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Vol. 5 No. 08 New York August 2020

Sanya Madalsa Malhotra Sharma breakout Angel face with talent a spunky spirit

Janhvi Priyanka Abhishek chopra Jonas Navigating troubled Desi girl turns Bachchan global icon Learning thefrom past Volume 5 - August 2020 Inside Copyright 2020 Bollywood Insider 50

Dhaval Roy

Deepali Singh

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18 www..com/BollywoodInsiderNY/ Scoops 12

SRK’s plastic act 40 leaves fans curious “ had a deeper connection with Kangana’s grading Exclusives Sushant” system returns to bite 50 64 her Learning from past; preparing for future 06 “I feel like a newcomer” 56 From desi girl to a truly global icon 12 Jonas Perspective Angel face with spunky spirit happy 18 32 Patriotic Films independence day “I couldn’t talk in front of ” 26 62 Actors on OTT 15TH AUGUST The privileged one 41 44

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3 Patriotic Fervor Of Bollywood Stars

iti Sunshine Bhalla, a young TV host in Williams during 2008 to 2011. In 2012, Shah New York, anchored Independence Rukh Khan, and R Day celebrations which were televised appeared on her show and shared their patriotic in India and 23 countries in Europe. She fervor. Here are the excerpts from their interviewed 11 governors and 22 congressmen fascinating interviews on Riti Bhalla Special. and senators of America, former President of Their full interviews can be watched on India, Dr. Abdul Kalam and Astronaut Sunita www.Bollywoodlnsider.us. REMINISCES ABOUT HIS FATHER IN INDIA'S FREEDOM STRUGGLE

Riti Bhalla:

Today we are celebrating the anniversary of India's Independence and I understand that your father played an active role in the freedom struggle; please tell us more SRK: about it.

His name was Mir Taj Mohammad. In terms of age, he was one of the younger freedom ighters going to jaiI when he was 18 or 19 and he told me a lot of stories of independence; so I have grown up freedom struggle; these people were rusted pots. The reason was to divide hearing them and somehow feel so wonderful, so positive, having the unity amongst these freedom extremely proud that my father was sacriiced their lives, some of them ighters. If you didn't take it fast part of the freedom struggle. And that their health. I say with great pride that enough, the rust would come and is why I become extremely outspoken they did not take any positions in cover it and then you couldn't eat the when somebody talks about my terms of favours from politicians, after daal after that. I feel privileged to have Indian-ness or my pride in being an Independence. been in such close touch with the Indian. I feel extremely privileged to freedom ighters, and it is great to be have been born in this family and My father's cousin brother,Lal Kile se aayee like an part of Independent India. It is an somehow to be chosen to be his son. awaazelder brother,Mangal Dhillon Shahnawaz General Shahnawaz was honour for me to be part of this a part of the slogan " patriotic programme. I wish everyone I have been brought up amidst , ". Happy Independence Day and freedom ighters. When I met them, all the happiness and the they were in their sixties or seventies. They told me stories that they would goodness you can get this year and for So I have grown up in an atmosphere be in jails and how daal would be the rest of your lives. having heard a lot of talks of the given to them and it used to be in SANJAY DUTT SHARES SENTIMENTS ABOUT FATHER

Riti Bhalla:

His father was a "PROUD DAUGHTER OF AN ARMY great Son of India, his mother was ... He is Baba to everyone in the ilm industry, and OFFICER" ANUSHKA SHARMA Bhai to the rest of the world. I am so thrilled to welcome Sanjay Dutt to our program. Mr. Dutt, Riti Bhalla: welcome.Sanjay Dutt: somebody. For them, it is just their job Anushka, on our Thank you Riti, I that they are doing really well. Hence program, we remember all those am so proud that you anchor such freedom ighters who laid down their may be that is why we are so proud of a great program. You spread lives for India's freedom and all of the Indian army or the defence forces awareness of our great country and those in the armed forces who continue of this country in general. So, I am a youRiti Bhalla: celebrate the Independence Day. to defend our country. Your own father very proud daughter of an army oficer. was a colonel in the army. Could you Patriotism has been instilled into our Mr. Dutt, your tell us a little more about that and what system right from the beginning. And father was a great patriot of India. I am really happy that I could be on When was under the turmoil message you would like to convey to of militancy, he walked from the sons and daughters of India who your show and can be a part of the celebration of the Independence Day. to Amritsar to pray for Anushka: protect our country? peace at the Golden Temple. He was such a great patriot and was involved For 23 years of my life, I wish everyone Happy Independence in so many other humanitarian I was living in an army set up and so I Day. It is a day that unites us as Indians causes. So, can you tell us more, if was brought up in a certain way. I allover the world wherever they may you talked about something like this at home. think these men are very selless. It be, not just India. It is a nice day where Sanjay Dutt: takes a certain amount of sellessness we all feel connected. It will be nice if Absolutely, he and a different mindset to be able to we can be proud of our country every was basically a Gandhian who be so courageous. The best part about single day, but we are deinitely proud believed in the ways of our great it is that they actually 't treat it like on this day collectively. Again, wish Father, Gandhi. He believed in they are sacriicing something for everyone, Happy Independence Day. non-violence, peace and harmony. He tried to help people of the country in whichever way he could. He used to have a troop called Sanjay Dutt will ly to the USA for treatment after being Ajanta Arts, where we used to diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer. The 61-year-old entertain the jawans on the borders. actor, who was admitted to Lilavati Hospital after He felt we should entertain the people that secure us. complaining of breathlessness on August 8, was discharged from the medical facility on Monday. The actor posted a statement on , announcing that he would be taking a “short break” from professional commitments to focus on medical treatment. On behalf of Bollywood Insider and our readers in the USA, we wish him a 5 speedy recovery, good health and long life. Learning from the past; preparing for the future

Shubarna Mukerji Shu t has been 20 years that Abhishek Bachchan Refugee has been a part of I Bollywood. A career that started with , has been questioned every few years. Does Abhishek have it in him to carry on the Bachchan legacy? Not one to shy away from , , ,criticism, he responds to it only through his work. He did thatGuru, with 6, reinstated his position with and more. He has doneManmarziyan a commercial potboiler like his series and also romantic drama like . Over the past years, so much had been written about his professional incapability that even his personal equations were being questioned. But the actor clearly seems to have brushed it all aside and moved on. Gone are theol Bachchan days when Abhishek Bachchan was playing second iddle to (BHappy New Year) or dancing in the crowded chaos behind Shah Rukh Khan ( ). The actor is now walking tall and away from the shadows of his illustrious father and super successfulBreathe: Into the wife. Shadows His web series debut is being applaudedBob Biswas even as he is convalescing from Covid- 19 The Big Bull infection. His next, (produced by Shah Rukh Khan) and (produced by Ajay Devgn) have Bollywood Insideralready aroused everyone’s curiosity. In his exclusive interview with , he shares what these past two decades have meant to him. You have to prep for everything you do. This profession demands a lot out of you. Personally, and professionally, it is not easy. Unfortunately, our audience only sees the glamorous side of it, but there is a lot of blood, sweat and tears that go into it. It is very competitive. Abhishek Bachchan7 Twenty years seem to have gone by quickly for your fans. They have applauded you as an actor, producer, I started out; I was high on euphoria length of the web series, the hours performer and now, even in your and everything seemed to be perfect. you put in are much more than it irst OTT release. How have you seen takes to make a ilm, so you have to But, there was a time I questioned ensure you don’t get restless. this journey; where do you see Breathe: Into the Shadows has been myself when certain ilms of mine yourself going from here on? the darkest you have gone thus far, weren’t working. I went up to my even taking Raavan into father and said that maybe I have consideration. Did that attract you made wrong decisions, maybe this is to the subject? I am terrible at speaking about future not the profession for me. And he plans. The best part about the future is talked to me like a colleague and told that you don’t really know where it’s me that he thought I had a long way to headed. I look back on my 20 years go and a lot more to do. It reinstated I had returnedManmarziyaan to , wrapping with gratitude. I’m very happy and my faith, and I haven’t looked back up a ilm I was shooting in Amritsar can’t complain. I’ve said this a few sinceWith the change of medium, did you then. called . I met the times; an actor is truly blessed and ind any signiicant difference creators and heard the basic plot line lucky to get even one ilm. For me, to between ilming for movies and for half an hour. I said yes based on have had opportunities for 20 years is web series? Is there any difference that narration. I just knew it’s truly a blessing and I thank the in the craft as an actor? something that was appealing to me. audience for it, while at the same time It was a great role for me to do. It is not hope to entertain them for the next 20 always that something like this comes to an more years. There are many stories to actor. What’s more, given the platform, you tell and a lot more work to be done. I have the space and time to actually go As far as the acting bit is concerned, through the character’s entire graph. So, you feel like I’m just getting started; I’m whatever medium it is, it’s pretty much can be certain that it will be well etched; very excited. For an actor, the high is perhaps the the same. Originally, there used to be a there was no way I was letting go of this opportunity. awards and accolades given on a difference in your approach if you grand scale, but the lows are the were acting on a stage as opposed to criticism and brickbats which are ilm. Films have a lot more close-ups also public. In the 20 years that have than stage; you cannot have subtle passed, did you ever feel like the nuances on the stage, because you There are many criticisms outweighed the have to perform for the person sitting appreciations? Did you ever regret in the front row up until the last row. stories to tell and a your decisions? Hence, there has always been that lot more work to stark difference between acting for theatre and ilm. That difference has be done. I feel like In my entire career, I have only once in not continued with ilm and series my life questioned my decision. You produced for a digital platform. At the I’m just getting see, when you are starting out, you are end of the day, the technique is the started; I’m very happy to do whatever roles you get, same, but you just do a lot more because you’re still reeling from the ilming. excited. fact that you have inally become an actor. I was in my early twenties when That bit was gruelling to an extent. The What was your mind space like, With ilms like Bob Biswas and The playing Avinash Sabharwal? Big Bull, you are completely you. But insecurity is good, because it transforming yourself as an actor. keeps you alive and wanting to Would you miss those days of improve all the time. carefree ilming and easier roles? It might have been so dificult Before Manmarziyan, we saw you in internalizing a character like that! a spate of ensemble ilms. It didn’t Mayank and I were clear on the fact really work well for your career. that it will need extensive prep. We How did the fact that you were not You have to prep for everything you actually got into 6 weeks of thorough playing lead in these ensemble do. This profession demands a lot out prep before we went into ilming. ilms affect you? of you. Personally, and professionally, Having said that, there was not much I it is not easy. Unfortunately, our could take from my personal audience only sees the glamorous experience for Avinash’s character and side of it, but there is a lot of blood, thank God for that. But yes, as a parent, For me, it’s always been about what sweat and tears that go into it. It is I could dip into that wealth of the role is and how it’s impacting the very competitive. What might appear experience that I have gathered over script. But I’ve to confess that’s going as an easy role, might be so far to change. If our audience perceives the last 8 years. removed from who I am, that I will something in a particular way, you Given the circumstances around us, have to work doubly hard for it. can’t expect them to think otherwise. do you think web series is the only Believe me, these serious, broody way forward? I started thinking that if I have a particular audience who expects roles might hit a dark realm, but something of me, I’ve to cater to that. might be much easier on an actor I can’t be on this journey thinkingBol I’ll than a carefree, loud man would be. So, don’t judge. It is an advantage, in today’s day and Bachchancontinue toHousefull 2 do whatever I’mHappy doing. I In these 20 years, what is the one age. A lot of people around the world New Yearloved being part of ilms like most important thing you have are still staying in the safety of their , and learnt? home. We have an opportunity to reach ; they’re still being spoken out to them with the work we’ve about. But I understand when people ask me why I’m taking up these done over the last two years. So yes, it supporting roles. I never understood will be beneicial and I’m thankful for that back then, but now, I know how It is most important to me that I now that. to interpret it differently. I think my know what I don’t want to do! When audience wants more from me. Does we are young, we are so busy making The transition has been so smooth you that mean I’m going to stop acting in lists of things we could like; we forget wonder if this is actually how it will be ensemble ilms? No, not at all, because to think about what we would now in future. For instance, I have I enjoy it. I’m just going to work absolutely not like…. That’s equally always enjoyed the travelling bit when towards changing the perception. important. it comes to promotions. I love going out and meeting my fans and interacting with my audience. I miss going out When people physically and all the fun of travelling ask me why I’m together with the rest of the cast and crew. However, I am sitting at home taking up and doing interviews for the last few supporting roles. weeks and I am almost certain, many I never actors would prefer this over the travel. It is eficient and far less understood that time-consuming. Perhaps this is the back then, but new way of life and I am sure to enjoy now, I know how this too. to interpret it Having said that, I don’t think cinemas differently. I and ilms are on their way out. There is think my a deinite charm in going to the theatres, enjoying that feel. It might be audience wants a while for things to go back to normal, more from me. butThey say this profession comes with it will. I’m just going a lot of insecurities. Do you agree? to work towards changing the perception. Absolutely, and those insecurities are important. The only thing is, you can’t 9 allow some of them to take control of Bollywood Insider August 2020

