Showing posts with label Exclusive Interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Exclusive Interview. Show all posts
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 turns 44 today. The actress ringed in her birthday with family and close friends with a chilled and relaxed get together. 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 sons [Taimur and Jeh], and never go anywhere without them.
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?
Join the conversation by leaving a comment below or follow us on
Love,
The Dancebee
*This article was first published on 21 September, 2019
Web shows are like great literature, where characters have enough time to breathe - Emraan Hashmi | Exclusive Interview (Bard of Blood)
After impressing us with his performance in the January release - Why Cheat India, and leaving an impactful mark with his act in 'Tigers' (which released on an OTT platform last year), actor Emraan Hashmi is all set to make his 'digital debut' with the much anticipated - Bard of Blood. Helmed by Ribhu Dasgupta and produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, the show is based on Bilal Siddiqui's espionage novel by the same name, and the show promises to be an edge of the seat, exhilarating spy thriller, with Hashmi essaying the role of an excommunicado RAW Agent named Kabir Anand.
If the teaser, trailer or the promotional buzz surrounding this Netflix drama hasn't got you excited already, we suggest you catch a cuppa and binge watch the show NOW (Yes, the show went live earlier today)! But before that, we aren't letting you go without enjoying our exclusive chat with Emraan Hashmi himself. From working on Bard of Blood to discussing the potential of OTT platforms in India, we got Hashmi to answer some interesting questions and the actor was all ears!
If the teaser, trailer or the promotional buzz surrounding this Netflix drama hasn't got you excited already, we suggest you catch a cuppa and binge watch the show NOW (Yes, the show went live earlier today)! But before that, we aren't letting you go without enjoying our exclusive chat with Emraan Hashmi himself. From working on Bard of Blood to discussing the potential of OTT platforms in India, we got Hashmi to answer some interesting questions and the actor was all ears!
Bard of Blood goes live on Netflix today, and the project generated immense curiosity. What went behind the scenes in the last few months?
A sneak peek from our Leh Schedule was screened at the Netflix conference in Singapore earlier this year. It was a 45 second video cut, which actually the audience never gets to see here. But, Netflix is very excited about the stuff we have shot. So much so, that we have had officials ask us if we have shot some portions on the moon (smiles). Leh Ladakh, as a terrain, is absolutely beautiful and a lot of people haven’t explored it to the fullest. So, we shot a schedule of 25 days there, and the final schedule was shot in Rajasthan. We are happy with the look and overall tone of this show, and we believe it has shaped up well. Bard of Blood is for the Indian audience, but at the same time, we are trying to hit a sweet spot for the 190 other countries that we are pitching it to, for the international audience. We’ve tried to retain some basic masala elements for the Indian audience (smiles), but while ensuring that we don’t play around with the logic.
What's the biggest takeaway from your character - Kabir Anand, or from the show as a whole?
I used to wake up at 6 am everyday, because we used to start shooting at 7 am, especially during the last few schedules. The entire shooting experience was brilliant, and undoubtedly, the best takeaway for me has got to be discipline. We shot this show over a period of eight months, which means, I have literally lived my character - Kabir Anand, throughout that time. So, that's the longest I have ever lived any character. Technically, a film has about two - three hours of screen time. However, a show like Bard of Blood has seven episodes, about 45 - 47 minutes each. That's almost five hours of screen time. So, it won't be wrong to say that Kabir is going to resonate with me for sometime.
What's the biggest takeaway from your character - Kabir Anand, or from the show as a whole?
I used to wake up at 6 am everyday, because we used to start shooting at 7 am, especially during the last few schedules. The entire shooting experience was brilliant, and undoubtedly, the best takeaway for me has got to be discipline. We shot this show over a period of eight months, which means, I have literally lived my character - Kabir Anand, throughout that time. So, that's the longest I have ever lived any character. Technically, a film has about two - three hours of screen time. However, a show like Bard of Blood has seven episodes, about 45 - 47 minutes each. That's almost five hours of screen time. So, it won't be wrong to say that Kabir is going to resonate with me for sometime.
What’s your take on the shift of entertainment consumption on OTT and social media platforms?
