A Superstar In Action | Sidharth Malhotra (Interview Part II)
Taking off from the previous part of our exciting chat, here's Part II of our interaction with the Sundar, Susheel and Risky - Sidharth Malhotra. Excerpts from the conversation:
Has there been a conscious effort to experiment with the genres of your films?
Absolutely! Because I feel it's important to change trends of the past. Purane zamane mein actors would do one kind of role or maybe even look the same. But now, the trend is different. And I feel Mr Aamir Khan is the only one who truly does it. So, I am trying to do my version, where I find interesting stories. Also, once your initial fear dies down, while becoming a little more secured with your job, then you start enjoying the work that you do. All the scripts that I have and the films that I have started working are stuff that I love. Be it A Gentleman, Ittefaq or Aiyaary; it's a large variety for an actor and I am working with some great directors.
Looking at the fate of Bollywood films in 2017 so far, as an artist, what do you think went wrong?
I truly feel, from whatever experience I have, that we have a dearth of writers. The ones who only write and don't have multiple tasks to handle or look after. These days, you will mostly find writers who have become directors or a directors who are writers themselves. And I feel writers need to be paid well. They should be employed by agencies, production houses. Here, their main goal should be to create new stories, dialogues, research, work on new ideas among others and give us quality scripts, whether for television, web series or the big screen. Today, the audience is ready to reject anything that is sub standard.
Has there been a conscious effort to experiment with the genres of your films?
Absolutely! Because I feel it's important to change trends of the past. Purane zamane mein actors would do one kind of role or maybe even look the same. But now, the trend is different. And I feel Mr Aamir Khan is the only one who truly does it. So, I am trying to do my version, where I find interesting stories. Also, once your initial fear dies down, while becoming a little more secured with your job, then you start enjoying the work that you do. All the scripts that I have and the films that I have started working are stuff that I love. Be it A Gentleman, Ittefaq or Aiyaary; it's a large variety for an actor and I am working with some great directors.
Looking at the fate of Bollywood films in 2017 so far, as an artist, what do you think went wrong?
I truly feel, from whatever experience I have, that we have a dearth of writers. The ones who only write and don't have multiple tasks to handle or look after. These days, you will mostly find writers who have become directors or a directors who are writers themselves. And I feel writers need to be paid well. They should be employed by agencies, production houses. Here, their main goal should be to create new stories, dialogues, research, work on new ideas among others and give us quality scripts, whether for television, web series or the big screen. Today, the audience is ready to reject anything that is sub standard.
Once your initial fear dies down, while becoming a little more secured with your job, then you start enjoying the work that you do
You have got an interesting line up, with three films - A Gentleman, Ittefaq and Aiyaary, that belong to completely different genres. What's the process like for you while working on such diverse films, especially when there are physical changes involved? Does it ever take a toll?
I think, that's what keeps me going. It's an exciting process. The personality that I am, I would get bored doing ek hi kisam ke role or looking the same in every film. So, I thrive on experiments. If I have to do a film like A Gentleman, I will go in for a new look, with a different hairstyle, some body tattoos and even physically, maybe beefing up a bit. For Ittefaq, I have to be much softer. Again, change the look and physicality. See, if you pull off it nicely, and the audience accepts it once the film is released, it feels really good! For e.g If I have to look back in the past, Ek Villain had me playing an aggressive, intense person. Then, I played a really soft, regular ghar ka ladka in Kapoor & Sons. And the kind of love I got for both these completely different roles was so nice. I am hoping this continues in the future.
You are among the select few successful actors, who has come a long way, with a massive fan following and several good projects in your kitty; all this despite no filmy connection. Does that give you some sense of satisfaction as an artist?
Definitely! Whenever I look back at my journey, it does give me a sense of gratitude and confidence. I have gone through a very odd journey. Those days, I was struggling without a job, shifting houses and today, I have got a film ready for release. I feel, ek kisam ka woh fear nikal jaata hain. Because I started from the bottom, and if by any chance I don't perform well in the future, I will still be miles ahead of what I was when I started off.
Those days, I was struggling without a job, shifting houses and today, I have got a film ready for release
What has been your biggest takeaway from the films that you have done so far?