On the occasion of this Independence Day, we remember and salute all the freedom ghters who gave up their lives so India could be free. Greetings from Irada Foundation, Falguni & Chintu Patel Bollywood Insider August 2020

Let’s celebrate the glory of a free India and uphold the prdie and honor of being an Indian.

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Call or WhatsApp Facebook.com/CLBVisaCenter/ 11 From desi girl to a truly global icon

July is quite possibly Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s favorite month of the year. Only, this year has been a tad more special. While she turned 38 on July 18, she also turned 20 on July 4. Confused? Well…the latter is the number of years she has spent in show business and going by the number of projects she has lined up, there are no signs of her slowing down even as she approaches 40.

Jaydip Sengupta Matrix 4 Reeves - yes, you read that right - in multimillion-dollarVariety irst-look . television deal with , reported . As per the hat sets Priyanka Chopra But then, it is not just her on-screen publication, a general meeting with W apart from the rest is her roles that has kept her in the news. Amazon Studios head Jennifer Salke zest for charting her own Priyanka was recently announced as was what led to the irst-look deal. course, a course that took the ambassador of the Toronto her all the way from to International Film Festival (TIFF) In between, she was a special guest at Los Angeles. That she was born in the 2020. She has joined the list of 50 the 2020 Girl Up Global Leadership same city as I was makes it all the celebrated ilmmakers and actors Summit from July 13-15 that featured more exciting to write about her who are invited as the ambassadors Michelle Obama, Sheryl Sandberg and exploits right from her being crowned of the TIFF. Meghan Markle among others. in 2000 to starring alongside Hollywood heart-throb Keanu She has also signed a two-year Pretty high-lying, wouldn’t you say? My quest really is to be able to tell female stories, work with creators from around the world and create a cross-pollination of storytelling, My Amazon television deal is a global deal, so I can do , I can do English language, I can do whatever language I want.”

13 But then, that’s hardly surprising given she always aspired to be an aeronautical engineer. Not longThe after sheHero: Love Story of a Spy stole hearts at the 2000 Miss World beauty pageant, her career in Bollywood took off with , opposite in 2003. She played the leading lady in the box-ofice hits (2003) and (2004) and received critical acclaim for her role in the 2004Krrish thrillerDon . Priyanka established herself with starring roles in the top-grossing productions and (both 2006) and she later reprised her role in their sequels.

In 2006, Priyanka began working with UNICEF and was appointed as the national and global UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for child rights in 2010 and 2016, respectively. Meanwhile, she continued her ambitious walk down the Bollywood ramp in 2008 by playing a troubled in the dramaDostana Fashion, which won her the National Film award for the Best Actress and then as a glamorous journalistKaminey in . Priyanka gained wider7 Khoon Maaf recognition for portrayingBari! a range of characters in the ilms (2009), (2011), (2012), (2014) and Her (2015). big moment in The desi girl year 2015 was a Hollywood, though, pivotal one for the will come when she . She set her sights on conquering shares screen space the US when she with Keanu Reeves in ventured into the world of American Matrix 4. The John ilm and television Wick star, one of the as AlexQuantico Parrish in the ABC thriller most-loved actors in series , Hollywood. becoming the irst South Asian to headline an American network drama series. PriyankaBaywatch has Isn’t It Romantic since played supporting roles in the Hollywood comedies (2017) and (2019). In 2016, she was awarded and Time named her one of the 100 most inluential people in the world. In 2017 and 2018, Forbes listed her among the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women.

Her net worth at that time stood at a cool $30 million.

Long before she had ventured into movies in Hollywood, however, sheIn My City had already tried her hand at singing and not surprisingly, she struck gold Exotic there as well. Her 2012 number , featuring ‘Will.I.Am’ was a rage with Indian audiences, before in 2013, featuring Pitbull, made her an international singing sensation with her music video making it to no. 12 on the US Dance Charts. But what really made her a household Jonas Brothersname in the west wasJumanji her marriage in 2018 to singer/actor Nick Jonas of the and fame. Brand Priyanka Chopra Jonas soared to unchartered territories as the duo became familiar faces at all major events in the US, including the Met Gala last year, where she turned heads with her fairytale look.

In terms of sheer global appeal, Priyanka has leftDesperado her peers in Spy KidsBollywood far behind. Besides Keanu Reeves and the and franchise director RobertAvengers Rodrigues,Citadel she will be collaboratingRain Man, Bugsywith Russo brothersWag the Dog of fame Sheelain and Barry Levinson of and fame in in her forthcoming Hollywood projects.

She will next star in twoThe White Tiger ilms for Netlix: an adaptation of Aravind We Can Be HeroesAdiga’s satirical novel and Rodriguez’s superhero ilm . SheTulia will also be seen as lawyer Vanita Gupta in the courtroom drama and has committed to star alongside Mindy Kaling in a comedy about an Indian-American wedding.

Her big moment in Hollywood,Matrix 4 though, will comeJohn Wick when she shares screen space with Keanu Reeves in . The star, one of the most-loved actors in Hollywood and beyond, will reprise his role as Neo in the Sci-i thriller franchise, hailed as I can do English language, I can do one of the most iconic and inluential whatever language I want.” movie franchises in recent times.

While the legendary Lana Wachowski, Yes! She is now in a position to call one of the sister duo, who is also the the shots, moving as it were, to the co-writer and director of the movie, next level, muchJumanji like her hubby Nick hasn’t yet revealed the Indian Jonas, who did it with the latest actresses’ role, it is another step for instalment of . With more Priyanka to “course-correct than 7 Hollywood projects lined up Hollywood’s treatment of South Asian alongside big names, Priyanka is actors and people behind the scenes.” proving she is now an integral part of the Hollywood matrix and not just a Talking to a publication, Priyanka said, glitch in it. “My quest really is to be able to tell In 2016, Priyanka was female stories, work with creators awarded Padma Shri and from around the world and create a Time named her one of cross-pollination of storytelling,” the 100 most influential adding, “My Amazon television deal is people in the world. 15 a global deal, so I can do Hindi language, Bollywood Insider August 2020

Independence Day is both ... an occasion to celebrate ... and to remember the struggles of those who fought to give us this gift.