The shift is huge. Six-seven years back, when the digital boom hadn’t hit, our industry thought that people were consuming things on music channels, television. But, 80% of the people now consume it on YouTube. Most of the people who come to cinema halls actually want that time wherein they can watch their favourite content when they want to see it, and not at a particular or set time. That’s one power we’ve got as an audience, and it’s here to stay. People from our industry resisted, because their major livelihood does not depend on it right now, and they do see it as a threat. But, everyone will eventually jump on the bandwagon, which is clearly happening. It’s like the advent of television after radio, or VHS after television. Initially, people resist and then jump on it. So, digital is in that sphere and is growing very fast. For e.g: Netflix wants their next 100 million to come from India, which is a huge number, and they are willing to explore that in their five year plan. It won’t eat away from films, but it will be a parallel avenue. It will certainly make us pull our socks up and think about the content that we are presenting to the audience.
Go on..
Right now, when people are consuming content on these platforms, you can’t keep churning out the same type of films that you did a decade back. Because, they are now exposed to a lot more, and have experienced a variety of genres. So, it will definitely keep us on our toes. Like, even for a show like Bard of Blood! I am a big fan of web shows. With films, everything is compressed into two hours. But here, it’s like great literature, where you have enough time for characters to breathe. They can form over a period of 8-10 parts in a series, which is not possible with films. It’s a different platform, but there will always be takers for cinema when you go for communal viewing, and of course, the personal or family viewing would continue on OTT platforms, which is great as everyone has an option now.
Would you be open to backing original productions for digital platforms in the future as a producer?
At least in Hollywood, most of the great writing is on the web. Apart from some of the Marvel films, most films have failed to perform well in the last one-two years. Web shows and original productions have fared better. So, writers again have a space where they can spread their wings, and do things out of the box. So, as a producer, I would definitely want to explore digital productions as well.
You’ve got your hands full with some interesting projects. Tell us something about the line up!
There is Father’s Day, an untitled film with Kunal Deshmukh. Another project is in the pipeline currently, which shall be announced shortly. I’ll be starting work on these projects very soon. There is Body, which is complete and shall release sometime next year. And now, Bard of Blood on Netflix is finally live. So, I feel grateful to have more than my hands full.
Are you looking forward to watching Bard of Blood on Netflix? Share your thoughts and feedback by leaving a comment below or Join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
The Dancebee
The Cheat Sheet | Emraan Hashmi - Exclusive Interview
That he has a carved a niche for himself as a star, with films that deliver chartbuster music hits, and his earnest performances garner appreciation from all corners, is a known fact. However, after entertaining the audience as an actor, Emraan Hashmi is now geared up to step into an all new role - that of a producer. With his banner - Emraan Hashmi Films, ready with the release of their first production venture 'Why Cheat India', and a string of interesting films lined up; Hashmi is surely a happy man. On a breezy Wednesday afternoon, we caught up with the busy man, in between promotions of his latest film. Right before a shoot, we were invited for a rather candid and leisurely chat at his tastefully done up (and may I add, beautiful) abode in suburban Mumbai. He is all gung-ho about the release, and seems visibly excited about the digital space, with a plethora of ideas waiting to take off. For those who came in late, Hashmi is all set to join the web series bandwagon with Red Chillies Entertainment's much awaited show 'Bard of Blood', where he will be seen playing the lead protagonist - Kabir Singh. After a long time, fans of the actor will get to see more of him, both on the big screen and other platforms. Naturally, he is enthusiastic about this phase, and so are we. As we settled down after a quick exchange of greetings, armed with questions ranging from his films to digital media and more, the actor looked all set to shoot his responses. So, here we go!
Why Cheat India - your first production venture, Bard of Blood - first series for Netflix, and finally saw the release of a long awaited film - Tigers. It’s been quite a year!
