Punjabi Flavours | Vipul Amrutlal Shah on the challenges of shooting in Punjab for Namaste England
After treating the audience with the romantic comedy - Namastey London [starring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif], film maker and producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah is now ready with his next - Namaste England, which stars Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra. The Gujarati director is well known for the unique ‘Punjabi' flavour in his movies. Interestingly, films like Namaste London, London Dreams, Commando among others have been extensively shot in Punjab.
Taking forward the same tradition and franchise, Namaste England is a love story that spans across the landscapes of India and Europe, starting from Punjab, moving to Ludhiana, Amritsar, Dhaka and all the way to Paris and finally - London. The film promises to be a young and refreshing story that traces the journey of two individuals - Jasmeet and Param (played by Chopra and Kapoor).
Talking about his experience of shooting in Punjab again, the director shares, “This time, shooting for Namaste England was very challenging. I have shot for some of my previous films there, but this time, my aim was to showcase Punjab in a very different way. I somehow wanted to show Punjab as the most beautiful and conducive place for a love story to naturally happen.” For this, the director wanted to create a poetic world, where the girl and guy eventually fall in love. He quips, “The production team has done a wonderful job in making every location of Punjab look really good in the movie. Anyone would end up falling in love, in that set up. We have shot in and around more than 100 locations in Punjab. It took us almost a month to scout all the locations.” He further added that there were times when the cast and crew would travel 3-4 hours at a stretch, just to film a particular shot at that location.
The trailer has already given us a glimpse of Param and Jasmeet’s journey. Some of the songs are already creating waves, ranging from the soothing ‘Tere Liye’ to the peppy ‘Bhare Bazaar’ and the recently launched groovy number - ‘Proper Patola’. With the film scheduled to release next week, it would be interesting to see how the audience responds to this entertaining love story.
Presented by Jayantilal Gada (pen) & Reliance Entertainment present in Association with BlockBuster Movie Entertainers, Namaste England is all set to hit the screens this Dussehra - October 19, 2018.
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The trick was to make him look tough, yet very cool | Saif Ali Khan on turning Shakun Kothari for Baazaar
After winning accolades for his first-ever web series - Sacred Games, actor Saif Ali Khan is now gearing up for his upcoming film release Baazaar, helmed by debutant Gauravv K Chawla. Khan, who is known to have rendered a variety of characters with different shades throughout his career, will now be seen playing a shrewd Gujarati businessman - Shakun Kothari, in the film. According to the actor, essaying this role was both challenging and complex. As a personality, Shakun Kothari is a sharp, astute and money-minded merchant, who knows his tricks to extract profit out of every business he undertakes.
Khan went on records to talk about the preparations he had to undergo before essaying his on-screen character in the film. Not only reading and research, but he categorically chose to get a first-hand experience of the share market, before starting off with his schedule.
Talking about the experience, Khan said, “I have always had a cursory knowledge of the market. Speaking to friends and reading books by people like Warren Buffet have all been very interesting. To research for this specific part, I drew on many personal equations and people I know in Mumbai. The Gujarati businessman is a definite type. The trick was to make him scary, tough and very cool. The accent also had to work, without making it caricaturish.”
The trailer of Baazaar received a good response, and has already created curiosity among cinema enthusiasts. The film also stars Radhika Apte, Chitrangda Singh, and debutant Rohan Mehra. Presented by Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, in association with KYTA Productions, B4U Motion Pictures and Emmay Entertainment, Baazaar is scheduled to release on October 26.
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Salman Khan to launch a Fitness Equipment Range
Actor Salman Khan, who has already been managing his own clothing, jewellery, and E-cycle brands under the Being Human umbrella, is all set to launch an all new line. And guess what? It will be a Gym Equipment range! Well, keeping in mind the fact that Khan's passion for fitness is quite well known, and the man has been known to pass on this passion among the Gen-next in Bollywood; the range will be something to watch out for.
It is confirmed that Khan has acquired 100% manufacturing rights of India's largest fitness equipment company - Jerai Fitness. The company has been in existence for over 25 years, and is known to supply equipments to around 100 gyms every month, across the country. The new venture will aim to have a wide reach and create awareness around fitness, along with educating people about the importance of being fit and healthy.