15th

AugustHappy Independence Day Bollywood Insider August 2020 Happy Independence Day To all my in the Indian American Community Congressman Tom Suozzi

“Today, we celebrate the 74th anniversary of Indian Independence Day. Throughout my career in public service, I have worked to elevate the US-India partnership and believe it to be one of our most important relationships for the next 50 years.

Our relationship is driven, in part, by our vibrant Indian American community, one of the most industrious and successful diaspora populations in the world. Today, we also celebrate their contributions to our communities here on Long Island and in Queens. I wish all my friends in the Indian community happy, healthy, and safe celebrations. Jai Hind!” CONGRESSMAN TOM SUOZZI

17 Madalsa Sharma Angel face with a spunky spirit

Samrat & Cowith her second Hindi ilm in 2014, and ’ Jaydip Sengupta . which received rave essaying the character of Kavya, the reviews overall, a great re-launch for colleague and girlfriend of the Madalsa. But it failed to generate the hat do you get when you protagonist’s husband. Her real-life necessary hype required for her to W combine parts of Goddesses join the big league. Two more movies mother Sheela Sharma had been a Mahalaxmi, Durga and well-knownNadiya Ke Paar face in BollywoodGhatak Yes Boss, and followed, before her last release in 2018. Saraswati from Hindu mythology? A Mann, Hum Saath Saath Hai, Chori Chori Indian Television, having starred in ilms entity named Madalsa! Chupke Chupke like , , While her story does mirror that of several others in the industry, what Well… that’s probably stretching Anupamaa Mahabharat and , besides really piqued my interest in things a bit too far, but then that is also regaling audiences as Devaki in interviewing her was the discovery how actress Madalsa . that she had also starred in a Punjabi Sharma actually got her name. Truth Angel and a German ilm, besides Telugu, be told, the name did ring a distant Madalsa’s Bollywood debut came in , Tamil and ive Hindi movies bell, until I remembered why. Wasn’t 2011 with , where she stunned among 17 in all. Her busy schedule she the girl who had married one and all in her role as a cerebral notwithstanding – she had just packed Bollywood legend ’s palsy patient. Despite her up shooting for the day – Madalsa son a couple of years back? heart-rending performance, the ilm came across as someone who had her failed to generate much interest at the feet irmly on theAnupamaa. ground even as A little digging revealed more about the Box Ofice. Meanwhile, she went back accolades kept pouring in for her brown-eyed beautyAnupamaa who had just landed to being Madalasa, as her large South Bollywood Insider.performance in Excerpts a pivotal role in the Disney+ Indian fan base referred to her. She from her free-wheeling chat with drama series , was soon back in Bollywood, though, During my growing years, I was always passionate about doing films, since I wanted to be like mom.

19 My role in Angel completely restricted the use of my limbs. It was my debut in Bollywood and I did not want to leave any stone unturned for the role.

What prompted you to move to Let’s talk about Angel, your debut in ilm did not work? television? Bollywood. How did that come about?

The actual game is releasing. The ilm It was a leap of faith for me, moving My association with dance was made so well, but we went wrong from movies into TV and it has been a got me the with the release. There wasn’t much great beginning. It’s a very good role, breakthrough role in Bollywood. publicity done. That was the time impactful, exciting and interesting with Ironically, despite being trained under when the transition from solo to lots of shades and layers. Angel How similar are you to the character both Ganesh Acharya and Shiamak corporate releases was happening, so Kavya in Anupamaa? it was challenging for solo producers. Davar, my role in completely Also, luck plays a big part in a ilm’s restricted the use of my limbs. It was success. About 20-25% is how well the my debut in Bollywood and I did not ilm is made, the rest is packaging and Very similar actually; we both are want to leave any stone unturned for contacts. If a ilm is released in workaholics, independent, ambitious, the role, painstakingly getting into the multiple theatres, there are more but Kavya is probably more ambitious. Why do you think despite your skin of a cerebral palsy patient. chances of it making money and Besides, her personality changes as Angel performance being applauded, the becoming a hit, which wasn’t obviously she goes along, starts off being a very the case with . bold woman, but mellows down as the serial progresses. Given your mother was such a noted actor, was it a natural choice for you to go into ilms?

My mom was such an inspiration and so was my dad Subhash Sharma, who is a ilmmaker. I have grown up in that environment right from when I was a little girl. During my growing years, I was always passionate about doing ilms, since I wanted to be like mom. I wished to start as soon as I inished .Why did you choose to go south irst before Bollywood?

My irst ilm was in Telugu, back in 2009. I always wanted to start in the south ilm industry, since it is as big as Bollywood. It was great training experience acting in different I guess films will have to wait for now. I want . My irst offers came from to make it big on television and I am happy south, so the timing was perfect, as I people love my character Kavya in Anupamaa. had just begun to look out for good roles. Do you have any regrets looking Finally, given your popularity in the back to that period, where you again US, thanks to your portrayal in had to go down south? Anupamaa, would you say that this television and I am happy people love my is what you will be concentrating on character Kavya. I really couldn’t have right now, even if a movie offer asked for more. comes your way? Not at all. Actually, the two industries are pretty much the same, one as professional as the other. The south ilm industry is technically as advanced Absolutely. I love whatAnupamaa I am doing and the dedication and the right now and given there is no time environment are the same. It’s only the limit to how long will be language that is different,” she said. You married Mimoh Chakraborty in on, I guess ilms will have to 2018 and since then, this is your wait for now. I want to irst time in front of the camera. How make it big on much of an inluence has your father-in-law Mithun Chakraborty been in your life?

It was Mithun dad who coaxed me to try my hand in television. He is like a father igure to me. I have always been inspired by his sincerity at work. He discusses everything with us; his thoughts, his experiences. Mimoh also gives his feedback about how I have performed. I am really blessed. Do you have any upcoming Bollywood releases?

I have a ilm which was in its post-production stage and would have been released Kartoothad it not been for the pandemic. It is named and is produced by . I guess it will be released next year. A lot has changed for you since your Angel days. Where do you see yourself in say, another ive years from now? It was a Angel leap of faith I was just a teenager in ; now experiences for me, moving from have made me grow. movies into TV and it has I am much calmer and mature now. been a great beginning. It’s Looking further a very good role, impactful, into the future, I see myself doing good exciting and interesting work in the industry, progressing personally with lots of shades and professionally. and layers.

21 MADALSA’S BRUSH WITH A TIGER “ ke agey hai !”

Madalsa gained a lot of popularitySuper 2 for her daring performance in the reality show by E TV Telugu, produced by Vajayanthi Films. “It was the most thrilling experience of my life; I had to walk into a cage with a scary. But I didn’t want to give up. I am not the quitter type. To my surprise I did the task and won that round. For me, I won’t be that afraid of a tiger anymore. It was a fabulous experience. I can’t tell you how awesomely amazing thisDarr ke agey task was. I won jeet hai.over my fear in the end and as they say, ” Up close and personal with… Madalsa Sharma

My strength - Parents My weakness - Spicy food & adventure sports My greatest fear - Karma My fantasy - Travel the world and bungee jump from the highest peak I love - Acting, dancing, travelling, playing with my pets, cooking I’m superstitious about - I’m not superstitious My hero – My father Subhash Sharma My best asset - Eyes My passion - Dance My biggest necessity - Constantly being pampered My prized possession - My walk-in wardrobe My favorite destination - New York, of course!!!! My pet peeve - Mimoh What touches me the most: When people who matter to me the most appreciate my work. Bollywood Insider to me is - The best publication in the United States that covers every bit of Hindi cinema. I’m honored to be featured in Bollywood Insider - again. “Lots of Love for readers of Bollywood Insider !!”

23 Bollywood Insider August 2020

AUGUST 15TH INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY Bollywood Insider August 2020

25 S A N Y A

M A “I met Anupama on the irst day of the shoot in . She told me a lot about her mother and L about the bond that they shared.”

Deepali Singh H

hakuntala Devi anya Malhotra is self-admittedly The trained contemporary and ballet dancer’s O blessed when it comes to ilm roles latest release S , sees her in the and offers. The curly-haired actress role of the mathematician’s daughter, Anupama. has been a partDangal of two of the highest The mother-daughter relationship forms a Badhaai Hogrossing Indian ilms of all times – her signiicant part of the biopic and Sanya, again, is only glad that it gave her the opportunity to work T debutPhotograph ilm in 2016 and Bollywood Hollywood Reporter in 2018. Her performance Insiderwith the powerhouse performerLudo VidyaPagglait Balan, the in Ritesh Batra’s was picked out by protagonist of the ilm. Talking to The for being a ‘breakout , the artiste who has and in talent’th when the movie was screened at the the pipeline, says she would rather focus on her R 69 Berlin International Film Festival. role than bother about Box Ofice igures. A S I have never taken the pressure of Box Office. It’s just been four years for me in the industry. I’m just really happy that I’m getting to entertain the audience even during these tough times.

27 in the various academic ields. She was ahead of her time. But she also shared a unique bond withilmi her daughter, which you will realise if you watch the ilm. It looks so , but all of it really happened. It was narrated to the ilmmaker Anu by ’s daughter Anupama herself. It’s a very important aspect of her life because, at a time when this lady lived her life on her own terms, there was this daughter of hers who wanted her to be a normal parent. The script covers itDid you get a chance to meet beautifully. Anupama and discuss your character with her?