It was all pretty unplanned (smiles). Tigers was something that has been waiting in the cans for the past couple of years. It was with the director for the past fourteen years, as he researched the film way before it got out there on the field for shooting. But, for us, we were just trying to get this message out. We are happy that it is finally up there for people to see and understand what is happening in the developing part of the world. I am extremely happy with the response. Also, Why Cheat India has shaped up really well, and I am happy with the acclaim that the trailer has received. When Soumik (Sen - director) came to me a year back, I was really excited about this idea, because it really is one of a kind. We haven’t seen a film that focuses on the education system through this perspective. Not to generalise Hindi films, but usually, there is this whole Masala film zone that does well at the box office. But, there is a certain frivolity in that. You don’t really address issues. It’s really difficult to address an issue, and at the same time, make the film entertaining, which I liked when I first read the script and liked the idea back then. And, I am happy that both the teaser and trailer received a fantastic response. Just like Tigers focused on an issue, this too focuses on a pertinent issue that is plaguing our education system. Of course, this doesn’t resolve things overnight, but it definitely starts a conversation. It’s a film that is not just important for the kids, but also for parents, as they don’t know what’s going on. The nexus that works behind the closed doors, and how the education system has been fractured.
Why Cheat India - your first production venture, Bard of Blood - first series for Netflix, and finally saw the release of a long awaited film - Tigers. It’s been quite a year!
It was all pretty unplanned (smiles). Tigers was something that has been waiting in the cans for the past couple of years. It was with the director for the past fourteen years, as he researched the film way before it got out there on the field for shooting. But, for us, we were just trying to get this message out. We are happy that it is finally up there for people to see and understand what is happening in the developing part of the world. I am extremely happy with the response. Also, Why Cheat India has shaped up really well, and I am happy with the acclaim that the trailer has received. When Soumik (Sen - director) came to me a year back, I was really excited about this idea, because it really is one of a kind. We haven’t seen a film that focuses on the education system through this perspective. Not to generalise Hindi films, but usually, there is this whole Masala film zone that does well at the box office. But, there is a certain frivolity in that. You don’t really address issues. It’s really difficult to address an issue, and at the same time, make the film entertaining, which I liked when I first read the script and liked the idea back then. And, I am happy that both the teaser and trailer received a fantastic response. Just like Tigers focused on an issue, this too focuses on a pertinent issue that is plaguing our education system. Of course, this doesn’t resolve things overnight, but it definitely starts a conversation. It’s a film that is not just important for the kids, but also for parents, as they don’t know what’s going on. The nexus that works behind the closed doors, and how the education system has been fractured.
Talking about Why Cheat India, what was it about the script that caught your attention and left you impressed?
Conversations about the education system. My journey in school and college has not been very different from other people’s journey. Everyone hates it, as there is a laborious process of getting through those various exams. Whenever you talk to anyone who has been through this process, even during the 70s and 80s, or during the 50s when my father was growing up; everyone has the same story. It’s just regressive and is stuck in time. We are seeing the 21st century from a 20th century lens, as it feels like the education system is stuck 100 years back. And, you do see a lot of corruption around in the country, with education being an extremely corrupt system as well. So, one was definitely the internals of the system which is completely fractured. The other one that there are traditional end of things, where people are making money, and it’s a strong nexus. From fake degrees to appointing faculties; a lot of gets done. All of these factors need to be addressed. It couldn’t have been addressed in a film, if it wouldn’t have been entertaining. So, he has added some great characterisation.
We haven’t seen a film that focuses on the education system through this perspective
Tell us a little bit about your character in the film.
It was a departure for me, from the characters I have played in the past. People have loved the characters I have played on screen, and most of them haven’t been devious. This has shades of that, but he is a very ‘wolf in sheep’ clothing kinda guy. Someone who will pray in the morning, and then makes life miserable for people. He has got no ethics, and is an unapologetically bad guy. Still, he is the loveable bad guy. And, that’s how the anti-hero is changing in the past couple of years. You make the audience hate him, but also add things that he stands for, which you love him for. So, he is a blend of both! And of course, it does have 4-5 songs in it (smiles).
Why Cheat India marks the first venture under the banner - Emraan Hashmi Films. In the future, what genre of films would you be interested to back or support, as a producer?