Oh! Lots (smiles). Just the sheer magnitude of the number of people working on Student of the Year was so amazing. Getting a platform like that and working with Karan Johar, achieving the kind of stardom that we did. We would end up meeting so many people from the industry during promotions, events. While the other two knew most of them, I would just go 'Hello sir' and smile. Then, I moved on to Hasee toh Phasee, which brought me to the pure performance zone. Ek Villain had the challenge of portraying a different personality in the action space. Brothers had its own set of challenges, be it the physicality or matching up to a senior actor. I got to learn a lot from Akshay (Kumar) and we have a great relationship even today. I absolutely love him as a person and co-star. Kapoor & Sons gave me the opportunity to work with some really good artists. Baar Baar Dekho had me ageing through the film, and I took that challenge, even though the film wasn't accepted the way I wanted it to be. And now, there's A Gentleman. So, I am proud of the fact that I haven't repeated myself.
I got to learn a lot from Akshay (Kumar) and we have a great relationship even today. I absolutely love him as a person and co-star
Fan Question
Hey Yasmin. The entire soundtrack of the film is really good. But, Bandook Meri Laila is my favourite, and I really hope the audience likes it too.
You have inspired several fans and fitness enthusiasts with your SidFit series of videos and posts. What's your current fitness routine for Aiyaary like?
During the London schedule, I started working out with a trainer. I began working out with a new technology, which I also have at home. It's called EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation). It's a jacket that you wear and you have to resist electricity, while doing your workout. It's actually comparatively healthier, as you don't hurt your joins while lifting weights. It's just water resistance. So, I was doing that. Not just specifically for Aiyaary, but also my overall fitness. And, I guess it helps, as I look fit (smiles). You know, I am gonna tell him (director) to add a body shot (laughs). Let's see if Neeraj (Pandey) sir agrees (smiles).
Are you excited to watch A Gentleman this weekend? Let us know your thoughts.
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Bappa Morya Re Series | Part I - Lalbaugcha Raja
With less than 24 hours to go for one of the year's biggest festivals, the countdown to Ganesh Utsav has officially begun. In fact, it kickstarted almost a fortnight ago, with multiple 'aagman' events and first look photo sessions. But, the city was waiting with bated breath to catch a glimpse of the king, none other than the renowned - Lalbaugcha Raja (also locally known as the Marketcha Raja). The first look was revealed earlier this week and needless to say, the charming idol left everyone mesmerised.
In it's 84th year, the folks at Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal have created a stunning gold Raj Mahal as the backdrop. It has been designed by art director Nitin Desai, whose impeccable work this year looks royal and attractive. Devotees who were eager to get a sneak peek at the idol's throne (ganesh prabhaval) this year were in for a pleasant surprise, as the King was seen seated on a gorgeous turtle throne. The overall look of the idol (inclusive of throne), created by Santosh Kambli, has been designed on the lines of Lord Vishnu's second avatar - Kurma, who according to the puranas, appeared at the time of crisis in the cosmic equilibrium.
This year, the mandal was also in the news for getting an insurance cover of Rs 51 crore, which includes not just the idol and ornaments, but also their volunteers, mandap and third-party liabilities among others. For DTH and live coverage on mobile, the mandal has joined hands with Shemaroo, continuing their 6-7 year association.
For our those of you who aren't aware Lalbaug cha Raja has been well known as the 'Navsacha raja'. Especially among those who make a vow and come back the following year to fulfil their 'Navas'. These devotees join the 'Navsachi Rang' (queue for devotees with a vow). Every year, lakhs of devotees stand for more than 20 hours (the number goes up to almost 30 hours during the last 2-3 days) and are the only ones (apart from VVIP dignitaries) who get the golden opportunity to rest their head on the Raja's paduka and take his blessings. I have personally had the fortune of being a part of this 'Navas' queue several years back and honestly, was super impressed with the arrangements. For those who can't stand for long hours, there is a 'Mukh Darshan' queue in and around the old Digvijay Mills compound. According to the mandal, they are expected to see a footfall of over 1 - 2 million devotees during the 11 day festival this year. And just like most of you, we can't wait to witness the grandeur of Lalbaugcha Raja. Stay tuned for more updates!
Mandal: Lalbaugcha Raja
Year: 84th
Area: Lalbaug (Mumbai)
How to get there: Nearest Station - Chinchpokli / Currey Road (Central), Lower Parel (Western)
By Road - Stay on Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and take the exit before Lalbaug flyover (do not take the flyover). Drive straight towards Lalbaug market.
