply as unconditional.” a person. He had redefined He adds that when pain as another sensation in you let go of that hand A candid picture of his mind. It wasn’t pleasant. there’s also hope that one Homi Adajania with But it was different. He day your child will come the late Irrfan Khan said he didn’t want fame back and hold it. That’s or stardom anymore. But the nuance he wanted I TELL STORIES INSTINCTIVELY. I RELY ON when he said,“Yaar Homi his writers to capture in mujhe acting se bahut Angrezi Medium. The film MY INSTINCTS… I HAVE A VISUAL MIND. I CAN mohabbat hai,” I could feel made people crack up CONNECT THE EMOTIONAL DOTS. THESE ARE his words. He seemed to be with laughter. But there’s a MY FEW STRENGTHS. APART FROM THAT, watching the circus of life difference between simply from the outside. He wasn’t laughing and laughing I BELIEVE I’M AN AVERAGE FILMMAKER interested in jumping into heartily he points out. the thick of it anymore. Once “People have experienced piece and bite into it.” The study abroad. Moreover, I asked him why he wanted a full belly laugh with my satirical comedy starred it’s a father-daughter story. to shoot considering he film. To be able to give just old favourites Dimple, The late Irrfan Khan, who was undergoing treatment. that is extremely joyful. Deepika, Naseeruddin had won the Filmfare Best His retort was a simple, This is for the first time Shah, and Actor for Hindi Medium, “Ch@#th! I’m not dead na… I’ve delved into a comedy, . was last seen in Angrezi Toh let me live doing what which also has soul. The director was Medium. The film features I love.” Ironically, the crew People laughed like mad. in news once again , Kareena looked to him for strength But they got the emotional for his latest release Kapoor Khan and Dimple rather than the other way gist as well.” Angrezi Medium. Saket Kapadia. around. Irrfan never made Angrezi Medium Choudhary’s Hindi his problem anyone else’s. featured Kareena and Medium, the first part of he universe of I always knew he was a Dimple essaying what the franchise in 2017, was Angrezi Medium fantastic actor. It’s difficult to can only be called ‘guest a social commentary on was something he think about cinema without appearances’. He says the flaws of the education was unfamiliar thinking of Irrfan. But more neither Kareena or Dimple system. Thematically, with. And that importantly, I got a chance approached their roles Angrezi Medium took excited T Homi greatly. to cross paths with an like a guest appearance. the franchise forward. “Udaipur was a new incredible human being. “They said, ‘Hey, we want It’s about a girl’s desire to space for me. The to do our bit. Because it’s INTERVIEW

 Cocktail

 With wife Anaita Shroff and children Zane and Zreh crucial to the narrative’. Angrezi Medium, whether AS A PARENT YOU HANDHOLD YOUR KID That’s the bunch of it was because of the people I had, extremely circumstances... it was AND TAKE HIM THROUGH LIFE. BUT ONE DAY professional and secure emotionally draining,” he YOU HAVE TO LET GO OF THAT LITTLE HAND. FOR actors.” He claims he’s muses. The whole journey ME, LETTING THAT HAND GO IS GOING TO BE never experienced a has made him a lighter star tantrum. “I’d rather person. He realised he’s EXTREMELY PAINFUL. I’LL DO IT WITH PRIDE part ways amicably than merely making films and BUT WITH ALSO A LOT OF PAIN change my story for not sending people to anyone,” he asserts. Mars. As a result, he has like how did it all come can’t fool the audience “I need to tell it the way stopped sweating over together?” any longer. “It’s not as I intend to. Actually, the small stuff. “We never To think of it, Being if they’re starved for a story sort of becomes tiptoed around the fact Cyrus, Cocktail, Finding choice. There’s some a person. The director that Irrfan had cancer. We Fanny and Angrezi brilliant stuff out there merely holds its hand like used to laugh about it, joke Medium seem like works on different platforms. a parent, making sure it’s about it… Sometimes we’d of different filmmakers. They’re more exposed. on the right path. Finally, talk about it seriously. He Homi says he’d get bored if You have to give them beyond a point you can’t used to tell me that you’re he ever made a film in his the real deal. Otherwise, guide its fate,” he reflects. such a f****r, you have no comfort zone. He’d rather they’ll look for it filter. You say anything. pick a project, which elsewhere,” he says. particular picture That’s what I love about offers him something he’s His next is the web of Homi from the you. Irrfan never wanted unsure of. “I tell stories series, Saas Bahu Aur sets of Angrezi anyone’s sympathy, intuitively. I rely on my Cocaine, about women Medium, where anyone’s pity.” instincts. God forbid one running a cocaine cartel. Irrfan Khan Homi’s full of admiration day if I wake up and I The Kutch-based series, isA seen leaning on his for Irrfan’s resilience and don’t have that instinct, produced by Dinesh Vijan, shoulder, created a stir admits the actor was under I don’t know what the is going to be a funny, on the internet when the a lot of pain while making f**k I’ll do. This approach gritty and bold show. He actor passed away on 29 the film. “My only thing keeps me engaged as it’s says with a glint of pride May. It spoke volumes with him was tell me as unpredictable.” in his eyes, “What I love about the bond they soon you want to stop. He underlines that the about Dinesh is that he shares. “It’s not just me I don’t care if I get the audience today has grown pushes me into things, and Irrfan, there was so scene right or not. Now story-specific rather than which he believes only much love on the sets of when I look back, I’m being star-specific. You I’ll be able to pull off.” n INTERVIEW THEY ARE PLAYING LYRICIST SAMEER DOESN’T FANCY REMIXES AND POINTS OUT THAT THE MUSIC INDUSTRY IS UNDERGOING A CRISIS. MY HE SHARES HIS CONCERNS WITH DEVESH SHARMA SONG ameer was and, according to him, mentions that lyricists/ couple of changes? Is this the go-to lyricist made a hash of them. composers are considering justified?” he questions. in the ’90s. Name He’s not against remixes filing a case against remixes He reminds you that the any hit song of the per se. His grouse is why as such practices are eating Writers’ Guild of America Sera and chances are that it can’t filmmakers come into their copyrights. brought Hollywood to a would have been written to the original composer/ According to the present grinding halt some years by the bard. Today, when lyricist to rejig it. “Ninety rules, those who have ago demanding better work the ’90s music is making per cent of my songs are remixed the songs, have to conditions and pay. The a comeback thanks to being remixed today. They share the royalty with the studios had to agree to their remixes, Sameer’s lyrics can’t change the hook line original writers/composers. demands. “We don’t have are in vogue once more. because it’s popular. So “We toiled day and night that kind of unity here. A But the lyricist is far from they retain it. But the rest to make a hit song. How music director or a lyricist happy. He’s disgruntled of the lines have no relation can someone, who wasn’t shouldn’t that someone else has to the opening lines,” he part of the original film accept rearranged the words points out angrily. He get a royalty for making a remix work NINETY PER CENT OF MY SONGS ARE BEING REMIXED TODAY. THEY CAN’T CHANGE THE HOOK LINE... BUT THE REST OF THE LINES SEEM TO HAVE NO RELATION TO THE Sameer with Being honoured by Shri Devendra Fadnavis OPENING LINES the Black Lady WE TOILED DAY AND NIGHT TO MAKE A HIT SONG. HOW CAN SOMEONE, WHO WASN’T PART OF THE ORIGINAL FILM GET A ROYALTY FOR MAKING A COUPLE OF CHANGES? IS THIS JUSTIFIED? INTERVIEW