There are certain genres that work for the audience, but don’t go with my sensibilities. One of them is comedy. Not putting down comedies made in our country, but I don’t connect with that. But, if I had to do a comedy, I wouldn’t mind it, but as a producer I would love to do a comedy that I’d want to see. Something which doesn’t alienate the audience, but at the same time, doesn’t dole the same content that has been churned out over and over again for the past 30-40 years. I like real films like Why Cheat India, which can also entertain at the same time. So, I would want to do more of these kind of films. I would also like to explore the action genre in a manner, which would be a drastic change from the kind of regular action you get to see. They have seen bits of it in films like Awaarapan, Baadshaaho and will get to see a lot of it in Bard of Blood. But, again the action hero in our country is something I don’t get. I don’t understand a guy fighting 15 people. If I get into this genre, I would like to break the mould. Let’s see, once the film releases, I will sit down and choose which genres I would want to explore.
As a producer, I wouldn't want to alienate the audience, but at the same time, I won't dole the same content that has been churned out over and over again for the past 30-40 years
If films are entertaining, the impact of an issue is much larger - Akshay Kumar | Interview
From bringing us the story of India's first gold medal win at the Olympics to turning antagonist in a sci-fi film; there is no stopping Akshay Kumar! The actor has an interesting line up of films in 2018, and it all kickstarts with a heartwarming story that touches upon a topic that is often considered a taboo in several countries (including India, of course) - menstruation. The effervescent Kumar will be seen stepping into the shoes of Padma Shri Arnunachalam Muruganantham - the social entrepreneur from Coimbatore who is credited to generating mechanisms for creating awareness around menstrual hygiene - in the much awaited film Padman, which is all set to release tomorrow.
Kumar has been actively involved in social causes and philanthropic activities. Be it collecting funds for Bharat ke Veer or creating awareness around the use of toilets; the actor has rightly stood up for important causes and made good use of social media to voice his opinion. No wonder, his current campaign for Padman has been generating maximum buzz across all social media platforms, with friends from the industry, fans and the audience posing with a pad to lend their support to menstrual hygiene and ditching the taboo. In between a long day of promotions for his upcoming film, we caught up with Akshay Kumar. In a candid conversation, the actor discussed his journey so far, reinventing himself with every film, ideas to promote menstrual hygiene among women in rural areas and lots more. Excerpts from our rendezvous with the one and only 'Khiladi':
What was it about the script of Padman, which deals with the topic of Menstruation, that interested you the most?
I didn't know much about menstruation when I was growing up. My mother or sister never discussed it in front of me. I was 15 when I came to know about it. I had seen a sanitary pad, but never touched it, until the last one and a half year. I realised the depth of menstrual hygiene in our country only two years ago, when my wife explained the seriousness of this issue. Almost 82% women don't know how to maintain hygiene during their monthly cycle. They use mud, ash and leaves to stop the bleeding. They are excluded from many things in day to day life . They cannot enter kitchen or the temple. They are not allowed to touch anything and are asked to sit in a separate corner. In the South, they literally celebrate when a girl attains her puberty. She is given a lot of gifts which gives her the confidence that life is beautiful. Otherwise they will be ashamed of it. However, I feel the best thing about this is that men are talking about pads now. That was when I realised that we have to make a movie on this topic. We met Arunachal Muruganathan. I came to know how much he cared for his wife and he invented a machine by investing Rs.60,000 to make sanitary napkins.
How much change do you think will a film like Padman bring about globally, especially in the menstrual hygiene and care space?
Even Hollywood has not made a film on this topic. They made movies on condoms and sperms. It's like a global taboo subject. Many women them end up suffering from cervical cancer. Everything is so hush hush in our society. It's high time we speak about this openly. A day will come when daughters will ask their father to buy them a sanitary pad while returning home. This is a natural process which helps a woman give birth to a child. When I made Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, it brought about a change. It gave reasons to people as to why they should build a toilet for their mother or wives. Now, I did Padman and men are discussing about it on social platform. That itself is a victory for me. I don't care whether the film does well or not, what business it does. What matters is the fact that men are slowly and steadily opening up to discuss this topic now.
A day will come when daughters will ask their father to buy them a sanitary pad while returning home. This is a natural process which helps a woman give birth to a child
Any particular incident during the shoot that you can recall and share with our readers?