I didn’t meet her while I was prepping for the character, but I had the script as the material. Anu had done all the research and she was my go-to person for any more information I needed to build for the character. I met Anupama on the irst day of the shoot in London. She told me a lot about her mother and about the bond that they shared. I discussed the psyche and the backstory I had developed for my character before going on set and I got that validation from her that maybe I was on the right path. This is your irst release on an OTT platform. Is the pressure less because there are no Box-Ofice demands or is it more because so many people in different countries You come across as someone who What’s the one quality of hers that will be watching you? enjoys the lighter side of life and has been a takeaway for you? Vidya Balan self-admittedly loves a laugh. Was that something you both bonded over on the sets of the ilm? I have never taken the pressure of We all know how brilliant she is as an Box Ofice. It’s just been four years for actor. Now that I have worked with her me in the industry. I’m just really happy so closely, I think she is a brilliant that I’m getting to entertain the Yes, eventually we did. However, co-actor to work with too. She is there audience even during these tough before the shoot started, we met for a with you throughout. Even if the times. The fact that the ilm has reading and because I’m this huge camera is not on her and she has to cry released in 200 countries is a very Vidya Balan fan, I couldn’t talk in front in a scene to give you a cue, she would special feeling. The only pressure is of her! I thoughtki chup hi raho to behtar hai I might make a fool do it for a co-actor. This quality of hers whether people will like my of myself. To avoid that situation, I laughs is something I will always keep close performance or not. decided ! to my heart. I will try and be a good ( ) It was on the third day of the actor, but also try and be a good shoot that she very cutely asked, co-actor to the actors I’m working ‘Sanya you don’t talk a lot, do you?’ If I am convinced by with. That broke the ice. I thought I have to How important is the the character and the be normal now. You can’t be in a very mother-daughter angle in Shakuntala script, I will do it no sad, subtle mood around her anyway. Devi’s story? She has such a witty sense of humour matter what platform and makes everyone laugh on the sets. it is. I think that’s one of her most beautiful qualities. We all are aware of her achievements Are you keen on exploring the digital platform space further?

Absolutely. There are a lot of good, content-driven series and ilms that are being written for the OTT space. As an actor, I want to do everything. If I am convinced by the character and the script, I will do it no matter what From the beginning of your career, platform it is. you have had the privilege of working with some really talented ilmmakers and co-actors. How has that added to your growth as an actor?

A lot! I have neither learnt acting nor read any book on it. Now that I’m at home, I have started taking masterclass online, but having said that, being on set has been a huge learning experience for me. Each time I do a ilm, I take something back with me. It can be from the set or from the prep period. Most of thelaughs ilmmakers I have worked with like to rehearse, exceptBas set pe aa jana Sanyafor ! ( ) Dada laughed when I asked him and just said, ‘ !’ That was also a very good experience. Sometimes you just have to let loose and not know anything aboutLudo the character you’re playing. It kept me on my toes while shooting for . With every project, You only live You seem to have learned how to you learn something about the craft. once. Though I balance the commercial with the love acting, I slightly off-beat. How much of your career has been planned? also want to explore my love for dance. I am completely going with the low. Do you have any special message I haveDangal been so lucky when it comes to for the readers of Bollywood the scripts I have been offered till now. Insider, the only publication in New After , the only thought I had York and northeast United States, was that I will only do ilms I believe entirely dedicated to Hindi Cinema? in and characters that I will be able to consciously try to make that strong do a good job of. That’s the only way I boundary between my work and my can convince the audience that I am personal life. I think that’s the reason that character. I have never chosen I have been able to keep that toxicity New York has my heart! I have never ilms thinking ‘let’s do it because it’s a away, but I have also been very lucky said this before, but I think I will take There is so much noise about sure-shot hit at the Box Ofice’. with the kind of people I have been a sabbatical some day and go to New insiders versus outsiders. How do working with. They have always been York and just dance for one or two you manage to keep the noise out helpful and are helping me to grow as years. You only live once, after all! and focus on your work? a person and as an actor. Every time I Though I love acting, I also want to need advice, my go-to people are my exploreShakuntala Devi my love for dance. So, for all team. Also, I have a very strong instinct those reading this interview, please and I listen to it. My dream was to watch laughs and if you have I have a wonderful team that I work become an actor and I am in no hurry a dance school in New York, get in29 with. Being an actor is a job for me. I to become a superstar. touch! ( ) Bollywood Insider August 2020

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31 When Bollywood made us feel proud as Indians Deepali Singh Haqeeqat Purab aur Paschim Roti Border Kapda aur Makaanin in his subsequentKranti War movies suchUri: The Surgical Strike as (1964), productions, , (1997) and the National n 1965, theShaheed then Prime Minister and , and Award-winning of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri uniied the country in an intense in 2019 brought out the patriot in all watched about the life of feeling of patriotism.Kismet Purab of us. But there are many other subtle freedom ighter and Aur Paschim Airlift ways in which ilmmakers have made was so moved that he requested Whether it was in 1943, us look at our motherland with a actor-ilmmakerJai Jawaan, Jai Kisaan in 1970 or in 2016, feeling of unwavering allegiance and to produce a ilm based on the slogan rd Bollywood has had a long love affair love. As the country looksBollywood Insider forward to ‘ Upkar ’. Within with movies that celebrate nationalistic celebrating its 73 Independence Day just 24 hours, Manoj Kumar had fervour. From freedom struggle to on August 15, 2020, written the script of (1967), sports, wars and social issues, Hindi takes a look at somedeshbhakti Hindi ilms of the while travelling from Delhi to Bombay cinema has explored patriotism in last two decades that have brought on a train. He replicated the Indian various forms and given us movies to out our sense of . values and patriotic ideals portrayed cherish for a lifetime. I (1999)

It is to the director, John Mathew Matthan’s credit, that a ilm on cross-border terrorism turned out to be so entertaining and at the same, managed to transcend the medium and strike a chord with the audience. The no-nonsense approach to the Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001) narrative, powerful performances by as ACP Rathod and Love stories that transcend delivered in Sunny Deol’s as boundaries have a special inimitable style and beautiful SarfaroshGulfam Hassan, a place in our hearts – they songs that complemented Muhajir, ensured that show us that love doesn’t the narrative. The movie left an care about religion, caste or cemented Deol’s position as indelible mark on social status. Set in the time the ultimate patriotic mascot people’s hearts of the in of India and was an all-out and minds. 1947, this love story between blockbuster in every sense an Indian Sikh truck driver of the word. and a Pakistani girl, had chest-thumping dialogues (2001)

The British leeing India, Lagaanwins the game. Considered a post the freedom struggle, masterpiece in Indian cinema, is high up there on the is a ilm every Indian country’s turning points, is proud of. It was also but defeating them in a nominated for the Best game invented by them? Foreignth Language ilm at the Now, that’s a 74 . different kind of joy altogether! Bhuvan (Aamir Khan) and his gang of amateur (2006) buddies try and change their village’s destiny by defeating the arrogant Brits in What can an ordinary citizen Soha Ali Khan among others. a game of cricket. You ind yourself do for the country? If there’s The everyday guys turn cheering for one movie that raised this heroes as they take inspiration them and question and answered it from freedom ighters and jumping with joy beautifully as well, it is this ight corruption. The ilm is as the simple, Rakeysh Omprakash even said to have inspired yet determined Mehra-directorial starring youth activism in the following villager hits an ensemble cast of Aamir days, with a direct impact on the ball for a Khan, Sharman , the Jessica Lall murder case. boundary and R. Madhavan, and

(2004)

Yeh jo des hai mera, swades hai mera…

AR ’s soulful voice and ’s simple yet powerful lyrics play in the background as Shah Rukh Khan’s character Mohan grapples with loneliness, missing his motherland as he goes about his job in a country that’s not his own. The song as well as the ilm is bound to tug at the heart of any Non-Resident Indian who is far away from his homeland. Inspired by the true story of an NRI couple, ’s directorial went on to become a cult classic and is considered one of SRK’s best performances till date.

33 A Wednesday (2008)

The common man’s plight commissioner and a common largely goes ignored when man against each other. Shah’s the nation is threatened by rage found a connection with terrorist attacks and bomb the masses who have often blasts. But, when the borne the brunt of terrorist common man is played by activities. the supremely talented Naseeruddin Shah, an actor who directs all his pent-up anger and angst against a system that has failed to deal with terrorism, you cannot ignore the voice anymore. Nor Chak De! India (2007) can you ignore this directorial that pits a Seeing India win at sports in the World Cup inal in police any international . As the crowds go competition is boundChak De to wild and the sky breaks out India leave you feeling into ireworks, you watch overwhelmed. And ! Shah Rukh Khan looking up magniies those at the Indian National lag feelings a thousand-fold as with tears welling up in his you watch the underdogs – eyes. At that moment, all you the Indian women’s want to do is stand up and national ield hockey team – salute the lag yourself. score the winning goal at (2018)

One doesn’t need to be a becomes India’s eyes and soldier or be recognised ears in , and makes and honoured the ultimate sacriice for her for their motherland. There are no contributionRaazi lengthy monologues or to the nation. over-the-top sequences, but ’s subtle performances and a Sehmat, pace that’s akin to a thriller. played by Ultimately, this , is a beautifully-made ilm regular girl reminds us that IndiaAe and who watan…Pakistan share a history and culture. The song ‘ ’ is a reminder that patriotism doesn’t need to be jingoistic, only heartfelt. Bollywood Insider August 2020

BHAGWAN SHREE NARAYAN DHAM

Brahmrishi Kumar Swami Ji being honored by President of India, Shri .