don’t approve of the IPRS A MUSIC DIRECTOR as well. “They’re against SHOULDN’T ACCEPT the IPRS as earlier they were getting 90 per cent of REMIX WORK ON the royalty. But now, they ETHICAL GROUNDS… get 50 per cent and the rest is distributed between the I DON’T THINK TANISHK author and composer.” BAGCHI WOULD ONLY He thanks the IPRS for doing a commendable WANT TO BE KNOWN AS job of collecting royalties SOMEONE, WHO JUST worldwide and ensuring the rightful candidates get REMIXES SONGS With A R the money. “We’re not a money-savvy breed. Some SAMEER’S of us would have literally been on the streets if not for TOP 10 them,” he asserts. Honthon pe bas tera naam hai He wants to know why () there’s such a lack of Mera dil bhi empathy towards the older Yeh Dillagi () generation in the industry. He has seen stalwarts Aisi deewangi (DEEWANA) like RD Burman and Laxmikant-Pyarelal being se driven to tears because () the new generation was Pardesi pardesi giving them short shrift. (RAJA HINDUSTANI) He questions why singers Aashiqui Rajneeti Dil ne yeh kaha hai dil se like , Udit () Narayan and Sonu Nigam on ethical grounds.” He hardly been an album Tum paas aaye aren’t getting work. He wonders why people are that can stand the test of (KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI) says even today playing with their careers time. He also points out Aapke pyaar mein can deliver a tune like as what counts is your that there are a dozen (RAAZ) Moh moh ke dhaage (Dum originality. “I don’t think lyricists and composers Jab se tere naina Laga Ke Haisha) if trusted. would credited to a film album. () “Through this interview, want to be known as “WhatsApp culture has I’m asking filmmakers to Mora piya someone, who just remixes invaded the industry. (RAJNEETI) give the veterans a chance. songs. He’d also like to be People send you tunes on Their experience, their known for original work.” WhatsApp and expect you work ethics will add to He spells out that there’s to write back the lyrics on Aashiqui, your product. Ignore them a larger conspiracy at work. WhatsApp. They also ask - take away the music and if they don’t meet your “The music industry is 50 composers to send tunes let’s see if the films earn expectations. But give them going through a strange and select five-six out of as much as they did,” he that one chance,” he urges. kind of transit. There’s a them. You can’t expect challenges. Sameer is a second- conspiracy by some to ruin quality work in such a He reveals there’s generation lyricist. His the music industry. They scenario,” he thunders. much money to be made father, veteran Anjaan, don’t want a star to emerge There’s a school of thought through music. He points was a much-respected from the music world.” He that Hindi films would out that Aashiqui’s (1990) name between the ’60s explains, “Because when do well to get rid of songs music still keeps the cash -’70s. Sameer says there you become a star, you altogether. He scoffs at that registers ringing. He gives was no back become a brand. You begin and says blockbusters in the example of the Indian then. “The only time my to demand more. You begin every era became popular Performing Rights Society father recommended me to set your rules. They because of their music. (IPRS), which started as a was to Laxmikantji and don’t want that.” “Mughal-e-Azam, Sangam, 10-crore entity but now has got severely reprimanded. He claims that’s why in , all Rajesh 200 crores in its coffers. The composer said don’t the last five years, there’s Khanna films, Saajan, He alleges some entities do it again because then I WHATSAPP CULTURE HAS INVADED THE INDUSTRY. PEOPLE SEND YOU TUNES ON WHATSAPP AND EXPECT YOU TO WRITE LYRICS ON WHATSAPP. THEY ALSO ASK 50 COMPOSERS TO SEND TUNES AND SELECT FIVE-SIX OUT OF THEM He mentions that the worst year of his life was 1997 when he almost quit the industry. Gulshan Kumar was killed. Tips’ owner Ramesh Taurani was sent behind bars. Nadeem of Nadeem-Shravan fled the country. His father, Anjaan, too expired during that period. Sameer was part of the biggie, Dus, directed by Mukul Anand, starring Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan. Sadly, even Anand passed away. The project was abandoned. “The media was hounding me won’t give him work even happened during Housefull It was Javed (Akhtar) saab, because of my closeness to if I want to,” recalls he. 2. He was missing his who insisted that the song Nadeem. After completing Sameer used to stay with father and felt adding the be filmed.” the last rites of my father his grandfather in . name would help fill the He has started a show in Benaras, I was in two He hardly saw his father void. Anjaan’s most famous called Sameer Safarnama, minds whether I should until he came to Mumbai song is Khaike paan wherein he chooses return to Mumbai or not.” after being bored by his Banaras wala from Don different songs from his At that stage, bank job. “I must have (1978). Sameer rubbishes father’s repertoire and his offered him Kuch Kuch seen him four-five times all rumours concerning its own and narrates the story Hota Hai. “Javed saab in 20 years. He was more genesis. “Neither Manoj behind them. The format was supposed to write like a distant relative than Kumar (said to have has been picked up by both the lyrics. But he left the a father. It’s only when recommended the song) and Irshad project as he found the title I came here and started nor the film Banarasi Babu Kamil as well. “Why can’t of the film vulgar. I worked living with him, that we has anything to do with it. lyricists have their own with Jatin-Lalit in the film. became close,” he says. It was written for Don by shows? They are as much I not only survived the To honour his father’s my father. It wasn’t filmed responsible for a song’s worst phase of my life but memory, Sameer started because the film was ready success. I plan to bring bounced back stronger. adding Anjaan to his name and the filmmakers didn’t out a version of it on the I’m hoping for a similar a few years ago. He said it want to delay the release. OTT platforms as well.” comeback even now.” n OBITUARY