I was shooting with local actors. For two days, they shot with me very nicely and then there was a scene where they were asked to hold a sanitary pad in their hand. They didn't say anything and ran away from there. When we called for them, they said they will not hold a sanitary pad in their hands as it is a grave sin.
Do you feel that the government should abolish GST rates on sanitary napkins?
Sanitary pads are an important necessity in every country. In the future, I want it to be distributed free of cost. More and more women should be able to afford a pad. Today, close to 90% women are not able to afford it. We have to cater to them. Something like this will just be 2% of the defence budget. I never thought about tax free, because it should certainly be GST free.
Do you think films like these, especially the ones that deal with social causes, have the power to create a lasting impact on the audience?
A film does create an impact! I was always aware about this, but I didn't have enough money to make such films. So, when I had the money, I started making films. If it is supported by the government, it can create more impact. Just like Toilet... did. I hope they understand this film and take it forward. This is the need of our times. I have been meeting and talking to women in order to understand this issue. The biggest problem is when they are menstruating, they are surrounded by so much taboo and often don't maintain hygiene. The boys, mostly in rural areas, tease girls girls that they are on a 'five day test match', when they see their stained skirts.
In the future, I want sanitary pads to be distributed free of cost. More and more women should be able to afford a pad. Today, close to 90% women are not able to afford it
Any other issues you want to explore and tackle in your future films?
I am doing Housefull 4 next. I want to do different kinds of movie. I am not here to do only issue based films. I want to entertain people. I like to present such issues through entertainment. If the films are entertaining, the impact of an issue is much larger. For e.g: Toilet Ek Prem Katha helped create a lot of change in some rural areas. The government has done a lot for creating awareness around the use of toilets. Open Defecation was close to 66% before we made the film. Now, it is somewhere close to 33%. I get these stories when I meet different people. Like, I had been to Pune recently for Padman promotions. I met an interesting man and really liked his story. Someday, I will call him and make it into a film. Recently, someone asked me to do something on the dowry system of our country. These days instead of showing documentaries, they are showing my movies. These are issue based films, but done in a commercial space. I am not here to make a documentary film. I am making a film with song, dance, romance and fights.
Have you heard how much impact Padman has created now?
I recently came to know that NDSC is planning to install sanitary pad machine in all schools. Hopefully, all the women in our country will have pads and use them in the future. The Government will have to spend Rs 400 on every woman, and their problems will be solved. Changes will happen and this film is about a great future. Today, approximately 10-20% women can afford a sanitary napkin. In the future, rest of them should have it too. Also, invest in a machine where they can destroy it. Now, I am planning to have a menstrual kit for women at shootings. We always have a first aid kit at shoots. But, where's the menstrual kit? Where can she get medicines and sanitary pads in emergencies?
Do you think being a superstar creates more impact on such issues?
It does have an impact, but you have to do it seriously. I am playing a villain in my next film - 2.0 (Robot), but that does not mean that you have to turn negative in real life (laughs).
This is perhaps the first time a major Bollywood superstar is playing an antagonist in a film down South.
It is a pleasure being beaten up by Rajnikant (smiles). People have asked me, why I am playing a villain in Robot 2.0? My simple response is - why shouldn't I? Such a big franchise and working with Rajni Sir is a big achievement.
We always have a first aid kit at shoots. But, where's the menstrual kit? Where can she get medicines and sanitary pads in emergencies?
Do you think hard work and the right choice of scripts helped you in sustaining so long in this otherwise extremely competitive industry?
I had to reinvent myself every time. During the 90's, I did a lot of action. Film makers did not give me any other roles. Whenever an action film would come up, they would say give it give to him. I used to loathe myself for doing the same kind of roles. I started feeling that I was not capable of doing anything more than action. At that time, I did a film called Hera Pheri. I played a comic character and I didn't have a heroine opposite me in the film. From that day, I started testing my ground. Priyadarshan was kind enough to give me that role. I started experimenting and taking up different roles, which meant even doing a negative character like the one in Ajnabee. Later, I also did romantic roles in films like Dhadkan, Ek Rishta among others. It was way back then that I did a film with social subject in a movie titled Khatta Meetha, which was based on corruption in the road construction industry. Back then, that film didn't do well, but if I release it now, I am sure people would love it. There is a lot of corruption going on within the road construction space. The other day, I was travelling in my car and sitting in the back seat. A cop stopped us and told my driver to show our papers. He wanted to know if we had paid road tax. I poked my head and told the police man, "Show me where the road is?" He started laughing. Our roads are so bad!