Khan envisions to make fitness affordable to every Indian with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, which is Made in India. He aims to reach every village, town and city in India. During the process, the actor plans to help create job opportunities for fitness entrepreneurs and sportspersons in the country.
Taking the Fit India movement further, this joint venture will be launching the New Fitness Equipment Brand during the IHFF Health and Fitness Expo at NSE Grounds, Mumbai next week!
Emraan Hashmi incorporates anti-sexual harassment clause in his company contracts
In the wake of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movement, actor Emraan Hashmi has now decided to include a clause incorporating the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace act in his employee and crew contracts (Prevention, Prohibition & Redressal) to safeguard women at their workplaces and forewarn men to not cross the line. Hashmi took to his official social media account to confirm this news, and released a statement regarding this development.
After multiple conversations with his lawyers and from his own experiences of discussing agreements with production houses through the course of his career, the actor took the decision to add a sexual harassment clause to his contracts, along with other necessary clauses, concerning confidentiality and termination.
Hashmi’s company - Emraan Hashmi Films was launched recently. The actor, who turns producer with the maiden venture - Cheat India [scheduled to release in 2019] stated, “Such clauses are already in contracts in several industries, including MNCs. No film production company has enforced it so far, but with the #MeToo movement that started a decade ago, picking up steam in the West last year and inching towards India, with someone being outed almost every hour on the social media, such clauses have become imperative. In my company at least, it will include both male and female cast and crew members.”
The actor and producer believes that having a universal moral code on a film set is the need of the hour. He quips, “In the given circumstances, having a universal moral code on the film set, dictated by the government’s guidelines, is the need of the hour. This will safeguard the interests of women and men will be forewarned so they don’t cross the line.”
Looking at the situation from a fair perspective, Hashmi further added that if there he added that while there are devious men, there are also devious women who might take this opportunity to settle scores. The actor said, “While it’s only right that the law favours a woman and protects her, there is need for some correction or revision, because with men could also be vulnerable."
He adds, ”In this scenario, the movement is a great start. It's our moral responsibility to protect women, who have been at the receiving end for way too long. But while most of the voices are speaking the truth, along with devious men, there are devious women with agendas too, who can use it against a man who has ticked them off in the past.”
Confirmed! Deepika Padukone to turn producer and act in Meghna Gulzar's next
After playing the titular role in one of 2018's biggest hits, the period drama - Padmaavat, it is now confirmed that Deepika Padukone will now collaborate with film maker Meghna Gulzar. This would be for a film based on acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal. This film, which is yet untitled, will not just have Padukone acting in it, but she will also be producing the film. The actress decided to make this her debut production venture, since she felt very strongly about the film.
Padukone shares, "When I heard the story, I was deeply moved. It is a story not just of gross violence, but of strength, courage, hope and victory.It has had such a massive impact on me, that I personally and creatively needed to go beyond and hence, the decision to turn producer too." Speaking about the subject of the film, Meghna Gulzar said, "In spite of regulation on the sale of acid and changes in legislation regarding acid attacks, both of which are consequences of the acid attack case of Laxmi and her PIL - the ground reality is still very grim. Acid violence is a very prevalent danger even today. Medical treatment, compensation, rehabilitation and inclusion of Acid attack survivors are still very real challenges." Further she stated that by using Laxmi’s story as a lens, the team is attempting to explore these aspects and consequences of Acid violence in our society. "This is what makes this story relevant and one that must be told. Because if anything, awareness is the first step towards change," she quipped.
Touting Deepika as the best choice for the role, Meghna says, "It is both an emotionally and physically challenging role to play. I was instinctively convinced that Deepika can do justice to the character and the story. Also, her physicality matched what I had imagined for the character of Laxmi. I am grateful and feel extremely encouraged that Deepika was so spontaneous in her decision to do this film. Also, when you take a face as beautiful as hers, and portray it as an Acid survivor, the magnitude of the violence and damage is that much more resounding."
It is a story not just of gross violence, but of strength, courage, hope and victory.It has had such a massive impact on me, that I personally and creatively needed to go beyond and hence, the decision to turn producer too
Looking forward to the journey with Meghna, Padukone says, "I have been greatly impacted by Meghna's work and beyond thrilled to be collaborating with her.We now look forward to commencing our journey on this film."