From Struggle… To Freedom… To Progress… India moves forward. Celebrating with you the pride of being part of a nation that is eternal and ever-new…

35 Community News & Events Dr. Sampat Shivangi GOP Convention Delegate

candidate for the presidential election India and Indian-Americans have the in November. best ever friend in the White House”, said the veteran Republican leader. Dr. Shivangi, the national president of Indian-American Forum for Political With his close ties with the US Education, was irst elected delegate Congressional leaders and three US to the Republican Convention in New Presidents as well as three Prime York City in 2004, to nominate George Ministers of India, Dr. Shivangi has W Bush for President. In 2008, he was lobbied for several Bills in US elected delegate at Minneapolis to Congress on behalf of India over the nominate John McCain and in 2012 at past three decades, including US India Tampa, to nominate Mitt Romney. In Civil Nuclear Treaty and recently the 2016, Dr. Shivangi attended the RNC US India Defense Treaty. In 2017, convention in Cleveland, Ohio as a Dr. Shivangi received Pravasi Bharatiya delegate to nominate the current Samman Award from the President president, Donald Trump. of India.

“It is a great honor to be a part of this historic convention to re-nominate r. Sampat Shivangi, a renowned and re-elect President Trump for D community leader and a veteran another four years. Under President of the American Association of Trump, the United States has made of Indian Origin (AAPI), has unprecedented progress. Until we been elected delegate to the Republican were hit by coronavirus, the US Party’s National Convention that would economy was at an all-time best. And formally nominate Donald Trump as its to top it all, under President Trump, Xavier School of Aruba Approved by NY State

resident the Caribbean by Money Inc. PBhooplapur is Magazine in 2018 and has a 96% pleased to USMLE irst time passing rate. announce that on I miss your laugh; I miss your smile July 17th, 2020, Under the leadership of I miss your voice; I miss you beside me. the New York Chancellor Dr. JG Bhat and I cannot see you; I cannot touch you Board of Regents Chairman of the Board Mr. Edwin But I can always feel you because you voted to approve Casey and Chief Academic Oficer are in my heart. Xavier University School of Medicine Dr. Arun Dubey, Xavier University I wish you could come through the door Aruba to place students in long-term School of Medicine Aruba is So that I could hold you and not let you go. clinical clerkship in New York State for committed to providing high 7 years. This is the longest term of quality affordable medical Even though God has taken you to approval that can be given to an education to everyone. His heavenly abode, International Medical School. He cannot separate you from my soul. Along with approval from New Life is full of mysteries, no one can explain New York State Education Department York State Education Department, Wish you were here to take away my pain. approval allows Xavier graduates to Xavier University School of enter residency training in New York Medicine Aruba is one of a few The world is sleeping, yet I am awake and complete all 72 weeks of clinical schools to hold full Looking at your picture in the frame. training in New York teaching hospitals. accreditation from both ACCM and CAAM-HP. The United States I pray to God for you to come in my dreams Department of Education, through So that we can talk forever until it is dawn Night after night, ‘till I am gone. This great achievement makes Xavier its National Committee on Foreign as only one of seven Caribbean Medical Medical Education and Schools to be approved by New York Accreditation (NCFMEA), YOU ARE FOREVER IN MY HEART Sushma Bhatia Narula State Education Department. Xavier is recognize both ACCM and CAAM-HP ranked as a top ten medical school in as approved accrediting bodies. Bollywood Insider August 2020

th Happy74 Independence Day of India

“Throughout my career in public service, I have been an ardent supporter of India, their sovereignty and have always stood with them in their fight against terrorism. The US-India relationship will be one of the most important in the next 50 years and beyond. I have spent my time in Congress in promoting this relationship and will continue to do so.” CONGRESSMAN TOM SUOZZI Letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo August 12, 2019

“Long live the friendship between India and the United States!!”

Houston (2019) (2018) New York (1999)

‘Paid for by Suozzi for Congress’

37 Insider Scoop and Snippets

Sushant lookalike Akshay first off the blocks post lockdown in rumored biopic When life is slowly getting back to normal After the sad demise of , amidst the pandemic, when fans couldn’t stop mourning over such a the ilm industry too is great loss, they found a lookalike of the late gearing up to start actor on social media. Tiwari stunned working once again. social media with eerily similar looks, owing to The irst actor to resume which, he gained much popularitySuicide or Murder. and also work post lockdown bagged a ilm. Sachin will now be seen playing is none other than the lead role in a movie titled . It was rumored that the ilm is Sushant’s Bell Bottom biopic; however, the ilmmakers have cleared With the movie the air and said that it is not on the in departed star. The story is based hand, the actor is the irst Bollywood hero to on the struggles of small- towners get back to shooting. All safety measures and coming to the big city to achieve precautions have already been considered such as their dreams. multiple sanitizing stations, temperature checks & The irst-look blood pressure & special wrist watches to track the poster has team’s health. Holiday heroProducer Jacky Bhagnani’s been released preparation is in full swing after receiving a green on the internet. Anushkasignal from the Sharma goes. green on World Nature Conservation Day

On July 28, which is observed as World Nature Conservation Day, actress Anushka Sharma took to her social media account to appeal for the protection and conservation of our surroundings. Always vocal on social issues, the Sui Dhaaga actress uploaded three pictures of her standing and walking amidst some serene and rejuvenating environment. She appealed to the citizens to respect Mother Nature and her resources for a healthy sustainable development. She Bachchan family turns COVID free wrote, “Mother Nature will respect us if we respect her. Often, small steps taken collectively lead to impactful changes. Let’s always remember that Earth is beautiful and we After the should let it be that way.” COVID-19 positive report of father in law and husband Abhishek, and her daughter Aaradhya were also diagnosed with Coronavirus symptoms. All of them were admitted to Nanavati hospital. After receiving treatment and care for a few days, the mother & daughter's report came out to be negative and they were discharged from the hospital on 27th July. Later, Amitabh Bachchan's report also came out to be negative, followed by son Abhishek. Meanwhile the tests of , Navya Naveli and Sweta Bachchan were negative. So, the whole Bachchan family is now COVID free. Insider Scoop and Snippets

Is Bebo expecting? Atrangi Re gets real with shoot on site Amidst the tragic news updates of COVID-19 all over the internet, there is Atrangi Re good news from the Pataudi family. , and Akshay Khan and are Kumar starrer, will resume all set to welcome their second child. Saif shooting from the month of October. Ali Khan made the news oficial by Filmmakers have released a new still of announcing it on social media. He wrote, the ilm featuring the lead characters in “We are very pleased to announce that we it and announcing the shooting regimen are expecting an addition to our family !! from the month of October. Directed by Thank you to all our well wishers for all their love and support." Since then, the Ananad L. Rai, the picture will have sets couple has been receiving warm wishes across Madurai, Delhi and Mumbai with from friends and fans. all the safety measures involved. Amidst the pandemic, this is one of the rare Priyanka-Nick step up for ilms that will be shot in real locations instead of studio sets. Assam relief

Actress Priyanka Chopra and husband Nick Jonas have together contributed to the Assam Flood Relief Fund. The lood has created havoc, claiming around 100 lives. Owing to such a big disaster, people have lost shelters and poverty has risen in the state. Priyanka, who is also the brand ambassador of Assam, urged people to donate in this time of crisis and help the lood victims. She wrote, “While we are all still dealing with the effects of the global pandemic, the Indian state of Assam has been grappling with another major crisis. It has been devastated by loods triggered by heavy monsoon showers affecting the lives of millions. She added, I’m sharing details of a few credible organizations that are doing some good work on the ground in Assam, and Nick and I have made a donation to each. Let us support them so they can continue to help those in need.” ’s upcoming space odyssey Rock On After a super performance in the movie , theSaare Jahaan Se Achha star bags another biopic. Based on the life of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the project is titled . The ilm was initially offered to Aamir Khan and then to SRK, but due to other commitments, they dropped out of the ilm. The ilmmakers then roped in Farhan Akhtar, based on his epic performance in the last biopic he worked in. Wondering about the title? Well, these were the exact words of the late Air Force oficer Rakesh Sharma when the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi asked him how India looked from 39 outer space? Insider Scoop and Snippets

SRK’s plastic act leaves NASEER: OTT WILL REPLACE MOVIE THEATRES fans curious

Naseeruddin Shah feels With the pandemic spreading across the globe, OTT platforms will replace from lifestyle to work routine, everything has theatres in the future. gone topsy-turvy. People are trying to take “I have a fear that this will precautions in their own way and Mumbai happen. When movies being the worst hit, celebs are trying to take started being shown on as much care and precautions as possible. Shah Doordarshan, I thought Rukh Khan, on the other hand, goes a different that the day is not very way and wraps his Mannat in plastic sheets. far when movies are Fans are curious with this gesture and they are going to premiere on wondering about the reason behind it. Some television. It is foolish are saying this is for the safety against Corona to imagine that as now it is also an airborne disease, the movie while others are saying that it is palaces will a seasonal ritual of SRK whereby last forever. One has to live with the possibility that every monsoon, they will one day no longer be there.,” the mansion is draped in plastic sheets to avoid the Kartik Aryan is a real-life romantic monsoonal effects. SRK too, doesn’t spill the beans and leaves The actor who has acted in his fans several romantic comedies, and bewildered. on whom girls go crazy, is Uploading the himself a romantic genre ilm picture of his lover! In a recent interview, the home on social charismatic actor revealed that media, he asks he is a romantic person at heart people to guess and so he enjoys watching love the reason stories. He even stated that he behind it! is an emotional person and cries during any intense director positive act. As per him, he really enjoys romantic ilms and despite infection he would love to do them again in future. WhileBhool Bhulaiyaa 2 on the work front, Kartik will be next seen S.S. Rajamouli, who in created one of the and . blockbusters of the era Baahubali, is now COVID positive. The director took to social media to reveal his COVID status. He tweeted that his family members, including him, developed mild fever and so they decided to get themselves checked. The reports of the entire family turned out to be positive. They have been asked to stayin quarantine and follow all the safety precautions as advised by their doctors. Few days later, in another tweet he wrote, “All of us are feeling better with no symptoms, but are following all precautions and instructions... “Just waiting to develop antibodies so that we can donate our plasma…” Insider Scoop and Snippets