DEVESH SHARMA PROFILES THE VERSATILE COMIC ACTOR JAGDEEP WHO PASSED AWAY LAUGHTER RECENTLY (MARCH 29, 1939 UNLIMITED - JULY 8, 2020) e’s known as a comedian today but he wasn’t always so.H Jagdeep, in fact, was a leading man in many AVM Productions films like Bhabhi (1957), Barkha (1959) and Bindiya (1960). He was cast opposite in the first two. Many popular songs like Paas baitho tabiyat bahal jayegi from Punarmilan (1964), Chal udd ja re panchi and Chali chali re patang, from Bhabhi, were picturised on him. He later became a comedian and went on to act in more than 400 films. The brought forth an exodus of people to Mumbai. Jagdeep, born Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri on March 29, 1939, was one such person. He came to Mumbai with his mother at the tender age of seven. They had lost everything while crossing over into the country. So he took all kinds of work at that young age, to make ends meet. He sold fruit, cutlery and sundry knick-knacks on trains and on the street. He even worked as a waiter and as a handcart puller. His harsh beginnings made him observe life closely -- something that came handy when it came to portraying real-life characters later TIMESCONTENT With friends , With son Javed and With Amitabh Bachchan and grandson Meezaan in Jagdeep’s most famous role perhaps as a comedian is that of Soorma Bhopali from (1975). His line Hamara naam Soorma Bhopali aise hi nahi hai With and Salman With Amitabh Bachchan and Khan in in Sholay became hugely famous in films. He was said to His role reportedly won get the Bhopali accent the otherwise heavy- be quite resourceful and him praise from the then right. Though Jagdeep, duty action film. His role soon got a small role in BR Prime Minister Pandit who was said to be a in Qurbani became so Chopra’s Afsana (1951). Jawaharlal Nehru, who master of improvisation, popular that a mock fight In one of his interviews, is said to have gifted him brought in his own cadence between him and the Jagdeep described how he a walking stick. The film and mannerisms while actual Muhammed Ali was promoted from being went on to win the Best speaking the dialogue was reportedly arranged in paid Rs 3 per day to Rs 6 Children’s Film trophy and made the character America to organise funds in his first film itself. His at the National Awards. memorable. Years later, for a mosque. role was that of an extra As said earlier, AVM took in 1988, he produced Jagdeep is said to have who had to just clap for a him under their wing and and directed a film called married thrice. His first scene in the film. “There launched him as a hero. Soorma Bhopali. Despite wife was Naseem Begam was a drama scene where But none of his films, special appearances with whom he had a son children are performing barring Bhabhi which was from stars like Amitabh named Hussein, who drama. When the scene a big hit, reportedly made Bachchan, Dharmendra, passed away in 2009 and began the boy who was money. He then became a , , two daughters named performing the lead role character artiste and started Farooque Shaikh, and and Shakira. could not say the dialogue. specialising in comic roles. many other friends of the He then married Sughra It was in . Hence actor, the film didn’t make Begam with whom he had I volunteered to act the agdeep first became it big at the box-office. two sons and scene and did it with ease. famous as a comedian His other memorable Naved Jaffrey. He then Chopra saab paid me Rs 6 in the roles include playing married Nazima with per day instead of Rs 3.” Kapoor starrer ’s whom he has a daughter He played the young JBrahmachari (1968). He informant in Surakksha named Muskaan Jaffrey. in Dhobi played Murli Manohar (1979), Muhammed Ali, a Javed is a successful actor Doctor (1952) and later in the film and became spoof on the famous boxer known for his dancing acted under quite popular for his in ’s Qurbani skills, while Naved is a in Do Bigha Zameen mannerisms. His most (1980), Taarachand successful TV producer. (1953), where he played a famous role perhaps as Baadlani in Shahenshah Javed’s son Meezaan shoeshine boy. a comedian is that of (1988), Bankelal Bhopali, Jaffrey was launched by He appeared in Soorma Bhopali from an extension of his Sholay Sanjay Leela Bhansali in children’s films like KA Sholay (1975). His line character in Andaz Apna Malaal (2019). ’ Munna (1954), Hamara naam Soorma Apna (1994), where he Jagdeep passed away at Raj Kapoor produced Ab Bhopali aise hi nahi hai played Salman Khan’s 8.30 pm on July 8, 2020, at Dilli Door Nahin (1957) became hugely famous. father and Subedar his residence in . He and AVM’s Hum Panchhi Salim-Javed, who wrote Ramaiyah in China was not keeping well due Ek Daal Ke (1957), which the film, are from Madhya Gate (1998), where he to age-related issues. He became quite famous. Pradesh. They helped him brought comic relief to was 81. n OBITUARY

FAREWELL,DEVESH SHARMA PROFILES VETERAN DANCER AND KUMKUM(APRIL 22, 1934-JULY 28,2020) ACTRESS KUMKUM WHO PASSED AWAY RECENTLY

hey say it’s either glamour or necessity which attracts people towards the film industry. TKumkum, who was a naturally-gifted dancer, wanted to be an actress in her childhood like any other girl but it was necessity which actually made her turn towards films. The actress, who was originally christened Zebunnisa, was born in Hussainabad in Bihar on April 22, 1934. Her father Nawab Manzoor Hasan Khan was the landlord of Hussainabad near Patna. When their financial condition started deteriorating the family left for Kolkata. It’s said her Kumkum father remarried and left for afterwards. THE SONG KABHI The family then reportedly shifted to . AAR KABHI PAAR WAS Kumkum learnt FIRST PICTURISED Kathak under the tutelage of ON JAGDEEP BUT in Lucknow and then THE CENSORS migrated with her family to Mumbai in 1952. It’s said REPORTEDLY she knew Naushad and the composer helped her get WANTED IT TO BE a break in films. He put in PICTURISED ON A a good word for her with filmmaker Shaheed Lateef. FEMALE ARTISTE That was how the actress AND HENCE got a break in Sheesha (1952). She was just a KUMKUM GOT teenager then. She danced CHOSEN to the song Angana baje shehnai With Dharmendra in Lalkaar OBITUARY