Laxmi, who comes from a humble, unprivileged background, was 15 when the attack occurred, which was at a New Delhi bus stop in 2005. Her assailant was a man twice her age, known to her family and an unlikely suitor whose advances Laxmi had clearly declined. Through Laxmi’s story, the film makes an attempt to understand the on-ground consequences of surviving an acid attack in India, the medico-legal-social state of affairs that transpire after the acid has been hurled and the face is irreparably burnt. While the film showcases her journey in the time after her attack spanning 10 years, a significant part of the story is the game-changing PIL in the Supreme Court which inspired the amendment on acid laws in 2013. With various narratives intertwined, the film promises to be a gritty investigative piece, interspersed with a compelling courtroom drama. If the story is to be summed up in one line, then it is a story of the real triumph of human spirit.
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Loveyatri | Film Review
"Pyaar ek sim card ki tarah hota hain. Mehanga ya sasta mobile kahan dekhta hain." This dialogue should pretty much set the tone for everything that one can expect from film maker Abhiraj Minawala's Loveyatri. Right from the opening scene, the makers make it clear - expect colours, music, mushy moments of 'love at first sight' and yes, Garba! Lots of it. The film marks Aayush Sharma and Warina Hussain's debut, while Minawala makes his feature film debut as a director. But, does it live up to all the expectations? Read on to find out!
The premises is pretty straight forward, and the trailer should give you enough insight. Sushrut's (Aayush Sharma) only aim in life is to have a Garba academy of his own. Susu (that nickname, though) is well known for his Garba skills, with kids and teens thronging his place for lessons everyday. Obviously, his parents aren't too happy with the boy's vision. But, he finds support in his 'Mama' (Ram Kapoor) - a 'Gujarati' saree shop owner, who doubles as a Garba singer. Very soon, it's that time of the year, when festive fervour in Gujarat is at it's best - Navratri, and the boys set out to find the 'love' of their life. Enter Michelle (Warina Hussain), 'jisse dekhti hi Sushrat ke sar pe barsaat girne lagti hai'. Of course, our hero has fallen head over heels in love (quite a romantic moment indeed), and thus begins their journey of love. So, our heroine is a scholar, who scores well and gets through B-school, with an entire career plan chalked out. However, an important point to note is that the girl is based in London, and her father is quite the ambitious businessman, who hasn't even spared his daughter's name in the name of 'westernisation' (he turns Manisha to Michelle). Will our 'Love Yatris' survive this journey, especially with her father playing a spoilsport? Can Sushrut and Michelle ultimately unite to do the 'Chogada' on the streets of a foreign land? You will have to watch the film to find out.
The story felt a bit weak and teeny bit predictable at most times. It almost got to a point where one could make out what follows next. The screenplay was too haphazard. Well, the dialogues were quite interesting. Don't know if they can qualify as 'massy' or 'entertaining', but personally, I thought they were laced with a decent touch of humour and emotions. In fact, if you are a Bollywood buff like me, chances are that some of them might make you smile or even laugh. Yes, that's the level of filmy-ness! Imagine a serious situation at a club, where the Mama has a chat with Sushrat about his troubled love life. That's when 'Mama' actually goes, "Hum logon ne pyaar bhi karna filmon se sikha hain." Well said, Mamaji! Very well indeed (not). Do not attempt these lines for real [unless the aim is to be forever alone]. Chances are that you may never end up finding love. Ever.
Well shot Garba sequences and romantic moments keep you entertained during the first half. Although the film is well under 2 hours, the second half feels a tad bit stretched. So yes, the pre-interval part has an edge. Loveyatri's biggest highlight is the wonderful music, which has the perfect variety and range. From the foot tapping Dholida to soulful Tera Hua and upbeat Akh Lad Jave; the soundtrack is simply brilliant. In fact, it won't be wrong to say that music is an integral hero of Loveyatri. Sanchit Balhara's BG score is decent. Ditto the cinematography by Jishnu Bhattacharjee, that brings up some vibrant sequences that capture the essence of Navratri in Gujarat very well. With the festival up in a few days, it will actually force you to book a trip to Ahmedabad right away. Another special mention would be the costumes - designed by Manish Malhotra, Alvira Agnihotri and Ashley Rebello. While the duo dance the night away, it would be hard to miss the intricate designs and detailing that has gone into the making of those gorgeous outfits. Kudos to the costume department for a fine job!