Sanjay Dutt’s first look from KGF is jaw-dropping Hrithik’s special message for the

Sanjay Dutt, who recently turned 61, 2020 grads! shared a poster of his upcoming ilm on KGF Chapter 2his birthday. The poster revealed the new look of Sanju Baba’s character in Amidst the COVID fear, students have as ‘Adheera.’ With this ilm, been unable to celebrate their Sanjay Dutt will make his debut in Super 30once-in-a-lifetime graduation Kannada ilms. Fans are going crazy over ceremony. So, to cheer them up, the his ravishing look and are praising him star shared a beautiful and with their compliments over social inspirational message for the students. media. Fans have even called him the He uploaded a video congratulating the most powerful antagonist of India! Quite 2020 students for their success. Along with the video, he wrote, “My Dear a compliment..isn’t it? Graduating Batch of 2020 stars, Throw your hats high towards the sky for the Star daughter finds going tough horizon is just the beginning of your limit. My Love & congratulations to each one of you for giving your best. Keep shining. Stay curious. Stay a Even as the conversation on student forever. And may your journey in Indian cinema be illed with great teachers every time continues, actress , you search for elder daughter of Kamal answers.” Haasan and , says while the initial opportunity to enter the ilm industry was comparatively easier for her, it has been tougher to survive in the cut-throat business of cinema.

Chocolate boy Virat serves it up for his lady love

Talking about one of the most romantic couples, who lew to the most romantic destination in the world, Italy, to get married, & Anushka Sharma never cease to entertain fans with their daily routine captures during the lockdown. This time, Anushka shared a tempting picture of Chocolate Eclairs prepared by hubby Virat for his lady love! Anushka uploaded the photo with the caption, “getting spoiled with homemade chocolate eclairs by my husband.” 41 Bollywood Insider August 2020

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43 I have always said there might be someone better than me, but I can assure you there can be none more hard-working than me The Privileged One!

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er claim to fame will always be the fact that she is ’s and ’s daughter. With her sister still waiting in the wings, Janhvi seems to be trying to accelerateDhadak her career the best way she can. She has had only one full-ledged movie release – , hence, the anticipation of her next after two long years has everyoneGhost Stories waiting with bated breath to decide her fate. Though she was vastly appreciatedGunjan Saxena – The Kargil Girl in the anthology where she did the segment, her ilm, now holds the key. The ilm will release on Netlix shortly, owing to the pandemic. The excitement is obvious, but amidst the nepotism debate, the star kid releases are expected to take a beating. What does Janhvi feel about the chaos that the industry is experiencing? What is her take on nepotism? And most importantly, is she ready to faceBollywood Insider. comparisons with her mother yet again? She shares her thoughts in a candid Hinterview with

45 The hard work surely paid off All I know is that I because the real Gunjan Saxena is perhaps judging me, but I wasn’t in all praise for Sharan Sharma (the want to act. Movies that frame of mind to understand and director of the ilm) and you! are me; I am respond appropriately. I was taking each day as it came and at the end of movies. I cannot do the day, it was like I survived! *sigh* anything else. And I It is reassuring to hear that, because have tried my level Today when I see their shocked faces, all I know is that I want to act. Movies seeing me smile and being friendly, or are me; I am movies. I cannot do best to not leave basically be myself, I realized their anything else. And I have tried my level any stone unturned confusion.There was a lot of talk about the best to not leave any stone unturned for Gunjan Saxena’s prep you did for Gunjan Saxena; tell for this role; so any appreciation is role; so any me a little about it. But appreciation might not always like oxygen to my lungs. come! In the current scenario, a appreciation is like person needs to be equipped from oxygen to my lungs. within. What do you think are the I have been working on two ilms over essentials for an actor? the past year and I assure you, everything that I could do in the craft of acting I have done for these two ilms. I have givenDhadak my everything, sold Willpower and the strength to keep As we all celebrate the Kargil Diwas, my soul if I may say so, to get the act going on, irrespective of what people the trailer release of Gunjan Saxena correct. When released, I got say, is perhaps the most important was met with a lot of anticipation. mixed reviews. There were some who aspect of an actor’s career. The actual What is your frame of mind like? praised me to the skies and others who thought I was just about alright. However, when I saw I am glad that the trailer has been myself, I saw appreciated. Initially we had wanted to only laws. I release the ilm on Kargil Diwas, but didn’t think I due to the pandemic, the post sounded good; production work has been delayed. We I felt I didn’t will now release the ilm on dance well. I even Independence Day. Since the trailer is felt that I didn’t act the irst impression the audience gets properly; so I decided of the ilm, I was on tenterhooks. I didn’t want to look so But all’s well. unprepared again. Gunjan Saxena was As for the frame of mind I am in, well, obviously physically I am quite a mess. These promotions demanding. I needed are so different from anything that to know the basics of happened in . Not that I lying a plane. To remember very clearly, but this is all recreate something as new. historic as Gunjan’s Given the circumstances in which role in the Kargil War, you promoted Dhadak, right after I needed to look the demise of your mother Sridevi, conident in aviation it’s understandable that you don’t skills. It took me a remember much of it… while, but it is an experience I will never forget. I did extensive meetings with Gunjan; I It is all a haze. A lot of people who I might have asked her met during that time look at me today anything and everything like I am a whole new person. The fact about her life. But this sort is that we were all grieving; all those of prep I will do for each and days I didn’t know what to do or even every ilm of mine. I want to be who I was, anymore. A lot of people equipped with everything I thought that I was very distant and might need for a role. pretty snobbish. I didn’t realize that it was the irst time these people were interacting with me; they were deinition of being a public igure is between me and my characters is what what I hope to do in theGunjan Saxena latter half of that you are loved publicly and even will make my acting relatable to the this disastrous year.IRooh Afza was to have three hated publicly. Sometimes the audience. I don’t want to give that up releases thisRoohi Afzana year, post comments that come can really shake for anything. there was to be which is you up. I am certain a regular girl Exposing yourself to your character now called where I play doesn’t have to read such stuff about is a lot different than being a double role. It is a horror comedy, a herself. So yes, you have to be defenseless in front of criticisms… genre still new to Bollywood. Working thick-skinned.Have you developed a thick skin, yet? with the likes of and has been so exciting, but it is all put on holdDostana sequel. due to Covid-19. True, but you cannot be selectively We have just resumed working on it. sensitive. You are either sensitive or Perhaps about certain things, but The same goes for you are not. That is why I would much You missed mentioning the Dharma maybe I have just become better at extravaganza Takht... pretending that it doesn’t affect me. I rather stay the same vulnerable person I am, so I can be honest to my am working more on trying to feign craft. ignorance about it rather than be As much as you work on your craft, Mughal-e-Azam thick-skinned. The ironic thing about you are also always in the gym…. WhenUmrao Jaan I was told that I will be in it, I me is that it was my sensitivity that started seeing and actually worried my mother a lot. She on repeat for days; I just wanted to get their body language right was against the idea of me becoming I don’t miss it. Now, of course, the an actor for the simple reason that she inside of me. However, it is a long way workouts have changed considerably, to the release of this ilm. I am, however, didn’t think I could handle the but I have to work out and see a movie looking forward to shooting for it. comparisons and the criticisms that every day. I cannot do without either. Let’s see how and when that does come to an actor. Some people can be It might seem boring to others, but happen. downright mean and she knew that, People are getting almost that’s what I do through the day; violent now accusing Bollywood of because she started working at a very diction class, dance rehearsals, gym nepotism. In these troubled times, young age. It is not easy to keep your and movies. And believe me, I don’t every star kid is threatened. Do you composure when someone is lashing think I am boring at all, I am just feel worried? out at you and sticking a camera in driven. I want to be my best, do my your face at the same time. best and eventually, be the best. The year so far has been exhaustingly unpredictable; what Coming from a protected family like are you looking forward to? I know I am privileged, but I am not mine, my parents thought that I will ungrateful. I know the weight of the break under pressure. But I have legacy I carry. I won’t for once take always felt that this sensitivity is my what I have for granted. I have always greatest strength. Yes, I am vulnerable. Yes, it has been unpredictable, but said there might be someone better I feel exposed to the pain of the that’s life. You can never know what’s than me, but I can assure you there characters I play. I live them to some going to happen. I have realized one can be none more hard-working than extent, I believe them, I let what hurts thing; that you cannot control things me. That’s something my mother has them hurt me and so on. I wear those around, but you can watch yourself, imbibed in me, and I won’t be letting47 bruises, because this transparency your moves, your work – that’s exactly that go EVER. Bollywood Insider August 2020

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49 I remember Sushant’s happiness that day, he was ecstatic. He’d call me up to our hotel terrace to show me the stars through his telescope, but I’m personally not as interested in the stars and galaxies. He’d see the twinkling stars, and I’d see his eyes twinkle, that passion was gripping.