Are you planning to visit Lalbaugcha Raja this year? Or have you taken a darshan before? Share your experience below or Join the conversation on
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A Superstar In Action | Sidharth Malhotra (Interview Part I)
Suave, smart, supremely fit and witty; Sidharth Malhotra is the perfect choice for a film that goes by the name - A Gentleman, for the actor is indeed a thorough gentleman. I have seen some glimpses of his courteousness during the promotions of his upcoming film. When we travelled to Mehboob (which he jokingly referred to as his second home during promotions) for our interview, we noticed how the actor would patiently pose for images in between interactions. In fact, it was also nice to see him respectfully stand up, shake hands and greet veteran media persons, photographers. That's a rare sight in the busy world of race, glamour and competition that we live in. But, that's Sidharth Malhotra for you - real, honest and extremely chilled out!
Today, for someone who could easily be India's answer to James Bond, the actor has come a long way since his debut in 2012. Be it gaining weight for his avatar as an MMA wrestler in Brothers or going for a simple, boy next door look in Hasee Toh Phasee; Sidharth is among the league of professional actors who don't shy away from giving their 100 percent to a role. He may have seen his share of ups and downs, but he is all set to conquer the future. In just 5 years, it's remarkable to see the actor make a mark with some diverse performances - ranging from a student to a ruthless gangster, wrestler and even a man who ages through the course of a two hour film. This week, Sidharth is all set to display his acting prowess in a dual avatar, that is a mix of susheel and risky. On a sunny afternoon (a surprise in between the on and off Mumbai rains), we caught up with A Gentleman aka Sidharth Malhotra. The actor (dressed in a stylish French Connection print shirt and relaxed Gas cargos) was all ears for our questions. Oh, and he was visibly excited for the fan Qs. Excerpts from our sundar, susheel and risky Two Part interaction:
A Gentleman is the first film where you had the challenge of portraying two characters. What was that experience like?
It was an interesting experience. This is not your usual double role film, jahan do bhai hain. Here, the entire film does not revolve around the double role element. Also, if you notice, the film is called 'A Gentleman' and not 'Two Gentleman' or something. That's for a reason (smiles). So, the film has a nice twist.
How would you describe Gaurav and Rishi's respective worlds?
Both the characters come from two completely different worlds. Gaurav is an NRI, who stays in Miami. He has set goals and dreams, someone who wants a 9 to 5 job, a perfect family. He buys a big house for them, gets a big van for the future kids and would also like to cook for his wife. The only thing he doesn't have is - a wife (laughs). On the other side, there is Rishi, who is more aggressive. He is stylish and likes to cruise around on his bike, with a leather jacket on. But inwardly, Rishi is a loner, and isn't too happy with his job. So, both of them have distinct characteristics.
Personally, was there any kind of relatability with either Gaurav or Rishi?
It's extremely difficult to relate, actually. Because Gaurav has some really typical and weird dreams. Honestly, I have never seen anybody who is so obsessed with getting married or settling down. You know, he is the kind of guy who will meet a girl for the first time, take her out and even propose to her on the same day. So, I honestly couldn't relate to that. As for Rishi, he is too aggressive for me. But nonetheless, what I like about the two characters is the fact that they have a good balance of humour and action. So, a lot of humour comes from Gaurav, while Rishi is all about action.
Wasn't the film initially called Reload? What led to the change in title?
That was actually a working title for an action film. During the process, we kept thinking about other options. However, by the last leg of shoot, we realised that since Gaurav (one of the characters played by him) is a very nice guy, we decided to call it - A Gentleman. Gaurav is a thorough gentleman. Later, the 'Risky' part was added for Rishi.
From the promos, one can notice that the action in this film is a breakaway from the kind of stuff you have done in the past, be it in Brothers or Ek Villain.
You know, when it comes to making an action film, things get very difficult. Especially with keeping the budgets in place and ensuring the presentation is different. So, the action in this film is thrilling, with a lot of hand to hand action combat. It's all very real. There is no heavy CGI involved. We kept it real, but still got the same effect and kept it very slick and stylish.
Are you keen on exploring the action genre a little more in the future, especially since a majority of the audience and fans have loved your work in this space?