With and Striking a pose

mushkil jeena yahan from CID (1956), Ja ja re ja balma from Basant Bahar (1956), Reshmi salwar kurta jali ka from Naya Daur (1957), Tera jalwa jisne dekha from Ujala (1959), Madhuban mein radhika nache re from Kohinoor (1960), Daga daga vai vai vai from Kali Top Rumaal (1959), Mera naam hai chameli from Raja Aur Runk (1968) and many more. On the cover of Filmfare With in CID She was active in the film industry until 1973. re, aaj moi jagmag atariya, and Kumkum became a KUMKUM ACTED One of her last films was composed by Ghulam star. gave her the anti-drugs film Jalte Mohammed. and an acting role as well in IN ONE OF THE Badan (1973) where Kiran Sajjan played the leads later films. She played his BIGGEST BHOJPURI Kumar was her hero. Her in the film. Though she bhabhi in the satire Mr and last release is said to be appeared on the screen for Mrs ’55 (1955) and played BLOCKBUSTERS Bombay By Nite (1979), only a few minutes, she the mother of five children CALLED GANGA which took a decade in the created a good impression despite being quite young making. and soon work started at that point of time. MAIYA TOHE PIYARI was her hero in the film. coming in. Kumkum got married Her claim to fame was he is best known for CHADHAIBO (1963), in 1975. Her husband Guru Dutt’s Aar Paar her roles in Mother WHICH WAS THE FIRST Sajjad Akbar Khan used to (1954). The song Kabhi India (1957), Ujala work in Saudi Arabia and aar kabhi paar was first (1959), Kohinoor BHOJPURI FILM after marriage, Kumkum picturised on Jagdeep but (1960), Son Of too shifted there. The the censors reportedly SIndia (1962), Mr X In couple were blessed with a wanted it to be picturised Bombay (1964), Aankhen Ganga Maiya Tohe Piyari daughter named Andaleeb on a female artiste and (1968), Geet (1970), Lalkaar Chadhaibo (1963), which Khan. Kumkum remained hence Kumkum got chosen. (1972), and Ek Kunwari Ek was the first Bhojpuri in the Gulf for around Guru Dutt, who was said (1973). film. She also appeared in twenty years and even after to be in a hurry to finish She also deviated Bhojpuri films like Ganga coming back remained the film, choreographed towards Bhojpuri movies and Bhauji as the heroine. a recluse, preferring to the song himself. It and acted in one of the Her evergreen dance stay away from the film became hugely famous biggest blockbusters called numbers include Ae dil hai industry. n OBITUARY DANCE Enjoying the rhythm of

DEVESH SHARMA CHRONICLES THE LIFE AND TIMES OF CHOREOGRAPHERLIFE SAROJ KHAN, WHO PASSED AWAY RECENTLY (NOVEMBER 22, 1948 – JULY 3, 2020)

With Madhuri Dixit Nene aroj Khan’s sometimes they had to as a child artiste. Her story is akin to subsist on one meal a first song as a dancer Ssomething spun day. Her mother used was in the film Aagosh by Salim-Javed in the to put water to boil and (1953). She played the ’70s. Partition played tell the children to sleep child , as she was a hand in shaping saying she’d wake them a better dancer, and many a destiny. Hers up after the food was Baby Naaz played the too became a riches-to- cooked. A neighbour, child . The song rags-to-riches story. Her who used to sell onion was Bansuriya kahe father, Kishanchand pakoras, used to give bajaaye, sung by Lata Sadhu Singh, was said them the leftover stuff Mangeshkar and Sudha to be an established in the evenings. Young Malhotra and composed businessman in Nirmala was fond of by Roshan. She , Pakistan. looking at the shadows became a full-fledged He and his wife and dancing along background dancer at Noni seemingly lost with them. Concerned, the age of 10. One of everything while her mother took her her earliest numbers With late crossing over to India. to the doctor, thinking was the stunning Saroj was born as something was wrong song, Nirmala Nagpal on with her. The doctor Aaiye meherbaan from November 22, 1948. told her mother that the noir film Howrah Soon, the family grew she was an imaginative Bridge (1958), directed and she had to share a child who loved by Shakti Samanta. room in a chawl with dancing and advised She was dressed up as five more siblings. In her mother to teach her a boy, leading another one of her interviews, dancing. group dancer. She can she stated that they She joined the film be prominently seen in were so poor during industry reportedly at the song. She however, an early age of three remained poor, despite With Amitabh Bachchan her childhood that

HER FIRST SONG AS A DANCER WAS IN THE FILM AAGOSH (1953). SHE PLAYED THE CHILD RADHA, AS SHE WAS A BETTER DANCER, AND BABY NAAZ PLAYED THE CHILD KRISHNA SAROJ BECAME A FULL-FLEDGED BACKGROUND DANCER AT THE AGE OF 10. ONE OF HER EARLIEST NUMBERS WAS THE STUNNING MADHUBALA SONG, AAIYE MEHERBAAN FROM THE NOIR FILM HOWRAH BRIDGE OBITUARY

With

SAROJ HAD AN UNCANNY MEMORY FOR DANCE AND USED TO PICK UP NUANCES WHICH OTHERS With Kajol FAILED TO NOTICE it all. In a documentary was the heroine of the stand in one posture made on her life, she film and Saroj was for hours together, till recalls asking Shashi instructed to make she got it right. Like Kapoor for money on sure the heroine got him, she later became the eve of , as her steps right. It must known for being a she would only be paid have been an uncanny hard taskmaster. Their later in the week. And experience for a chit marriage didn’t survive the thought of being of a girl to supervise long, however. Though without money during the movements of an she continued to love Diwali was unbearable. established star but she and respect him as a Shashi had 200 rupees didn’t lack confidence teacher. Two children With Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in his wallet, a big sum even then. were born to them. A in those days, which son, Raju Khan, and a he generously gave ohanlal became daughter, Kuku Khan, telephone operator for her. She said she never her guru, and who died in 2011 due a while in the Glaxo returned the money, S later, her lover to liver failure. She then company. But her heart thinking of it as a and husband. He was married businessman wasn’t in these mundane blessing. already married and 30 Sardar Roshan Khan jobs. Dance always Saroj had an uncanny years her senior. She in 1975 and it’s said remained a priority memory for dance was his assistant from she converted to Islam and she thankfully and used to pick up 1962-73. She confessed around that time. She caught the first break With Sara nuances which others that she wouldn’t have has a daughter named as an independent Ali Khan failed to notice. Soon, achieved anything if not Sukaina Khan by that choreographer in she was asked by dance for his strict training. marriage. Sadhana’s directorial directors to render the He taught her all he Life is hard indeed debut Geeta Mera heroine’s part to the knew. And she perhaps for those who live in Naam (1974). But the leading ladies. By the was more in love with the margins of fame and struggles were far from time Dr Vidya (1962) his dance than the fortune. In order to earn over. It was only with came along, she was person himself. Like an a more stable income the advent of Sridevi counted as a full- apt pupil, she absorbed perhaps, Saroj learnt in Hindi films that fledged assistant. The it all. Cultivating it nursing and worked Saroj Khan came to film was choreographed for a time when she for some time at the be recognised for her by B Sohanlal, who branched out on her KEM hospital. She also craft. Her first big was a trained classical own. He reportedly passed the steno-typist hit was perhaps the dancer. used to make her exam and worked as a Nagin dance, Main teri OBITUARY