While most actors prefer creating a rapport with the same film makers, you have always been open to working with new directors.
I enjoy doing films with new directors. I have worked with 22 new directors and close to 17 debutant heroines. I like to mould and merge myself with the film maker's vision, just like water. Whenever I listen to their narration, I see the greed in them to tell their story through the film. They are all charged. That is what I love about them (new directors). And, that is what an actor looks for. He wants creativity. My success ratio with new directors has been much better than any other film makers.
You have been known for your discipline on both the professional and personal front. When or how did you develop it?
My dad was in the Army. He was a wrestler, and later worked for the UNICEF. Hence, I have always been disciplined as a kid. He never stopped me from doing anything. I got so much freedom that I didn't feel like doing anything. When I was 18, he told me to smoke and drink at home, so that he can take care of me. It's like in school, when you are asked not to bunk, you feel you should try it and you enjoy bunking school. But, somehow you don't enjoy bunking college, because no one is bothered. So, I never got the habit. Today, you cannot force the kids of this generation to do anything. You have to explain everything nicely. Smoking and drinking is bad, but if you must, do it at home.
During the 90's, I did a lot of action. Film makers did not give me any other roles. Whenever an action film would come up, they would say give it give to him. I used to loathe myself for doing the same kind of roles
Will there ever be a biopic on Rajesh Khanna, or would you want to like to see a biopic based on your life in the future?
The family does not want a biopic. Their father is a father and they don't want to make a film on him. As far as a biopic on my life is concerned, I am not interested in making such a film.
You have completed 27 years in the industry, done more than 100+ films and received a National Award recently. How do you look back at your journey?
My journey is such that anybody would want to be in my shoes. I have been a lucky man. I have seen a lot of ups and downs, but it has been a lovely and enjoyable journey. I have no regrets. I am enjoying every bit now and earlier also. It has been fantastic.
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
How will I know what I will be doing after ten years? (smiles) Well, I am running now, but the day I slow down, I will take a back seat.
Are you excited to watch Padman? Let us know by leaving a comment below or join the conversation on
Cinema's Own Superwoman | Vidya Balan - Exclusive Interview
There is no stopping Vidya Balan! With a perfect success rate in the industry packed, topped with some of the most impactful performances in the last decade, winning hearts, earning accolades, sweeping awards (even scoring a hat trick), becoming a CBFC board member and more; the actress is clearly one of Bollywood’s finest, most talented gems. Close to twelve years after her debut as the charming Lalita in Parineeta, Balan continues to dominate as one of B-town’s leading ladies, as film makers continue to line up with author backed roles for the vivacious actress. This time, Balan is all set to charm the audience as Sulochana in a fun, slice of life film titled - Tumhari Sulu, where she will be seen multitasking as a home maker and a late night show RJ. As the film gets ready to hit the screens tomorrow, the vivacious actress spoke about her character and discusses cinema, life and more in an exclusive chat with Diary of a Dancebee.
What was that one trait or element of your character - Sulu, that stood out for you?
The very fact that she is a complete enthu-cutlet. That’s the perfect way to describe her! She is full of life, fun and is always ready for challenges that come her way.
Just like Sulu, do you think women today are more open to experimenting with their professional choices, as compared to the time when you started off or were still in college?
Absolutely! They are definitely open to experimenting with their career choices and even multitasking a lot more. But, while women today have more opportunities, there is also a lot more pressure and responsibility. That doesn’t mean women back then didn’t have any of it. However, the hectic lifestyle today has changed a lot of things around us. Everything around is so quick and fast paced. Today, most women spend hours traveling from home to work and back. They also have personal commitments and responsibilities to look after. So, while the scope is much better, the pressure has also increased.