Personally, I love this (action) genre. I absolutely love the zone where there is a lot of thrill and action involved. I grew up watching action movies, and loved the James Bond series. Sadly, we don't make out and out stylized action films in India anymore. Even the kind of films that Bachchan sir (Amitabh Bachchan) or Dharmendraji used to do in the 70s - 80s. But, I feel fortunate that I came across this film and now that I have enjoyed it so much, I feel consciously, I will try to do a film that does this kind of action, maybe once in every two years. And if all goes well, which I am really hoping it does, we might even make this (A Gentleman) an interesting franchise.
Fan Questions
Hey Nick and Utkarsha, I feel Raj & DK are very unique film makers. Especially because of their background. They were engineers in America. And they often call themselves - an audience turned directors. They have always loved Hindi and films from down South. Then, they went on to become directors. They started off with 99, went on to experiment with the zombie space in Go Goa Gone and now, they have worked on A Gentleman. And I feel the uniqueness shows in their work. They don't do anything typical and have a fresh take. Their quirky, humorous writing is the biggest USP. In this film they have brilliantly mixed their quirky style with a dash of commercial entertainment. So, I have enjoyed working with them. A Gentleman pretty much has all the ingredients of a mainstream Hindi film. The right mix of comedy, emotion, drama, action, romance among others and plus, a double role angle for me as well. Hopefully, the audience will enjoy the two hour roller coaster ride.
Aishwarya, I really enjoyed playing Rishi. The character is stylish and has got a heroic side to him. Also, there is a lot of action going on when he appears on screen (smiles).
Dekha, do picturon mein kya hota hain (laughs). Bhabhi se sweetheart, aur yeh hain hindi picture ka kamaal (laughs). So, coming back to your question, Rita. During Brothers, the only time I got a chance to interact with Jacqueline was during promotions. And we hardly any scene together in the film. So, I got to know her really during the film. We shot the film in various locations including Mumbai, Miami, Hong Kong, Goa among others throughout the year. She is a fabulous co-star and doesn't need any ice breaker. She is always happy and doesn't allow the stress or burden of her previous work to get on to her. I have never seen her in a dull mood, and that helps. It's always nice to have someone positive around. I admire the fact that she is a self made person and works really hard.
Was there the 'health' connection too, since both of you are a lot into fitness and experimenting with exercise routines?
Oh yes! She is extremely fit and so, we would often bond over fitness. In fact, we would also bond over a lot of other activities. Like, during our Mumbai schedule, she used to talk a lot about horse-riding. One day, I told her ki meri bhi chutti hain, toh main bhi aa raha hoon. She actually called me up at 5:30 am and we were also joined by a friend. We went to Racecourse (Mahalaxmi) and enjoyed the experience of taking horse-riding lessons.
Part II of this Interview will be out on Wednesday (Aug 23). Stay tuned!
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Exclusive | Countdown to Shri Saibaba Samadhi Centenary Year Celebrations
The countdown to this year's much awaited celebration has officially begun. 2017 - 2018 marks the centenary year of Shri Saibaba's Mahasamadhi, and needless to say, devotees are all set to witness a series of spectacular events and activities in Shirdi. Saibaba of Shirdi took Mahasamadhi on the auspicious occasion of Dussera (according to Hindu calendar) in the year 1918. With the year long Shatabdi Punyatithi Utsav set to kickstart on October 1, Shri Saibaba Santhan Trust (shirdi) has begun preparations for the various activities and events that have been planned throughout the year.
The festivities are expected to kickstart with a special ceremony on October 1, 2017. This would be right after the three day Punyatithi utsav, scheduled from September 28 to 30. The ceremony will be attended by special dignitaries, guests and various devotees from across the globe. The trust has planned a host of grand events, including performances, bhajans, parayan among others. The Sai International Marathon is also scheduled to take place on October 15 (which also coincides with Saibaba's Mahasamadhi date according to Gregorian calendar). This, apart from a host of different activities, that will go on till October 2018.