As far as performances are concerned, the ensemble cast is decent. Ronit Roy (Michelle's father) is impressive, but gets very little screen time. Sushrat's friends - called Rocket and Negative (Pratik Gandhi) - perform well as the humorous duo, who stand by their friend (and even back out, knowing he might fail). Ram Kapoor as the 'Love Guru' Mamaji is decent, and gets some of the most 'filmy' dialogues that have been highlighted in the film. Loveyatri marks Aayush Sharma's much hyped debut. The actor does have a decent screen presence, and dances quite well. He aces the Garba choreography quite well, and his footwork, body movements were totally on point. However, one does feel that he has a lot to learn, especially during the emotional sequences. Warina looks beautiful, especially during the Garba sequences in Gujarat. Even her efforts at performing the choreography is decent. But, it's hard to connect with her expressions and performance. There are some really beautiful moments that strike out, especially during the first half. However, being a romantic film, their chemistry could have been a lot more stronger!
At it's core, the film becomes a victim of a really weak screenplay and story. But, that's not to take away from the elements that genuinely strike out. The music keeps you going and will even go to the extent of making you dance while watching the film (I even did a step or two while being seated. Such skills, I tell you). The film will make you fall in love with the vibrancy of festivals in India and further, push you to visit Gujarat at least once during Navratri. However, I really wish the lead pair's romantic journey could have established a stronger connect. Nevertheless, Loveyatri is an average attempt, especially with some decent technical aspects and a well paced first half. Oh, and my takeaway from the film? I've got two! One - don't eat ketchup with pizza. You might just end up losing the one you love, and Two - Pyaar ek sim card ki tarah hota hai. Chalo, Barabar Samajya Tame?
Verdict: Watch it for the vibrant sequences and costumes, brilliant soundtrack, and perhaps, dialogues that scream - Oh, so filmy! Let the magic of Garba and Love take over, right before Navratri.
☆☆☆
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The Dancebee
Rani Mukerji's Hichki to release in Taiwan
Rani Mukerji’s heart-warming film Hichki, which released in India earlier this year and earned immense acclaim for the actor's incredible act, has now become a worldwide success story. Given the universal appeal of the film, Hichki has been released in several key countries across the world and has opened to a good response. Now, the film is all set to release in Taiwan on November 2, 2018. The movie is being re-titled as ‘My Teacher with Hiccups’ for the Taiwanese audience.
The film’s Taiwanese poster also has a motivating thought written on it. It reads – ‘Never limit yourself, don’t be afraid, even though you have some inborn disability’. So far, Hichki has had an international release in Russia and Kazakhstan, and now, it is expected to wow audiences in Taiwan. The film is also releasing in Hong Kong on November 8 and China on October 12. Mukerji, who earned accolades and even awards for her flawless performance, plays Naina Mathur, a school teacher dealing with an involuntary nervous system disorder - Tourette Syndrome. The film has been widely loved by audiences and critics alike across the world.
Have you seen Hichki? Or are you looking forward to watching it soon in your country?
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Dancebee Rapid Fire with Kareena Kapoor Khan | Exclusive
Pretty, hot & tempting; if you hear these words and the Diva's name doesn't cross your mind, then well, you certainly need a vacation! Well, Bollywood's very own begum Kareena Kapoor Khan turned 38 earlier this week. The actress ringed in her birthday with family and close friends with a super cute get together at home. We all can agree that age is just a number for Bebo, as she continues to give us major fitness and style goals, every single day. As part of her birthday week celebrations, here's an exclusive, fun rapid fire Q&A that we did with the actress. And yes, she has something to say about her little prince Taimur as well!
Of course, we don't have a KJo style hamper thing going on here, but we look forward to continuing this 'Rapid Fire' series in the future, adding a dash of fun Q&A with your favourite stars!
Favourite film that celebrates friendship?
Dil Chahta Hai! It's the perfect example of a 'friendship' film, and I think it was quite ahead of its times. It changed the whole dynamics in Indian cinema.
Your girl squad?