Sanjana Sanghi I had a deeper connection with Sushant

Deepali Singh

ne of Sanjana Sanghi’s favourite stories about herself, is how Ocasting director spotted her performing on stage at her school in Delhi and asked her to ‘audition’ there and then. Only 13 then, theRockstar young girl made her debut in the worldHindi Medium of ilms as Mandy inFukrey Returns ’s (2011). Smaller roles in and followed, but it’s her irst lead role opposite in Chhabra’s directorial debut, , that’s brought her into the limelight once again. The Fault in Our StarsThe Indian adaptation of ’s bestselling novel ended up becoming Sushant’s swansong, as the actor died by suicide in June this year. Ever since then, fans have been curious to know more about the leading lady, with whom the actor shared a wonderful working relationship.

Doing promotions without her co-star has been a somewhat strange and sad task for Sanjana,Dil Bechara but like she says, it’s something Sushant would have wanted for her. With streaming now on Disney + Hotstar, the actress walks down memory lane to give us a glimpse of the Bollywood Insiderkind of person Sushant was and also has a special message for the readers of and his fans across the world.

51 I wanted my audiences to first As an actor, there were several ‘learn Bengali’, to be able to improvise see a girl, so full of challenges that Kizie (her character) with my screen parents on set. That brought with her, but that’s what sounds like a simple demand, but as an life, with so much made playing her the biggest honour I adult, learning a new language from love to give. could get and that too in my debut ilm the grammatical root meant months of as a leading actor. She’s a Bengali girl diction training and cultural suffering from a debilitating illness, immersion.How did you break the ice with someone who has learned a lot about Sushant who was the bigger star here? Had you read the book or seen its life far beyond her years. For me, two Hollywood adaptation before you aspects were what we call ‘hard facts’ were approached for Dil Bechara? in our training as theatre actors. I There was never a moment where there wanted that at no point should Kizie’s was any ice to break and that’s been a illness deine her. I’d put a line up in great gift. You meet some people in my room “Make the oxygen pipe Oh absolutely! That damage was done your life, where a project, or chance invisible”. I wanted my audiences to back in 2014 itself when theTFIOS makes you cross paths, but you instantly irst see a girl, so full of life, with so Hollywood adaptation of the ilm know there’s a deeper connection released - I was the teenage much love to give and then a girl who there. Thankfully, the one thing I’ve fanatic, who skipped school to go and has also grown up with an illness that never been is star-struck, even when I watch the ilm and I’ve read the novel made her reality different from a was 13 acting with . any number of times through my regular teenager. I needed to Sushant and I gridlocked at more teens. I consider it a modern classic. understand the emotional and levels than one. Our passion for cinema When I was told I’ve been inalised as psychological impact growing up with was the foremost; however, we also the Indian Hazel Grace Lancaster, it cancer could bring and I spent months had our tryst with academia - him and took me months to be able to absorb with young cancer survivors at The I both are very studious; we’ve both While there is romance, you are that fact! Indian Cancer Society in Mumbai for trained as dancers for a large part of also playing a cancer patient in this the same. our lives and we share a love for food. ilm. For your irst big role, did that Also, we both were in love with the seem like a daunting task? Secondly, I’m half Punjabi, half Gujrati, characters we were playing and the born and brought up in New Delhi. My story we had to tell and that had director needed me to very simply us invested to the maximum. What kind of talks did you share?

“You know there’s a writer named John Berger; he talks about perception?” He’d ask, and I’d say “Of course, Ways of Seeing?” “You know Yuval Noah Harari emphasises how technology is the future” He’d say, and I’d add “Absolutely, 21 lessons for the 21st century is my favourite book”. So, books - whether psychology, sociology, philosophy. It was our irst reading together when my father called me home, saying we’d got a letter telling me I’d become a Gold Medalist at University. I remember Sushant’s happiness that day, he was ecstatic. He’d call me up to our hotel terrace to show me the stars through his telescope, but I’m personally not as interested in the stars and galaxies. He’d see the twinkling stars, and I’d see his eyes twinkle, that passion was Did it feel strange or sad to do the gripping. promotions all alone?

It’s everything that’s strange, sad, gutting, numbing - all these emotions that I don’t wish upon anyone, to go through, especially not any debutant who’s bringing her labor of love to the All I can say is Where does Sanjana go from here? audiences. I wasn’t supposed to be Is there a long wish-list you have, in that, finally, our doing any of this alone, neither terms of roles or directors? Mukesh Sir. I’m only doing it because I labour of love has want him to be smiling proudly every reached you. second as he looks over us. Since the ilm released on an OTT platform, audiences across the Sanjana’s never known where she’s world will be able to watch it. Do going., If you’d have told a 13-year-old Sanjana she’s going to become Mandy you think that’s an advantage? Do you have a message for readers in a small yet pivotal part of Bollywood Insider as well as that a decade after, people remember your’s and Sushant’s fans in the USA? vividly, she’d have laughed at you. If When the pandemic hit early in March you’d have told a 20-year-old Sanjana and showed no signs of slowing down, she’d be the leading lady in Disney’s we knew theatres are going to remain Indian Adaptation of TFIOS, she’d To all our Indian and international fans shut for a long time. All of us in the have laughed at you. All I know where alike, all I can say is that, inally, our team have been absolutely delighted I’m going is along a path of honest and labour of love has reached you. Kizie since day 1, when we were told it’ll be earnest work. I dream of a and Manny are no more mine to be reaching millions of people, across relationship with my audiences, possessive about, they now belong to borders. For me as an artist, it’s about where they know me and love me for every single member of the audience my art reaching people. Art is meant exactly who I am, where they see who have given them a new life with to save lives, give hope, give you an themselves in me - a child from the love they have already showered. escape. In this world hit by the nowhere just following dreams she I’d urge them to turn any grief they pandemic, we need it more than ever never even dreamt, and being able to have felt after Sushant left us, to before. give back a lot more, since I’ve been convert that into hope and a working in the ield of education with celebration of his life, his work, our underprivileged children for over 7 ilm, and our dream. It’s the least we53 years now. can do. Bollywood Insider August 2020

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55 My attention is completely on Aarya because it represents “ “ everything that the actor in me wants to be known for “Depression“ is real!

Shubarna Mukerji Shu

t has been 10 years since we saw SushmitaAarya Sen in a Hindi ilm. The quiet decade gave way to a whirlwind Iwith , the actress’ irst release in a decade, one that marks her OTT debut. The reviews are rave, the applause is deafening,Biwi No 1, Aankhen, Main but did she believe Hoon Nait will be like this? The actress who gave us ilms like andNirbaak more, was diagnosed with Addison’s disease in 2014, a year before her last ilm (Bengali) released. Since then, the actress has admitted that facing the camera was a light at the end of a tunnel she only hoped to see, but didn’t know if she ever would. For someone who is so vocal about her problems, so clear about her feelings, it can only make for a grand success Bollywood Insider story. So, let’s have Sushmita Sen take over the conversation. A exclusive…

57 When I went back “to the sets of Aarya I actually felt like a newcomer. I was anxious, excited and raring to go. “

When I saw the promo of Aarya, I was thrilled. I wanted that Sushmita character, move to the next one, etc. It Sen experience all over again, and was as if I was doing theatre. At every Positivity, and that has to come from frankly I had wondered if I would moment of the scene, irrespective of within. Just recently a fan asked me see it! where the camera is, you have to give how did I survive nepotism. My answer your 100 per cent. Emotionally, it was to him was simple; I focused my so dificult to reset at cut that we would attention on my audience. When you play Hindi ilms songs and dance at the just concentrate on doing your work Me too (Laughs). Believe me, when I end of the day, so that we just snap out and not bother about the disturbances went back to the sets, I actually felt like of it. There was too much intensity, but around you, you will manage just ine. a newcomer. I was anxious, excited and given a choice, I wouldn’t ever want to raring to go. I woke up in the mornings break the continuity of emotions again. About depression, I will say the same. with this purpose and excitement I would want to shoot like this forever. If you choose to focus on life, on which I hadn’t felt for a long time. I I can sense your excitement of positivity, there can be nothing to realized I could be happy without coming back to doing what you do bring you down. This is coming from working, but I glow when I am best, just listening to you… someone who has suffered from it. I The last decade that you have been working! was on steroids for 2 years, as a away, has been a renaissance of result of which my mental make-up sorts. Everything has changed about took a beating. I had to take further ilmmaking, scripts included. Was it There was a time, I could only hope I medications to cope with my like a cultural shock returning to will be back to doing normal things. depression. This is all real, this face the camera? I don’t want to speak about happens; I know because it happened with you, but let’s just say it is not easy to me. I have been so grateful because to suddenly get ill.Aarya So ill that you are I was surrounded by wonderful people not certain if you can do things you are who spoke to me and let me speak to Cultural shock is nicely put! See, for used to doing. So reinstated my them as much as I needed it. me, facing the camera was not a belief in me. Believe me, nothing gets challenge. You could say it has always At the same time, your debut comes more exciting. Today, I speak about mental health been my favorite thing to do. The only when the industry is almost awareness on each and every platform, problem was, on a set, collapsing under words like because it is essential. You don’t know you cannot see the camera. I was so nepotism, depression and more… who will need to hear it. It happens glad we had workshops before we got what are your thoughts about the with those of us who insist on being onto the actual sets. It was there that I same? learnt that there will be no cut, we strong, not realizing that asking for would have to keep ilming the entire help doesn’t make anyone weak, and scene at one go. I was so surprised most importantly, being weak is alright. when I was told that we will have to You know for both the terms you used, If your immediate acquaintances keep moving our mark, talk to one I have an answer that’s almost similar. don’t understand what’s happening, don’t know how to react, that’s ok – the world at large does.

When you speak it out, write about it, you will eventually start hearing voices that resonate with answers. I say this from experience, love. It is not easy, but it is possible. You need to just love yourselfYou haven’t had things easy. Given enough to ight it. the life you have lived and the experiences you’ve had, what truly makes you happy now?