In an exclusive chat with our editor, Smt Rubal Agarwal, CEO - SSST (Shirdi), discussed some of the key activities planned by the trust. Watch the video to know more:
During an exclusive interaction with us in Mumbai, Smt Rubal Agarwal, CEO - SSST (Shirdi) stated that a Paduka Yatra will be organised, wherein Shri Saibaba's original padukas will be taken to various cities across the country. Around the same time, a pair of silver padukas will be taken on an international yatra, which will greatly benefit devotees across the globe. In addition, Shri Suresh Haware - Chairman - SSST (Shirdi) expressed his pleasure on welcoming national and international marathoners and various other participants during the Sai International Marathon. Mr Haware stated that the celebrations would be one of the biggest Sai movements in the world. The trust has also invited top artists from across the country to perform during the year long celebrations. These performances would be offered as part of 'Sai Seva' by the artists.
Well, needless to say, we can't wait to witness the grand celebrations. Stay tuned for more updates!
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Revisiting - Haqeeqat (1964) | Independence Day Special
"Saans thamti gayi, nabz jamti gayi. Phir bhi badhte kadam ko na rukne diya.
Kat gaye sar hamare to kuch gham nahi. Sar himalay ka humne na jhukne diya..."
It’s been 54 years since these haunting lines were penned by Late Kaifi Azmi. Mohd Rafi’s golden voice, and the perfect composition by Madan Mohan took it a notch higher. Today, decades after the release, the song - Kar Chale Hum Fida, continues to melt a million hearts across the nation. Any patriotic event in the country is incomplete without a rendition of the track (or best, playing the original). And the film that gave us this song is undisputedly one of the best war films to be made in India.
Haqeeqat is one of the first war films to be ever made in India. But, what's surprising is the fact that even after all these years, while we have books, journals, articles and testimonials based on the devastating war, Haqeeqat is the only Hindi film that focuses on the destructive Sino-Indian war of 1962, where more than 1300 army men lost their lives (the only other film being Ratha Thilagam (Tamil), which was set against the backdrop of the 62' war).
Kat gaye sar hamare to kuch gham nahi. Sar himalay ka humne na jhukne diya..."
It’s been 54 years since these haunting lines were penned by Late Kaifi Azmi. Mohd Rafi’s golden voice, and the perfect composition by Madan Mohan took it a notch higher. Today, decades after the release, the song - Kar Chale Hum Fida, continues to melt a million hearts across the nation. Any patriotic event in the country is incomplete without a rendition of the track (or best, playing the original). And the film that gave us this song is undisputedly one of the best war films to be made in India.
Haqeeqat is one of the first war films to be ever made in India. But, what's surprising is the fact that even after all these years, while we have books, journals, articles and testimonials based on the devastating war, Haqeeqat is the only Hindi film that focuses on the destructive Sino-Indian war of 1962, where more than 1300 army men lost their lives (the only other film being Ratha Thilagam (Tamil), which was set against the backdrop of the 62' war).
Starring Balraj Sahni, Dharmendra, Vijay Anand, Priya Rajvansh, Sanjay Khan among others; film maker Chetan Anand’s Haqeeqat is set in the times of Sino-Indian war (1962). With timely government assistance, the film came out two years after the war - i.e 1964. The film is a heroic yet poignant tale set against the backdrop of the catastrophic war, and focuses on the heroic resistance of the Indian soldiers against the invading Chinese troops. Shot and set in Ladakh, the main plot focuses on a group of Indian soldiers in the region, who are considered dead, but are actually rescued by tribesmen and Capt Bahadur Singh (Dharmendra). When the Chinese surround them, the soldiers are asked to retreat. However, things take turn for the worse, with retreating soldiers being outnumbered one after another, and what follows next is for you to watch and experience. The film is sure to leave you numb and speechless.
However, there are other aspects of life in the time of war that are also wonderfully woven into the screenplay. While focusing on the battleground and the valour of our heroes, the film also highlights the mental trauma and loneliness of the men in armed forces. It also explores a love story that blossoms between the Ladakhi soldier Capt Bahadur Singh and Kammo (Rajvansh), a young Kashmiri girl.
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| Trivia Reference Credit: House Full - The Golden Age of Hindi Cinema by Ziya Us Salam // 100 Bollywood Films by Rachel Dwyer |
While the film was majorly shot in Ladakh, Anand preferred to re-shoot a few shots. For this, a set with the Himalayas in background was built at a Mumbai studio. MS Sathyu brought the landscape to life, and his brilliance even earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Art Direction. Sadanand Sengupta's excellent cinematography played a key role in capturing the human nuances and large scale war sequences. Most cinephiles would agree that the film would be incomplete without the beautiful lyrics penned by Azmi and Madan Mohan's fine compositions. And of course, Haqeeqat stands out for it's perfect ensemble cast, and memorable performances by Sahni, Dharmendra, Rajvansh among others.