It's all over Instagram. I think everybody knows (laughs)
Does the girl gang have its share of 'kiss and make up' moments?
Well, there is always room for opinions and debate. But, we don't really fight!
If you could have one special power, what would you do with it?
I honestly wish that I could always be around my son [Taimur], and never go anywhere without him.
One personality trait of Saif [Ali Khan] that you really admire.
The list would be endless, other wise I wouldn't have married him (laughs). Our value system is the same, and I think that is the most important thing that you look for in a man.
Something about your equation with Saif, that stands out from the rest!
Probably, the fact that we agree on so many things. Our fundamentals in life are very much aligned.
Are you a Kareena Kapoor Khan fan? What are your thoughts on her journey in Bollywood so far?
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The Dancebee
Batti Gul Meter Chalu | Film Review
Electricity theft, lack of basic infrastructure, facilities and growing turmoil among the common citizens is a pertinent issue. Director Shree Narayan Singh, whose last film - Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, discussed poor sanitation and lack of hygienic facilities, is back with yet another tale that presents a hard hitting reality. Singh's latest offering - Batti Gul Meter Chalu, is a relevant film which highlights the issue of electricity frauds and scams, without being too preachy or dull.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Uttarakhand, the film traces the journey of three best friends - Susheel K Pant [Shahid Kapoor], Sundar Tripathi [Divyendu] and Lalita Nautiyal [Shraddha Kapoor]. While Sunder turns entrepreneur with his own factory, Susheel loiters around as a 'corrupt' lawyer, while Lalita aspires to be the ultimate 'Lakmé Fashion Week' designer. The three make merry, and have a gala time, just when a strange twist of fate changes their lives forever. Susheel takes it upon himself to change the course of action, and vows to fight for his best friend against all odds. In a bid to create awareness around electricity frauds and thefts, which becomes one of the prime reasons behind Sundar's ultimate fate, Susheel tackles the issue by discussing similar problems with thousands of locals and organising multiple activities. Ultimately, SK fights the case for his friend in a rather impressive court room drama climax. Will he win the case and bring justice for his friend? For that, you will have to watch the film. And, I strongly suggest you do!
Music of this film deserves a mention, as some of the songs have already created massive buzz before the release, especially Dekhte Dekhte and Gold Tamba (wish the former played a little longer in the film, though). It was an absolute delight to watch Shahid dance on the big screen again, almost after a gap of 2 years. Full marks to Ganesh Acharya for the peppy moves, straight from the 90s, in Gold Tamba. The BG score is decent. Anshuman Mahaley's cinematography captures the real beauty and essence of Uttarakhand; making it one of the strong pillars of BGMC. So much, that one is bound to feel like visiting the beautiful state on their next vacation. Siddharth-Garima and Vipul K Rawal's writing is another strength, with the Kumaoni laced dialogues creating a powerful impact. There are scenes where one just cannot go without whistling or at least, clapping to laud the moment. Of course, a huge part of that credit also goes to the performances, but gotta say - the dialogues were simply incredible. They add an essential charm to the characters and their respective personalities.
Performances, especially by the lead cast, are undoubtedly the strongest pillars of this film. Even the ensemble cast, including Farida Jalal, Supriya Pilgaonkar, Atul Srivastava among others, perform well. However, the film belongs to the lead trio, with Shahid Kapoor clearly dominating the scene. As the meek and humble Sundar, Divyendu Sharma makes a mark. His character becomes the crux of the film's plot, and Sharma does complete justice with an emotionally charged act. Shraddha's Nauti aka Lalita is a quirky and feisty young girl, who believes in justice and provides unconditional support to her partner, throughout the struggle. She performs well in certain emotional scenes, and her chemistry with the duo is really interesting. Yami Gautam makes an important appearance as advocate Gulnaar, and does a fine job.