With Kareena Kapoor Khan

With Madhuri Dixit and

With

With Rekha SHE CHOREOGRAPHED MADHURI DIXIT FOR THE EK DO TEEN SONG AND IT PROVED TO BE SUCH A BIG HIT THAT IT’S SAID PEOPLE USED TO GO TO THE THEATRES TO JUST SEE THE SONG dushman, from Nagina She is the recipient last, she was able to With Varun Dhawan (1986). Back-to-back of eight Filmfare demonstrate her love hits with Sridevi in Awards as the Best for dance in all its both Bhansali and the form of Mr India Choreographer, a record purity. It’s something Aishwarya went to (1987), where her of sorts. She won them she lived for. In one meet her in the night. song Hawa hawai for , Chalbaaz, of his interviews, She was heavily took the nation by Sailaab, Beta. Khal- Sanjay Leela Bhansali medicated, and even in storm, Chandni (1989) Nayak, Hum Dil De recollected how she that drowsy state, she and (1991) Chuke Sanam, was so ill during the asked the filmmaker cemented her fame. and Guru. She has also making of Devdas whether people won three National (2002) that she could clapped and whistled ezaab (1988), Awards for Devdas hardly move. And for the song or not... was the film (2003), Tamil film yet, lying on the This anecdote perhaps, T which proved Sringaram (2005), and floor, ignoring all With sums up her life in a historic for her. She Jab We Met (2008). the pain, she used to Taapsee nutshell -- someone choreographed Madhuri Sringaram (2005), instruct Madhuri and Pannu who lived for the Dixit for the Ek do teen starring Aditi Rao Aishwarya Rai and claps and whistles, song and it proved to Hydari in dual roles was able to execute which made her forget be such a big hit that was based on the life of , all the darkness she it’s said people used a Devdasi in the 1920s. which was shot faced earlier in life. to go to the theatres to Saroj Khan was known for around 15 And we’re sure that just see the song. She for her film dances but days. She was upstairs, in heaven, won the inaugural Best here the film was based hospitalised she’s correcting the Choreographer Award on Bharatnatyam. Such when the film form of hoors and the next year at the was her choreography got released. apsaras -- knowing , and that no one believed After that applause came dancing on stage it was executed watching doesn’t come to collect it when her by a Bollywood the first easy. n name was announced. choreographer. At long show, FEATURE HIT PARADE! DEVESH SHARMA LISTS OUT SOME OF THE BEST CHOREOGRAPHED SONGS BY SAROJ KHAN

ffectionately known as AMasterji, the late Saroj Khan was said to be a strict disciplinarian who nevertheless had a soft corner for all her heroines. She made sure all her stars gave their best, no matter what. It’s no wonder people clamoured to be choreographed by her. Her most fulfilling partnerships were said to be with Sridevi and Madhuri Dixit. But she gelled well with other heroines as well. Presenting a list of her best dance numbers down the years…

MAIN TERI DUSHMAN,DUSHMAN TU MERA NAGINA | 1986 The song had Sridevi gyrating like a snake. It combined elements of classical dance forms and folk traditions to create something unique. It was an intricate dance number with long takes. Saroj Khan reportedly made Sridevi rehearse like mad to get the look right. It’s all in the eyes as they say and when Sridevi looked at the camera, her eyes brimming with anger, you felt a shiver going down your spine. HAWA HAWAI MR INDIA | 1987 EK DO TEEN It was a fun, frothy TEZAAB | 1988 number. Sridevi looked Ek do teen was the number that catapulted Madhuri stunning even in that Dixit to the top. Choreographer Saroj Khan won the bizarre costume. Saroj Filmfare Award for her efforts in 1989 (the category Khan’s forte was in was created that year, thus making Khan the first making sure the actors winner). The song showcased Mohini’s (Madhuri got their expressions Dixit) acute professionalism. She had just fought with right. And Sridevi gave her father but you couldn't see it in her eyes or her some 40 expressions in movements as she got onto the stage and bantered that song, her mercurial face with the crowd. Saroj Khan reportedly made Madhuri flitting from one expression to the rehearse for 16 days. And the song, which was to other. You had eyes only for that body shimmering to become one of the most iconic dance numbers, was the fast-paced number. Saroj Khan caught the sur of shot over a week’s time. the song right and turned it into a number, which is still remembered today.

KATE NAHIN KAT TE MR INDIA | 1987 The heroine clad in a blue saree was slowly making love to an invisible man. The combination of and Saroj Khan made us believe that Sridevi was romancing an invisible man as she sexily gyrated to the tune. Sridevi did a hell of a job under Saroj Khan’s ministrations. It was one of the most sensual numbers ever filmed but the great thing was that there was no vulgarity in it. You can watch it with your family without feeling embarrassed. It has become a gold standard of sorts when it comes to picturising such songs. FEATURE

HUMKO AAJ KAL HAI SAILAAB | 1990 The number showed the heroine, caught in the first flush of love, dancing with gay abandon. Madhuri was a traditional Koli woman in the song. She was shown to be rescued from a fishing net and then she breaks into a dance. Strangely, most of the lines were sung by the chorus. Madhuri didn't have many lines to lip-synch and conveyed the feelings contained in the song through her eyes, through her movements. Saroj Khan reportedly asked her to keep her hair loose to showcase the free spiritedness of the character. Saroj Khan won a Filmfare for the song. MERE HATHON MEIN NAU NAU CHUDIYAN HAI MORNI BAGA MA CHANDNI | 1989 LAMHE | 1991 The song was picturised at The song was a typical wedding number and yet a campfire on the sands magically got transformed into an ethereal thing, of Rajasthan. It’s difficult thanks to the combination of Sridevi and Saroj Khan. to dance in the sand but Sridevi is dancing at a Ladies Sangeet, something Saroj Khan somehow that’s an integral part of every Punjabi wedding. It had overcame that difficulty and fast-paced choreography, again with long takes and gave Sridevi movements Sridevi did it all to perfection. The hand movements, in that mimicked the body particular, were in sync with the sound of the bangles. language of the peacock. Saroj Khan was known for noticing such things and Again, it was all in the eyes creating great moments out of little things. and Sridevi captured perfectly the feelings of a girl very much in love.