Haqeeqat won the Second Best National Feature Film Award (Rajat Kamal) in 1965. Even today, it is considered to be one the best films based on war. As the nation celebrates 70 years of Independence on August 15, it would be the perfect opportunity to watch this beautiful ode to the real heroes of our country. And what better than watching it with fellow countrymen and women, as Zee Classic premieres this timeless gem?
To celebrate the occasion of Independence Day, Zee Classic will premiere 'Haqeeqat' on August 15, 2017 at 9 am. Don't forget to tune in with your family and friends.
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The Dancebee
Toilet: Ek Prem Katha | Film Review
There are times when 'experiencing' a film may require watching it twice. I usually prefer watching some films at a multiplex and then, at a single screen (preferably one show with the family. Their reactions are always real and priceless). However, with just a few single screen cinemas remaining, it is not always possible to get tickets, as they sell out faster than a hot & crispy vada pav. But, as luck would have it, I got my tickets well in advance this time. Needless to say, my decision to watch this week's much anticipated release - Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, with the 'super cinephiles' of single screen cinema, was a terrific one. Watching the film amidst constant 'seetis', cheers and applause for Akshay Kumar's strong stand against open defecation, made for quite an experience. Something that a real cinephile at heart will always enjoy. That, apart from the joy of watching of a well made, entertaining film, where even the audience was happy to wait back right till the end of credits (a rare scene in today's times).
Shree Narayan Singh's second directorial venture focuses on an important issue, that of open defecation and the non-availability of toilets in most households. The lead protagonist - Keshav (Kumar) is a middle aged guy, who lives in a village called Mandgaon. Despite repeated attempts (and affairs), Keshav is unable to get married, thanks to a few compulsions set by his orthodox father (Sudhir Pandey - brilliant as always). First, Keshav must tie the knot with a cow to get rid of his dosha, and next, hunt for a girl who has two thumbs (insert regular 'Hrithik Roshan' puns). While on the hunt, he meets and falls in love with a feisty, educated young girl - Jaya (Pednekar). Some initial hurdles (and a few 'jugaads' later), the two get married. However, things go haywire the very next day, as Jaya finds out that her 'sasural' does not have a toilet, and Babuji isn't too keen on building one either. That's where the struggle begins, as Keshav and Jaya fight against all odds (including superstitions) for their right to basic sanitation.
Watching the film amidst constant 'seetis', cheers and applause for Akshay Kumar's strong stand against open defecation, made for quite an experience
TEPK is real, raw and supremely entertaining. While the basic premise is a social issue (and also centres around PM Modi's Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan), there is not a single moment where the film loses out on the entertainment factor. It wonderfully blends the two aspects together, and delivers a strong message, without being too preachy. Though, one may find a few hiccups during the second half, they don't really appear as flaws. The high points, especially performances and superb writing, pretty much covers up for everything else.
While the music is average, it fits in to the narrative pretty well. 'Gori Tu Lath Maar' has been shot beautifully. Surinder Sodhi's background score is decent. Siddharth - Garima's writing is deft, and is certainly one of the biggest highlight of this film. Dialogues are superb, most of which even earn whistles and cheers. It has a great melange of humour, romance and drama, and a sprinkle of culture, thanks to sanskrit shlokas. Singh's direction is slick, and it is impossible to ignore the detailing that has gone behind even the most simple aspects. For e.g: Keshav's street-side fashion dupes that range from Naik (Nike) to Uima (Puma) or the fake Ray-Ban. Each and every detail has been designed or incorporated keeping the surroundings in mind, which is laudable.
Dialogues are superb, most of which even earn whistles and cheers. It has a great melange of humour, romance and drama
The lead pair and ensemble cast are the real heart of this social - drama. Casting is fantastic, with artists like Divyendu, Sudhir Pandey, Anupam Kher among others adding life to their respective characters with a flawless act. Divyendu has an impeccable comic timing, and the audience erupts in laughter, every time he comes on screen. Pandey as the strict and orthodox Babuji is brilliant.