However, the film [especially the second half] belongs to Susheel Kumar Pant aka Shahid Kapoor. He wonderfully displays myriad emotions - ranging from envy to vengeance, love and misery. If there is anyone who believes that one needs a larger than life character to create an impact, then Kapoor's portrayal of SKP is here to prove you wrong. He adds an extraordinary personality to an otherwise simple [add to that - corrupt], yet flamboyant boy next door. Right from the court room sarcasm to friendly humour and the perfect attitude with which he approaches the authorities at SPTL, Kapoor nails it just right. He shines with an impeccable dialogue delivery (the dialect was on point) and the perfect body language, making it difficult for anyone to believe that he is not a Tehri local for real. Of course, the costumes and his over-zealousness helped add a good flavour to the character. One can't help but marvel at Kapoor's monologue during the climax of this film, which is clearly one of the strongest highlights of BGMC. That scene is bound to walk away with maximum cheers! As an avid cinephile, I could clearly witness glimpses of Senior Kapur sir's impeccable act from 'Ek Ruka Hua Faisla' in Shahid, especially during some of the emotional scenes. Kapoor is the soul of this poignant yet entertaining drama, and his performance is simply effortless!!
As a viewer, the film pushes you to step out of your comfort zone and look at the world with the POV [point of view] of a citizen, who hasn't lived with the privilege of having electricity 24x7. The story instantly reminded me of Elephanta Caves, a little away from India's financial capital Mumbai, where the locals got 24x7 electricity connection for the first time ever in 2018, almost 70 years after Independence. Conditions get even more miserable for individuals in small towns, who are forced to study and work in poor light and sometimes, end up suffering losses or consequences too. Now, while the social message of saving electricity and creating awareness around the lack of basic facilities available for a majority of the population in India is one of the prime aspects of this film, Batti Gul Meter Chalu also wonderfully explores other facets of life - that of friendship and unrequited love. Susheel, Sunder and Lalita's equation is beautiful, and their friendship makes you wanna call up your BFF gang right away. It also showcases the other side of love, which remains a rather one sided affair. All this, without being too over-dramatic, which certainly helps maintain a good flow of the film and makes it an entertaining watch. Singh does a good job of putting together this delightful film. A special mention for the distinctive narration, which was rather interesting!
Overall, Batti Gul Meter Chalu is engaging and highly entertaining. It comes with the perfect blend of humour, drama and some really strong, poignant moments, while highlighting an important issue that needs immediate attention. The performances and dialogues prove to be the biggest strength, with Kapoor's act being the star of this show. I am definitely adding an extra star, just for that monologue!
Verdict: Highly recommended for it's exemplary performances (with Shahid Kapoor leading the pack) dialogues and the stunning landscape of Uttarakhand!
☆☆☆☆
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Varun Dhawan - Anushka Sharma turn ambassadors for Skill India
Actors Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma, through their much awaited film ‘Sui Dhaaga - Made in India’, are promoting Indian entrepreneurs and skilled workforces. Especially homegrown artisans, craftspeople and weavers who have been making the country proud across the globe. In their upcoming film which focuses on entrepreneurship, Dhawan plays a tailor named Mauji, while Sharma will be seen as his wife and embroiderer Mamta. Innocent yet ambitious, the film showcases their journey towards making a name for themselves.
What's interesting is that the Sui Dhaaga pair have been signed on to promote and endorse the Skill India Mission, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As the film highlights the untapped potential of India’s talented craftsmen and skilled workers at the grass root level and the challenges, issues faced by them, both Varun and Anushka have partnered with Skill India. The duo will dedicate time to promote India’s skilled talent and their fine work, by engaging with artists from different parts of the country.
Speaking about this association, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, stated, “Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma, through this unique film Sui Dhaaga - Made in India, are bringing to focus the incredible skills and talent of our homegrown artisan and craftsmen community. It is really heartening to see actors like them doing a film that has such a significant social message. India is one of the youngest countries in the world; and it is a matter of great pride for us to see such dedicated and passionate skilled youth with entrepreneurial skills in our country who are bringing name and fame to the nation with their work.”
“I wish this endorsement by both actors encourages and influences the youth to take up skill training and earn a better livelihood for themselves and help us in creating the New India envisioned by Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi,” he further added.
Led by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Skill India aims to standardise vocational training — both new-age and traditional skills —, helps in creation of latest infrastructure, ensures industry partnerships to extend technology support to make the youth more employable and assists in creating opportunities of employment for the youth of our country. This has led to more than 1 crore youth joining the Skill India Mission every year and transforming their lives through better livelihood.