TAMMA TAMMA LOGE | 1990 It was a fast-paced number. Saroj Khan was known for her traditional numbers but this time she showcased her versatility by using choreography in this frothy number. The song reportedly got okayed in 48 takes. It had a complicated set of movements where Madhuri Dixit and Sanjay Dutt were seen using the chair as a prop. They wore a cap and Madhuri’s cap had to fall on her foot and remain there. But it kept falling off and hence multiple takes had to be taken. Madhuri and Sanjay both reportedly had bruised knees by the end of it all. FEATURE

CHOLI KE NIMBOODA PEECHE HUM DIL DE KYA HAI CHUKE SANAM 1999 KHAL NAYAK Saroj Khan won an award 1993 for Best Choreography It’s perhaps the most at the Filmfare Awards risque song of Madhuri’s for this song. It was a career. The double fast-paced number and entendre contained in the Saroj Khan is said to have lyrics could have totally rehearsed umpteen times gone haywire in lesser with Aishwarya Rai to get DHAK DHAK hands but Saroj Khan the steps right. It was said KARNE handled it deftly. Madhuri that Aishwarya's feet were was seducing Sanjay swollen while filming the LAGA Dutt in the song but song but she sportingly BETA | 1992 her expressions weren't carried on. The hook It was easily one of Madhuri’s cheap. They were of a girl moment incidentally involved most popular numbers. She lost in love. The song had hands and not feet. came to be known as the numerous dancers and Dhak dhak girl after that. The props and was difficult sensuality contained in the to shoot because of all song was almost palpable. the people and objects But it’s said that the song involved. It’s said it took was almost dropped from the over ten days to shoot the film as director Indra Kumar complete sequence. It was running behind schedule won Saroj Khan another and couldn’t afford a delay. Filmfare trophy. Half of the song was shot over a three-day schedule and Saroj Khan reportedly took up the challenge to wrap up the other half during one night. She kept everything flowing AKHIYAAN smoothly. Both Madhuri and Anil danced through the MILAOON KABHI night and were said to be RAJA | 1995 dead tired by the morning. The song had Madhuri partnering with . He wasn’t Thankfully, the song came out as proficient a dancer as Madhuri and Saroj Khan never let it perfect and went on to create show in her choreography. She kept their movements together cinematic history. Saroj won to a minimal, concentrating on expressions to get the job done. another Best Choreography It was only when the camera focussed solely on Madhuri did the trophy at Filmfare for it. movements became fast-paced.

CHANE KE KHET MEIN ANJAAM | 1994 It was a typical wedding/engagement function song made special by Madhuri’s deft movements. It was the song where Shah Rukh Khan gets mesmerised by Madhuri. The camera focussed on her face. Facial expressions were Saroj Khan’s speciality and she made Madhuri utilise them to the best of her capabilities. FEATURE

BARSO RE MEGHA MEGHA GURU | 2007

RADHA KAISE NA JALE | 2001 It was a traditional number, intricately choreographed. Unlike most Saroj Khan's songs, it was a slow burner. The steps were taken from folk and Kathak. The song was almost like a prayer and the movements retained the sanctity of the prayer. was quite a revelation in it, executing all the moves to perfection and too was graceful. The song had a lot of theraav, something you don’t associate with choreography Aishwarya Rai became one with the elements in this dance but Saroj Khan pulled it off. number from Guru. It was filmed amidst pouring rains. Saroj Khan came up with movements which looked good even in the monsoon. The song captured the joy of a young girl who is enjoying the rains and the choreography captured it to a T. Saroj Khan won another Filmfare trophy for the song.

YEH ISHQ HAYE JAB WE MET | 2007

It’s said that Saroj Khan used to scold Kareena Kapoor during the making of the song for not moving her feet fast enough. The choreographer asked DOLA RE DOLA her to forget everything DEVDAS | 2003 else and concentrate on The song was picturised on Parvati (Aishwarya Rai) and capturing the emotions (Madhuri Dixit) and appears during the and Kareena deftly nailed celebration of Durga Puja. It featured a face-off between the required movements. Madhuri and Aishwarya. Saroj Khan reportedly used a mix of It was a song which had Bharatnatyam and Kathak to choreograph the song. The song different set changes and had multiple dancers and featured both close-ups and long flowed from one situation shots. It’s said to be one of the most expensive songs ever to the other. Saroj Khan picturised. Bhansali is said to have shot it for around ten proved equal to director days. The shooting used to happen during the night, leaving Imtiaz Ali’s requirements everyone exhausted. But Saroj Khan made sure both the and won a National Award heroines stayed on their toes throughout. for her choreography. n reader’s reviews, box-office, celebrity column & more

@ranveersingh: Hair by: @deepikapadukone Very Mifune in ‘Yojimbo’. I like it. INSTA LIKE What do you think? Medley of moments Check out what your favourites are upto on ... Deepika Padukone looks all set for an alternate profession as a hairstylist and here’s her first piece of art.

@vickykaushal09: I miss machines. #majormissingmonday @iamsrk: Don’t know when my passion became my Vicky may be missing purpose and then turned into my profession. Thank the machines, but u all for so many years of allowing me to entertain this picture sure you. More than my professionalism I believe my comes as a treat for passionalism will see me through many more years sore eyes. of service to all of you. 28 years and counting... and thank u @gaurikhan for capturing this moment. Almost three decades and this man can still make anyone's heart flutter with just one look.