The hectic lifestyle today has changed a lot of things around us
Personally, how do you maintain a fine balance between both personal and professional life?
Honestly, I don’t think I am good at maintaining a fine balance (smiles). I don’t multitask much, when compared to women who travel for hours, work for long and also run their homes successfully. That’s one reason why I think the term ‘housewife’ should be replaced by ‘home maker’. She is the one who truly brings the home together. It’s not an easy task! I remember that while traveling by local trains during my time as a student at St.Xavier’s College, I used to see women cutting vegetables on their way back. They would carry small zip pouches with some pieces of vegetables, cut them and place everything back in separate pouches again. Being in a position where I don’t have to cook, buy groceries or perform some of the tasks that home makers have to do every day, since my house help takes care of it, makes me feel that I am not really multitasking in anyway. At least, not when compared to the women who spend hours maintaining a balance between their personal and professional commitments, with all the pressure around. Hats off to them!
Professionally, was there any point in your life where you wanted to take up something else, other than acting?
I don’t think I could ever do anything apart from acting. I never thought of any alternate career. As cliched as it may sound, but I have always wanted to become an actor (smiles).
I don’t think I could ever do anything apart from acting
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| Image Source: Filmfare Dec - 2016 |
What is your earliest memory of cinema and watching movies while growing up?
You know, I wasn't really into watching a lot of movies when I was a kid. We didn’t make frequent trips to the cinema hall as such. The only time we used to watch something would be on Doordarshan, when they played Hindi films around Sunday evening. My mom introduced me to regional films, which were also played on Doordarshan during the weekend. My first exposure to world cinema was in college. I remember, MAMI - Mumbai Film Festival had just started off and they were looking for volunteers. I excitedly signed up for it, and was assigned the task of announcing the film name with details before every screening. That was my first tryst with world cinema. I was mesmerised by the enchanting world of movies, and felt lucky to witness some exceptionally crafted films from Iran, Europe, Japan, France among others. From then, there was no looking back and I fell in love with cinema forever.
What has been the most special takeaway for you from any of the characters that you have essayed so far?
It’s interesting how every character that I have essayed on screen has been so different from the other, and each of them have had traits that are so unique. Again, it would be difficult for me to make a single choice, because all of them have left an impact that will stay with me for long. From among the recent ones, let’s take Sulu as an example. She is a complete go-getter. Her response to everything would be “Main Karegi.” That kind of confidence is very hard to find. It is very inspiring and encouraging. Definitely a special takeaway for me!
All the characters I have essayed on screen have left an impact that will stay with me for long
What according to you was a career defining moment or perhaps, a turning point in your life as an artist?
It would be very difficult to choose just one. There have been so many important moments, that have not only got me awards, acclaim and recognition, but also helped me become what I am today. Right from bagging a film like Parineeta as a debutant to essaying a challenging character like Monjolika in Bhool Bhulaiyaa and working in a film like The Dirty Picture; all of them contributed in some way or the other. I feel among my early films, Bhool Bhulaiyaa was extremely important. Another film was Ishqiya. I ventured into a completely new space and it gave me immense creative satisfaction as an artist. So, there has always been a lot to learn and be thankful for.
What’s next on the cards for you?
As of now, there is nothing. I am in talks and have also heard a few ideas. Hopefully, something new for 2018 shall come up soon.
What do you have to say to your fans, especially the 'VB' family on social media?
They are the sweetest, aren't they? Thank you for all the love. You guys are way too sweet.
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The Dancebee
The Dream Chaser - Shraddha Kapoor | Exclusive Interview
Most of us have more to our personality than what meets the eye. Shraddha Kapoor is one such talented artist, who wears more than one hat when it comes to her incredible skills. As an actor, she has her kitty full with interesting film projects, including a biopic based on Badminton champion Saina Nehwal, a Tollywood film - Saaho, opposite Prabhas among others. Off screen too, the actress has been juggling various commitments, ranging from promotional events for her film to shooting for commercials. However, none of this has stopped Shraddha from taking out time for all that she loves and swears by. Music, being one such passion that is closest to her heart.