Speaking about the association, Dhawan said, “Prime Minister Modi has displayed incredible vision and genuine foresight in aiming to organise, skill, train and give financial support and backing to our craftsmen, artisans and similar workmen. We are proud to be promoting this campaign that we feel extremely close to, just like our movie Sui Dhaaga that celebrates self-reliance and entrepreneurship’’
Adds Sharma, “Skill India Campaign reflects the government’s determination to include and support the talented skilled force of the country. While making Sui Dhaaga, we came across so many stories of talented, skilled crafts people and artisans who don’t get a fair chance to showcase their talents.”
Bappa Morya Re | Lalbaugcha Raja - From the Pages of History
Think of Lalbaugcha Raja and what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Grandeur? Celebrities? Crowd? Well, Mumbai's very own 'King' had humble beginnings. Ever wondered what the initial idols looked like? Or how the mandal was formed? Read on to know all about one of Mumbai's renowned pandals - Lalbaugcha Raja.
The Mandal - which was then known as the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal (Lalbaug) was set up in 1934 in a simple locality, which was then known as Peru Chawl. The chawl and nearby market was forced to shut in 1932 and the locals - mostly fishermen and vendors, vowed to get a Ganpati if their wish was fulfilled. As their vow was fulfilled, the locals formed a committee and in 1934, the first ever idol was welcomed! The ganpati became famous as the 'Market cha Raja' or 'Market cha Ganpati'. As more and more devotees began queueing up to make a wish or fulfil their vows, Navsacha Ganpati and Lalbaugcha Raja became popular names.
The Ganpati idol of Lalbaugcha Raja has been created and designed by the Kambli family of Mumbai since 1935. Earlier, the idol would change every year as per theme and backdrop. Every year, the Mandal would pick a unique theme, ranging from independence struggle to mythological stories & social issues. According to locals, the mandal played a key role during the freedom struggle. In 1949, they have even had a Mahatma Gandhi inspired idol.
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| All Archive Images - Credit: Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal |
However, post 1990, things changed. The overall set up became much simpler, with just a basic backdrop. The idol was seated on a king style throne. But, the idol features and pose would change every year (till 2007). Some felt it matched the name given by locals, which is - Lalbaug cha Raja (King of Lalbaug). As crowds began to swell, the space required for themes & decorations, also became a major problem (as the pandal lane is narrow, with very little space in and around). Hence, sticking to a standard idol was seen as a good option. Since 2007 (till now), all idols have had the same features and pose. However, since 2015, the latest addition has been a unique throne (prabhaval). Some of the recent ones include Owl in 2016 (Goddess Laxmi's Vahan), and a Kurma Avatar (Turtle) in 2017. However, the idol will not be seated on a throne this year (a breakaway from their two decade long tradition). Instead, virtual reality will depict the beauty of nature and environment.
First Look | A stunning amalgamation of tradition and technology! @LalbaugchaRaja 2018 - Virtual Reality depicts the beauty of nature & environment. The entire set has been designed, based on ‘Nature’ & ‘Wild Life’ as a theme! #GaneshChaturthi #LalbaugChaRaja #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/6BwKkvfFzx— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) September 11, 2018
75th year celebrations (2008) was a grand affair. The event got extensive coverage across various media platforms. For this special occasion, the Mandal invited famous art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai to design the backdrop and decor. Desai's royal touch turned out to be one of the biggest attractions during the festive season that year, with grand elephants (straight off the sets of Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar) attracting massive attention. Since then, Desai has been designing the backdrop for the Mandal every year. Post 2015, he also started designing the throne.
Did you know? In 2011, the Kambli family became the first idol sculptors to patent the Lalbaug cha Raja idol design. As the demand for replicas went up and several other sculptors began copying the idol's style and features, Ratnakar Kambli (who currently heads Kambli arts) applied for a patent, making this the first ever case of patent application for an idol.
Over the years, while themes and idols have changed, one thing remains the same. The mandal, including locals, have always taken a step ahead when it comes to spreading awareness on social issues. Today, while the mandal does not have backdrops based on social activities, they organise events that help several major causes. Some of the prominent causes includes a dialysis centre, regular blood donation drives, computer training institutes with nominal fees, free IAS coaching among others.
No wonder they say - The King's empire is filled with love and support for everyone.
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