Despite the film being her second outing, Bhumi Pednekar shines with an outstanding act. With the perfect body language, nuances and fabulous dialogue delivery, she breathes life into Jaya. She does not make the character look caricaturish. Jaya is relatable and real. Pednekar 's natural act (and look) is one of the strongest highlights in the film. It is impossible for anyone to believe that the actress is just one film old. There are portions where she outshines all the veterans around her. That's the mark of a talented artist, and with this flawless performance, Pednekar has proved that she is here to stay.
Akshay Kumar is one of the very few actors who has managed to excel in different genres and has shown excellent range in all his films. There is no doubt that the actor is incredibly versatile. Film after film, he has raised the bar and taken things a notch above with his brilliant performance and vision. TEPK is no different. Kumar's portrayal of Keshav creates a strong impact. He starts off as a regular, confused local guy (with some serious stalking skills), but as the film progresses, the character grows into someone on a mission. Keshav's boy to man journey has been flawlessly essayed by Kumar. His chemistry with Pednekar's Jaya is fabulous, which is another strong highlight of the film.
Singh's Toilet: Ek Prem Katha is an important film of our times. It explores a love story, against the backdrop of several dark issues that the people of our country continue to suffer from. While focusing on open defecation as the larger picture, the film also touches upon other key issues, including superstition, societal pressure and narrow mindedness of the society. During Jaya's struggle against open defecation, she comes across women who pooh-pooh her decisions. Some even go on to question her education and state that women should not be given to much 'freedom'. It is commendable that Singh has highlighted the various evils that continue to poison our society, in a film that provides wholesome entertainment. It is difficult to find this perfect combination in a good film. Fortunately, TEPK has passed this litmus test with flying colours.
Verdict: A must watch for one and all! Highly recommended for it's flawless performances, excellent writing and the strong message, that creates an impact. Radhe Radhe!!
☆☆☆☆
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Despite the film being her second outing, Bhumi Pednekar shines with an outstanding act. With the perfect body language, nuances and fabulous dialogue delivery, she breathes life into Jaya. She does not make the character look caricaturish. Jaya is relatable and real. Pednekar 's natural act (and look) is one of the strongest highlights in the film. It is impossible for anyone to believe that the actress is just one film old. There are portions where she outshines all the veterans around her. That's the mark of a talented artist, and with this flawless performance, Pednekar has proved that she is here to stay.
Bhumi Pednekar 's natural act is one of the strongest highlights in the film. It is impossible for anyone to believe that the actress is just one film old
Akshay Kumar is one of the very few actors who has managed to excel in different genres and has shown excellent range in all his films. There is no doubt that the actor is incredibly versatile. Film after film, he has raised the bar and taken things a notch above with his brilliant performance and vision. TEPK is no different. Kumar's portrayal of Keshav creates a strong impact. He starts off as a regular, confused local guy (with some serious stalking skills), but as the film progresses, the character grows into someone on a mission. Keshav's boy to man journey has been flawlessly essayed by Kumar. His chemistry with Pednekar's Jaya is fabulous, which is another strong highlight of the film.
Akshay Kumar is one of the very few actors who has managed to excel in different genres and has shown excellent range in all his films
Singh's Toilet: Ek Prem Katha is an important film of our times. It explores a love story, against the backdrop of several dark issues that the people of our country continue to suffer from. While focusing on open defecation as the larger picture, the film also touches upon other key issues, including superstition, societal pressure and narrow mindedness of the society. During Jaya's struggle against open defecation, she comes across women who pooh-pooh her decisions. Some even go on to question her education and state that women should not be given to much 'freedom'. It is commendable that Singh has highlighted the various evils that continue to poison our society, in a film that provides wholesome entertainment. It is difficult to find this perfect combination in a good film. Fortunately, TEPK has passed this litmus test with flying colours.
Verdict: A must watch for one and all! Highly recommended for it's flawless performances, excellent writing and the strong message, that creates an impact. Radhe Radhe!!
☆☆☆☆
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The Odisha Sojourn | 22nd Asian Athletics Championships 2017
Last month, we got the chance to explore the scenic and serene - Odisha. Apart from touring the beautiful state, we were privileged to be a part of the prestigious - 22nd Asian Athletics Championships 2017, which was organised last month. Team Dancebee was invited as part of the special media delegation, and we got the wonderful opportunity to witness everything that went behind the making of this grand event.