@priyankachopra: To the greatest joy of my life. 2 years ago on this day you asked me to marry you! I may have been speechless then but I say yes every moment of everyday since. In the most @aliaabhatt: pink sunset and a cool breeze unprecedented thoroughly enjoyed by two sweet peas time you made this Alia Bhatt and sister Shaheen Bhatt are weekend so incredibly enjoying their lockdown with some gorgeous memorable. Thank views and good company. Priyanka Chopra and Nick you for thinking of Jonas’ love story only gets me all the time. I am better with time. Here's to this the luckiest girl in the couple celebrating each day of world! I love you their beautiful marriage. @nickjonas Shatrughan Sinha’s racy rejoinders pg 70 LETTERS

July, 2020

1986–2020 SUSHANT SINGH RAJPUT

GONE Diva No 1 MADHURI TOO DIXIT–NENE SOON ZINGER A TRIBUTE TO THE ACTOR AYUSHMANN WHO’LL LIVE IN OUR KHURRANA HEARTS FOREVER SONAM KAPOOR AHUJA’S MARRIAGE MANTRAS

68-sushantfin-final-STAN.indd 1 26-06-2020 19:42:20 INREADERS WRITE THE AND BITE BACK... WITHMAIL LOVE AND AFFECTION

CELEBRATING BOLLYWOOD THE MAKING OF A st NEWCOMERS WITH OPEN RED CARPET OUTFIT 1Prize ARMS Your interview with Deepika 1500 Today, when there’s so much debate Padukone’s personal stylist about nepotism everywhere, it was Shaleena Nathani (June) was wonderful to read an interview of the newcomer Radhika a delight to read. I'm obsessed Madan (May). When a brand as prestigious as yours, with Bollywood fashion and gives a platform to the outsiders, it sends a positive vibe keep a close eye on trends to aspiring actors. from Bollywood events. The , Bangalore interview gave me a much deeper insight into everything that goes into making a , THE Bollywood star’s outfit. OFF-SCREEN HERO Akriti Bhatt, New Delhi In these times of gloom, Girl power: your piece on Sonu Sood st (June) came as a ray of THE OTT ERA light. The actor really went 2Prize ANUSHKA SHARMA'S It's truly laudable how the world all out helping those in 1000 ON A ROLL of OTT has gained prominence need and I feel he has set I love Anushka Sharma and I’m over time, not just in India but an example for the entire proud of the fact that she’s making giant strides globally. I love how today we industry with his actions. as a producer too. Her production company Clean are exposed to diverse content It was great to see such a Slate Films is churning out some really exciting stuff. from different parts of the world, Good Samaratian getting After watching their show Pataal Lok, which was which we can watch anytime as featured. phenomenal, I saw their latest film, Bulbbul, a one of a per our convenience. Recently, I Gurmeet Chaddha, kind supernatant drama. It definitely is one of the best watched Jitendra Kumar’s show Chandigarh things I've seen in recent times. titled Panchayat and absolutely Real Hero: Rahul Iyer, Chennai loved it. I would recommend Sonu Sood everyone to watch it, not just for some great performances but 10 MINUTES OF HAPPINESS even for its comic punches. In Your new online series titled ’10 Minutes Of Happiness’ our house, we have ditched our really lives up to its name. The show is all about cable TV and adopted this new positivity which I feel is much needed in these testing way of life. times. You should definitely get more stars on board for Komal Kulkarni, Mumbai the show. Rohan Joshi, New Delhi FASHION FOCUS SWEAT IT OUT WITH STARS! While people typically expect Not too long ago, I came across an article on the Filmfare to be only about Filmfare.com which showed superstar Aamir Khan movies, I love the fact that as joining his daughter Ira in a workout session online. a brand it goes beyond that After looking at that video, I got inspired to watch more and also shares the latest of such fun stuff. It would be amazing if you start a fashion trends of the industry. workout video series with our favourite movie stars. Keep up the good work! Aarti Goswami, Rewari Ananya Reddy, Hyderabad

VARUN DHAWAN lockdown we can make Just one PROVES WHY HE’S those close to our hearts MR PERFECT feel special. When I read Point Now, when the pandemic about Varun’s sweet has put the entire world gesture for his lady love in a state of lockdown Natasha Dalal’s birthday and some of us are in Filmfare (June), I was forced to stay away extremely touched. from our loved ones, my He sure knows how to favourite Bollywood actor charm a girl on and off Varun Dhawan proved the screen. that even during the Ahuja, Lucknow

Rishi and Irrfan in D-Day Two gems: Rishi Kapoor and Irrfan Khan Master and pupil: Amitabh Bachchan and I recently watched FILMFARE’S FITTING TRIBUTE Rishi Kapoor and Irrfan Bollywood lost two gems in Rishi Kapoor and Irrfan Khan Khan’s D-Day and was within a span of days. Naturally, this was a hard pill to digest BIG B AND AYUSHMANN KHURRANA’S blown away with their for many Bollywood fans like me. But when I read about their MAGIC ON THE SMALL SCREEN work. I must say that work once again in Filmfare (June), it filled me with happiness I was eagerly looking forward to watching Amitabh Bachchan the two have left an and reminded me that cherishing their work is the best way to and Ayushmann Khurrana in Gulabo Sitabo and felt it certainly irreplaceable void in mourn their loss. lived up to the expectations. The on-screen chemistry that they Indian cinema. Aaryan Nagda, Mumbai shared makes me hope for another such collaboration in the Ranjana Bisht, future. Shoojit Sircar proved yet again why he’s regarded as one of the best in the business. As a Bollywood fan, FILMFARE'S Rohan Chaturvedi, Gujarat I constantly keep LOCKDOWN checking Filmfare for CONVERSATIONS paparazzi pictures. But I've been following as we deal with the Filmfare for a really long pandemic, I wonder time on social media. when the ‘normal life’ There’s a series which will be back on track really impressed me. again. Until then, stay Filmfare's Lockdown safe everybody. Conversations with Atul Pujari, editor Jitesh Pillai is so OTT: The new order different from the usual celebrity interviews. His ease I recently read on with the stars, which I guess comes from his years of NEW AGE STARS filmfare.com that Shah interacting with them, is truly commendable. What's Thanks to the OTT platforms, we’ve seen a fresh wave of Rukh Khan might team great is that he makes an extra effort to take a deeper content come our way. While there’s no doubting the top-notch up with insight into not just the professional but the personal quality of these projects, what caught my attention was that for his next project. Well, life of the stars, without making them uncomfortable. shows like Paatal Lok and Asur have brought along a phase of I hope that the rumour It would be exciting if he gets superstar Amitabh the unconventional protagonist. Even though they might not be is true because I can’t Bachchan on board for a fun chat. Good luck with larger than life, they certainly come across as more relatable wait to see my favourite everything. to the audience. hero on screen again. Arjun Nadkarni, Pune Aashish Gupta, Ratlam Joyce Pinto,