It’s very simple... happiness is not something that I put conditions on. I have realized more and more in the last six years that have gone by — with all the upheavals in my life — that happiness is condition-less. You have to choose it against all odds and you have to choose it even if it means looking at yourself sometimes in the mirror and faking a smile when you don’t feel like it at all. Smiling changes something… there’s a chemical change in your body and you learn to appreciate the fact that you may have this issue, that issue, inancial problems, relationship-related ups and downs, but that you are alive. That, for me, is reason enough to be happy.

A lot of us wait for that applause and approval, a lot of us want that applause to survive and to grow…. I am human too… I love somebody saying, ‘Hey, well done! We are so proud of you!’ I feel happy hearing it. But my existence, happiness and my peace are not dependent on it. This I have learnt not while staying away from the industry or from acting… I learnt it very early only reason that there is a strength that releases, and then I will move on to the on in my life. All it takes now is to permeates itself is because there is next step. constantly practice it… because on weakness, there is pain. There is the days I forget it, I become a sob tremendous pain…. There is a dark side (Laughs) I am super excited! Finally, I story instantly, I am a mess…. So, I have that allows the light to come through. have got the appetizer, entree, main to gather myself and say, ‘No, no, We are all made of everything. I have and dessert on my menu, with options! It’s tough to imagine you being a no, no!’ darkAre we now going to see much more days too. (Laughs again) I have been waiting for a time like this when I would have so mess… of you on screen? Because we do want to see much more of you… many options and be able to tell myself, ‘I don’t know which one to go with!’ So much fabulous content… there are two in the pipeline, theyAarya are still in Human beings, no matter how tough, Well, it’s exciting. From getting some the draft stages. But for now, my are vulnerable. The idea that one is attention is completely on because tough and strong is fantastic, that’s really rubbish scripts, I inally have some amazing stuff coming my way. I it represents everything that the actor the aspect of me that the world is have a ilm and another series. in me wants to be known for. And I hope consuming. Can I be tough and strong? Everything is on hold while the drafts that when I move to the next one, you Sure, I can. There is no denying that. are gettingAarya ready. I like to give my will tell me, ‘Oh my god, completely But is that the only ‘me’? Is that all I best to what I’m doing now and I want different… this is a new journey for59 am made of? No, not true at all. The to see all the way through, till it you’. I hope that happens. Bollywood Insider August 2020

Today we are living freely because many sacriced their lives for the sake of our country. Salute to the great souls! Happy Independence Day Bollywood Insider August 2020

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61 Dhaval Roy

Sidelined actors show Twenty years ago, ’s soap operas gave a new lease of life to many actors who had the spark, but didn’t their prowess on OTT shine bright on the silver screen. , Amarr Upadhyay, Apoorva Agnihotri, Nakuul Mehta and Iqbal Khan A look at actors who’ve had a dull beginning among many others entered the in Bollywood, or are rarely seen on screen, industry with ilms, but became superstars on television — arguably but had an impressive debut on the digital more popular than many of their platform this year. contemporaries in Bollywood. Two decades later, history is repeating with OTT platforms. In recent times, the audiences have been astonished by web series or movies featuring actors Abhishek Bachchan who either didn’t get a good kick-start Breathe: Into the in B-Town, or are sparingly seen on Shadows cinema screens these days. Abhishek ManmarziyanBachchan’s last outing was in After a lackluster 32018. Before debut – that, he had in 2017 – Tripti in MajnuDimri was seen in 2016 and just romantic drama couple-odd , which releases in the also izzled out at past few years. With his performance in web debut,

the box ofice. The light, however, shined Bulbbul on Breathe: Into the Shadows the actress with Anushka Sharma’s Netlix lick . psychological thriller , AB has Tripti has given a stellar performance in the supernatural taken the audiences’ breath away. The actor plays a period fantasy drama as a young Bengali woman,thakur Anvita psychiatrist who will go to any length to get his abducted Dutt, in the late 19th Century. Her transformation from an daughter back. In the show, he changes personalities in a innocent young lady to a formidable Laila Majnu and steely split second and is convincing in every scene. The sequel to relects excellently in her look as well as acting. Also 2018’s R. Madhavan-starrer ended with a hint that there joining her in the movie was her co-star might be a third season too. Till then, fans will wait with Avinash Tiwary. Tripti stood the might of Rahul Bose and bated breath! Parambrata Chatterjee in her maiden OTT movie. Saiyami Kher Class of 83 Breathe: Into the Shadows and Choked

The curly-haired girl debuted in Hindi ilms opposite Mirzya Harshvardhan Kapoor in Like Abhishek Bachchan, four years ago. Bobby Deol barely makes She hasn’t done big-screen appearances these another days. He had a gap of four Bollywood years in his ilmography movie yet, from 2013 toPoster 2017 though, sheMauli Boys and only four releasesRace 3, had a Marathi Yamla Pagla since then— project, . Deewana: Phir Se , This year, it’s been just OTT releases for her and all her Class of 83 and three charactersSpecial Ops have been different . In his digital debut, he will be seen in Shah from each other. She played an undercover agent in the Rukh Khan’s ilm, , which is based on Hussain series , a middle-class Choked working woman saddled Zaidi’s book by the same name. Bobby has donned the with running the household and supporting aBreathe no-good khaki for his role of an upright policeman-turned-police husband in the web ilm and a sex worker instructor, Singh. earning to pay for her brother’s education in . The actress has won accolades for all her projects. Sushmita Sen Lara Aarya Hundred

It’s been a long decade since Sushmita Sen last did a BollywoodDulha Mil Gayaproject—her No last releasesProblem were and One seldom sees the in 2010. In former on June thisAarya year, Sush screenWelcome to these days.New The acted in crime York last time one did, she drama , which acted in is the Penozaremake of a (2018), a ilm Dutch and Spanish that was not only show . In the a commercial titular role, the disaster, but also actress plays a Beecham House severely panned by stunning mother of critics. Last year, she was seen in a TV show, British three who has to Hundred historical drama , set in 1795, and this year reluctantly take over the she made her web debut with action comedy-drama reins of a dodgy family on Disney-Hotstar. Lara played a cop in the series business to protect her family. that also starred Marathi actress Rinku Rajguru. Lara Sush has played her part with mostly got positive reviews as ACP Saumya Shukla, a great aplomb and looks immaculate. She has won a lot of hard-working cop trying to prove herself even as she is praise for the role of a classy mum who gets her hands dirty surrounded by insecure and dismissive men, be it her as a drug baroness and has hit it out of the park in both63 the husband or her boss. personalities. Social Media abuzz withThe month of controversies July was jammed with one controversy after another and social media was the hotspot for it all

Dhaval Roy All hell seems to have broken loose in Bollywood Kangana’s grading recently and not a day has passed when social media didn’t lose its collective cool for some system returns to bite her reason or the other. From Sushant Singh Rajput’s tragic demise that opened up the Pandora’s Box of nepotism, lobbying and bullying in filmdom to and Swara Akshay Kumar being accused of flouting Bhasker are B-grade actresses lockdown rules amidst COVID-19, here’s all the and needy outsiders trying to sensational stuff. suck up to KaranManmarziyan Johar, accordingVeere Di Wedding to . The and Pulling the plug on actresses didn’t take this vitriolicQueen remark lying low and took a dig at the Koffee with Karan? star for the ‘grading system’. Later, an old video resurfaced in which Kangana seems to be defending star kids and likening their privilege to the quota system in education that she has beneited from, too. New day, new surprise as far as Kangs is concerned!

As if all the hatred towards Karan received. First meant to Johar for being the lag-bearer of be shifted to another nepotism and movie maia wasn’t channel, the relentless enough, his reputation seemsoffee with to aggression against Karanhave been dealt another blow. KJo may lead to the His controversial show, K show being discontinued , is supposedly going off-air altogether. permanently due to the lak it has Sushant’s girlfriend faces flak for seeking CBI inquiry

Balki’s backing for Ranbir, Alia doesn’t go down well

As much as millions of people love Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, when R. Balki said, “I’d ask one simple question: Find me a better actor than Alia (Bhatt) or A month after Sushant allegedly died by suicide, Rhea Ranbir Chakraborty took to social (Kapoor), media to admit that she was his and we’ll argue,” girlfriend and requested Home manyShubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan celebrities Minister Amit Shah for a CBI wereBulbbul up in arms against him. Actors Maanvi Gagroo inquiry into his death. However, ( ) and Avinash Tiwary this did not go down well with SSR’s ( ) along with ilmmakers and Onir fans and they targeted her for staying among others asked Balki to mum for so long and politicizing the look beyond the same circle matter. Harrowed by rape and death of A-list star kids and he threats, she lodged a complaint against might ind talent in two Instagram users who were later abundance. booked under IPC’s section 507 Akshay flies (criminal intimidation), 509 (insulting the modesty of a woman) and section into trouble 67 of the IT Act (publishing or transmitting obscene material in in Nashik electronic form).

When Akshay Kumar posted images into the matter and asked why Nashik city of himself at the helipad in Nashik’s police provided AK protection. The actor temple town Trimbakeshwar, little is said to have gone there to scout land did he know it would cause such an for starting a martialPadman arts and uproar. People raised questions meditation institute. His team then about authorities permitting him to stated that the actor went ly amidst COVID-19. there to meet one Dr. Ashraf and Food and Civil Supplies minister had all the necessary permission, Chhagan Bhujbal ordered a probe after which the probe was called off. 65 Bollywood Insider August 2020 Indian MART

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