Watch our latest video to catch Behind The Scenes action, impeccable performances (including singer Shankar Mahadevan's rendition of the popular Odia song - Rangabati) and many more glimpses from the beautiful opening ceremony event held at the newly constructed Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. PS: Don't forget to subscribe and spread the love!
Jab Harry Met Sejal | Film Review
The magic in his eyes will transport you to another world. His emotions will leave you teary eyed and melt your heart. Well, there is a reason why Shah Rukh Khan is the undisputed king of romance. He charms the audience, aged 6 to 60, with his splendid performances. With 'Jab Harry Met Sejal', the actor (who is currently celebrating his 25th year in the Hindi Film Industry) is at it yet again. And this time, he is out to charm you in a tale, where two lost souls find each other on a journey across countries.
Harry aka Harinder Singh Nehra (Shah Rukh Khan) is a tour guide in Europe, who left his home in Punjab at an early age and decided to settle down saat samandar paar. He is a well known casanova. Though outwardly he may appear all 'happy go lucky' and cool, but he is secretly seeking something else. Clearly, the guy is lonely, lost and directionless. For someone who is in & out of relationships and isn't steady with jobs, the character inwardly wants to escape his mundane lifestyle. Enter Sejal (Anushka Sharma), a talkative yet slightly confused Gujarati girl, who is on a quest of her own. Sejal comes from a restricted background, where she behaves and / or acts a certain way. During the Euro trip with her family, she loses her engagement ring and later, forces Harry (their guide) to join her on a search for the precious heirloom. What follows is a beautiful journey, that not only involves the mission to hunt a missing ring, but also explores self discovery and love.
What follows is a beautiful journey, that not only involves the mission to hunt a missing ring, but also explores self discovery and love
An Imtiaz Ali film is incomplete without serene locations, good music and of course, the challenges of discovering oneself. Jab Harry Met Sejal has the perfect melange of them all, with the addition of some flawless performances. Harry & Sejal's quest takes you across Europe; from Amsterdam to Prague and Budapest. The picturesque locations stand out on their own as a strong highlight. K.U Mohanan's cinematography is top notch and does complete justice to the lovely locations. While the story is simple, it has a few twists that will keep you hooked. Key moments in the film are laced with a good mix of wit, romance, drama and emotions. Be it the poignant moment where the duo break down at a local bar, yet shy away from expressing themselves (one of the best scenes, where both Khan and Sharma emote beautifully), the humorous exchange of words between Harry and a don (Chandan Roy Sanyal in a brilliant cameo) or the heartwarming scene where Harry walks down the steps, embraces Sejal (SRK in his signature style) and breaks into a melodious song, while pretending to be her fiancé; JHMS has some poetic scenes that will stay with you for long.
The picturesque locations stand out on their own as a strong highlight
The soundtrack composed by Pritam compliments this journey very well. It's good to hear some fresh, melodious (and original) tracks after a really long time
The film primarily focuses on the lead protagonists, and has very few supporting characters. However, the ones who feature do a fine job. The lead pair and their crackling chemistry is the real soul of this film. Anushka Sharma's Sejal is adorable. As the girl on a discovery of her own, Sharma effortlessly gets into the skin of her character and makes us believe that she is indeed the effervescent Sejal. Needless to say, Shah Rukh Khan dominates with his flawless portrayal of Harry. He breathes life into the character with his impeccable dialogue delivery, personality, nuances, wit and tone. It is equally or perhaps, more difficult to portray a raw and real character, who is struggling against his inner demons. But, the ease with which Khan wonderfully brings out Harry's complexities and becomes one with the character is simply incredible! There are heartwarming moments where Khan only emotes with his eyes. These little details and aspects of his act make him what he is - a superstar. This is a superior performance and no one apart from King Khan could have done justice to the character.
Shah Rukh Khan dominates with his flawless portrayal of Harry. He breathes life into the character with his impeccable dialogue delivery, personality, nuances, wit and tone
Jab Harry Met Sejal is a simple yet mesmerising tale, that unfolds like pure magic on the big screen. It will leave your heart feeling all warm and fuzzy. The brilliant performances and fine music are sure to leave you spellbound. Go out there and show some love to Harry & Sejal!
Verdict: An entertaining fare that certainly deserves a watch, especially for it's fabulous performances and the magic that is - Shah Rukh Khan.
⭐⭐1/2
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