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Packing a punch: Priyanka Chopra

Why does Sushant Singh are you so cheesed off? Your single line suggestion to Rajput's untimely death seem Priyanka Chopra is a very those who are sitting on the like a personal loss to us? beautiful celebrity, a good edge and thinking that their life Abhijeet Sharma, Faridabad human being as well as is not worth living anymore. Sushant Singh Rajput was an attractive actress. She Kabir, New Delhi a true son of the soil, a certainly seems to get what They must talk to people wonderful human being, she deserves. they are comfortable with a beautiful soul who and seek a professional PHOTOGRAPH: PHOTOGRAPH: MEETESH TANEJA remained rooted till the Why do successful people end help – the sooner the better. end. He was well educated their lives? and so grounded. And Santosh Joshi, Miraj #Metoo, ragging, nepotism – from a good family – we all I wish I knew. Mostly have you ever gone through this could relate/ identify with circumstances and phase in Bollywood? him easily. Hence it seems depression combine to Asif Kamruddin, Cuttack like a personal loss. make a person take such a These are sensitive issues. drastic step. But I could be I’ve no such experience of Priyanka Chopra earned more wrong. This is a question going through these most money playing Mary Kom than that should be asked to a talked about issues at the Mary Kom earned in her entire psychologist. I can only moment. I hope, wish and boxing career. Please comment. say that ending one's life pray to the Lord that no one Lalitkumar Kumpalath, Mumbai is never the right thing to ever gets entangled in such How does it matter to do. Success may get you problems, besides other you by the way – when happiness, peace and love problems as well. Mary Kom, the daughter but as they say...It’s always of the nation, herself lonely at the top. Is joint family better than living isn’t complaining? Why separately? Is anger ever a good thing? Santosh , Miraj Pankaj Goyal, Ambala In the times of corona, Does nepotism exist too much in our Hindi Never, never and never. living is more important film industry? Anger is a negative than living in a joint family Karan Nangia, Gurgaon emotion. It's destructive or separately. However, It’s said favouritism exists everywhere – in every and it's never advisable at this age, I do feel joint industry. People point fingers at the film industry to act impulsively when family is better than living because it’s visible here. one’s angry. separately. Currently, the 1st Prize What are the dumbest questions you have come across Mrs Deviya Kumar, New Delhi There are many to name a few – Shall I tell my parents I’m adopted? Does it take 18 months for twins to be born? Do you think NASA invented thunderstorms to cover the sound of space battles, and etc etc. 2nd Prize Many Bollywood stars are afflicted with rare cancers. Is their lifestyle one of the reasons for the ailments? Satya Behera, Odisha I’m not sure of that – which rare cancers are you referring to? Cancer is dreadful but it’s curable too. They say almost 70 per cent of cancer – thanks to our scientist and doctors is curable today and 30 per cent is controllable. If you are able to choose the right doctors and the right medication, right in time, there is a high chance that you might survive the disease. And one has to change the lifestyle to a certain extent as well for sure. Golden memories: Sushant Singh Rajput joint family can provide industry has its shameful It’s applicable all over my dear Manoj, perhaps the security, safety and care and ugly side – it takes the world – everywhere. we should handle it with needed when everyone is a while before things are It has got nothing to do extra care. living under the fear of the put in order. with coronavirus. Power pandemic. Both have their and corruption have been Has COVID-19 pandemic pros and cons, actually – Bollywood has a dark hand-in-hand since the united humanity? it’s up to you to decide. underbelly. don’t you agree? beginning of time. Power, Santosh Mohan Joshi, Miraj CV Aravind, on email corruption and money are It has frightened How much longer can It's now too late for me a deadly combination but humanity. Currently, Bollywood hide its ugly and to agree or disagree on coronavirus is deadlier everyone is isolated at shameful face? this matter. than anything. And has their own homes so surely Vijayalakshmi Aravind, on email nothing to do with them. it has united the family. Why do you say so? Power corrupts and absolute The so-called Bollywood, power corrupts absolutely – In spite of all the adversities (Feature co-ordinated by like any other is it applicable in Bollywood – and hardships, life is DEVESH SHARMA) organisation, has both and that too during the time beautiful; Isn't it? Please note: The column doesn’t good and bad sides. Its of coronavirus? Manoj Somai, Ajmer reflect Shatrughan Sinha’s political shameful issues are being Jayanthy Subramaniam, Life is beautiful indeed. or personal views. His answers are exposed gradually. Every Mumbai It’s God's gift to us – so given in jest and humour.

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greatThe Amitabh Bachchan leveller Abhishek Bachchan with daughter Aaradhya he entire nation immediate family can contract it, and wife Aishwarya Rai Bachchan underwent a tsunami of then the common man on the street shock when the news is doubly suspect. It can come from of Amitabh Bachchan, anywhere and conversely we can AbhishekT Bachchan, and later pass it on to anyone, without even even Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and consciously doing so. The sad truth Aaradhaya Bachchan contracting the is that till a reliable cure or vaccine dreaded coronavirus came calling. comes along -- and we don't know We had heard that some members how far into the future that is -- of Karan Johar's staff, Aamir Khan's we're all in danger from it. staff, and some members of Boney Strangely, despite being Kapoor's staff had got the virus. bombarded with enough messages But an actual star getting it was about it, we all seem to be taking it with something else indeed. Such is the lightly. We see images of Americans mom Dulari and love and respect that the Bachchans sunning themselves on beaches, of brother Raju Kher command that their fans from all Europeans enjoying their coffee in over the world started praying as bistros, of Indians going to places of and if they're able to pull it off one for their recovery. worship without any care. Shouldn't successfully, then we're sure the film Thankfully, they all seem to we, collectively as citizens of one industry will follow suit as well. be out of danger. Anupam Kher's planet fighting this worldwide These are hard times indeed. Going mother, Dulari who must be well threat, come to a consensus about it? forward, we're going to be tested into her 80s, has recovered as well. The film industry, like almost every step of the way. We've to be So there is hope indeed for all every industry out there, had been steady in our resolve and not let our of us. The disease can be fought, shut down since four months. guard down. Learning to live with the danger it represents can be It's slowly limping back towards the coronavirus is the new normal surpassed. normalcy. There have been talks of and the sooner we adapt to it, the But the bigger message here is that films resuming shooting under the better it will be for all concerned... no one is immune to this disease. strictest of guidelines. TV shows [email protected] If the biggest Indian star and his we hear have started shooting Twitter: @jiteshpillaai