On a gloomy weekday in Mumbai (a little before she hurt herself. the actress is currently on bedrest and we wish her a speedy recovery), we met the charming actress for an interaction. Surrounded by trendy optical glasses in various colours and styles, Shraddha (being her vibrant, chirpy self) stepped out of her room in a chic, comfortable attire and instantly brightened up our day. Over cups of freshly brewed coffee, we settled down to discuss the other side of Shraddha Kapoor’s personality. Excerpts from our conversation:
Ever since your debut, how have you managed to maintain the right balance between your career and passion? How do you take time out for riyaaz?
The thing is, I got the opportunity to take my passion the next level through the films that I was a part of, and went on to sing for. So, I did have the time. I have given music the attention that it deserves in my life. Also, I truly believe if you really love something, it is possible to make time. One must make time for anything that they are passionate about, aside from pursuing their professional commitments.
Did you take any formal training for music or singing?
Who has been your biggest influence, when it comes to multitasking and creating a fine balance between career and passion?
Yes, I have taken some formal training. I particularly trained for Rock On 2, recently. Plus, coming from a family with a musical background, I was lucky to get the chance to train with my Nana (Pandit Pandharinath Kolhapure).
Was there any point in life where you thought you could give music a chance and a make career in that field?
I feel that although professionally I am an actor, I am getting the opportunity to do the things that I love. Being an actor, singing, dancing; I love all of this! In fact, I also write, but I haven’t had the chance to share my writings with the world. I also paint. So, I am doing everything that I love and wouldn’t have it any other way.
I feel that although professionally I am an actor, I am getting the opportunity to do the things that I love. Being an actor, singing, dancing; I love all of this! In fact, I also write, but I haven’t had the chance to share my writings with the world. I also paint. So, I am doing everything that I love and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Who has been your biggest influence, when it comes to multitasking and creating a fine balance between career and passion?
Jim Carrey was quite an influence during my growing up years. He is a fantastic actor, and he also paints very well. His paintings are absolutely fascinating.
Music or acting, which one would you choose as your first love?
It would be very difficult to make a choice. Both acting and music are extremely close to my heart. And, I love dancing also. So, the choice between all of these is extremely tough.
I am doing everything that I love and wouldn’t have it any other way
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| Image Source: Filmfare Magazine (2017) |
It would be very difficult to make a choice. Both acting and music are extremely close to my heart. And, I love dancing also. So, the choice between all of these is extremely tough.
You have sung quite a few popular songs for your films. Which one was the most challenging to record? Was there any nervousness?
I think the first track that I recorded - Galliyan (Ek Villain) was quite challenging. When you do something for the first time, it always has an edge to it. There is always a sense of nervousness. Thankfully, the song got a great response and I was very happy to see the reaction. Even Rock On 2 was a challenge, especially since I was playing a singer. The script demanded that I sing my own songs and I had to ensure that I do my rehearsals well.
Your last film, Haseena Parkar, had you essaying the role of a woman who evolves over the years. Was the process of getting into the skin of a character, in a film which is based on true events, challenging for you?
Absolutely! I had to show the character’s journey from 17 to 45, which is the range of her age in the film. You know, the different transitions and changes in various phases of life, right from her teenage years to 20s, 30s and 40s are very distinct. She evolves through the years and to be able to do justice to her evolution while essaying the role was a big task. Haseena has experienced a lot of loss in her life and to be able to portray a character who has experienced so many things, it did get quite challenging and emotionally heavy.
You have a strong following down South and finally, you are making a debut in the Telugu film industry with Saaho, opposite Prabhas. Excited?
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| Image Credit: Rohan Shreshtha |
When you do something for the first time, it always has an edge to it. There is always a sense of nervousness
You have a strong following down South and finally, you are making a debut in the Telugu film industry with Saaho, opposite Prabhas. Excited?
You know, when I signed Saaho, the makers very sweetly old me the same thing and I was very excited, happy to know that I have fans down South. Saaho is going to be a multi-lingual film and it will be shot in two languages simultaneously, which is in Hindi and Telugu. It will further be dubbed in some more regional languages. Naturally, I am very excited about my Tollywood debut!
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