Showing posts with label India. Show all posts
Showing posts with label India. Show all posts
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.”
65th National Film Awards - Legendary Actors Late Sridevi, Vinod Khanna Win Awards Posthumously | Full Winners List
The 65th National Film Awards 2017 were announced earlier today. Veteran Hindi film actor - Late Vinod Khanna, was posthumously awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contribution to Indian Cinema. Late Actress Sridevi won the Best Actress award posthumously, for her flawless performance in the 2017 hit - Mom. Some of the other prominent winners in various categories for this year include film maker S.S Rajamouli's ‘Baahubali - The Conclusion’ in the Best Popular Film providing Wholesome Entertainment category, Marathi film ‘Dhappa’ in the Nargis Dutt Award For Best Feature Film On National Integration, Nagraj Manjule for Best Direction in the Non Feature Film Category. Actor Pankaj Tripathi got the Special Mention for his performance in the film Newton. Amit.V.Masurkar's critically acclaimed film also bagged the Best Hindi Feature Film award. A.R Rahman was awarded the Best Music Direction award for the movie ‘Kaatru Veliyidai’, making him the only composer to win six National awards.
Complete List of 65th National Film Award Winners:
Dadasaheb Phalke Award - Late Vinod Khanna
Best Actress: Late Sridevi for ‘Mom’
Best Actor: Riddhi Sen for ‘Nagar Kirtan’
Best Director: Jayaraj for ‘Bhayanakam’
Best Film: Village Rockstars (Assamese)
Best Supporting Actor (Female): Divya Dutta - Irda
Best Supporting Actor (Male): Fahad Fazil - Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum
Best Choreography: Ganesh Acharya, 'Gori Tu Lath Maar' - Toilet Ek Prem Katha
Best Original Screenplay: Sajeev Pazhoor - Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum
Best Adapted Screenplay: Jayaraj - Bhayanakam
Best Special Effects: Baahubali 2: The Conclusion
Special Jury Award: Nagar Kirtan (Bengali)
Best Lyrics: Muthurathinam
Best Music Direction: AR Rahman - Katru Veliyidayi
Best Make-up Artist: Ram Rajak - Nagar Kirtan
Best Costume: Gobinda Mandal - Nagar Kirtan
Best Production Design: Santosh Rajan - Take Off
Best Editing: Rima Das - Village Rockstar
Best Sound Design: Walking With The Wind
Best Audiography (Location Sound): Mallika Das - Village Rockstar
Best Location Sound Recording: Mallika Das - Village Rockstar
Best Cinematography: Nikhil S Parveen - Bhayanakam
Best Female Playback Singer: Sashaa Tirupati, Song - Vaan from Kaatru Veliyidayi
Best Male Playback Singer: K.J Yesudas, Song - Poy Maranja Kalam from Viswasapoorvam Mansoor
Best Child Artist: Anita Das - Village Rockstar
Special Jury Award: A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings
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| A still from the film 'Mhorkya' |
Best Animated Film: The Fish Curry and Tokri: The Basket
Best Film on Environmental Conservation: Irada
Best Film on Environmental Conservation: Irada
Best Feature Film on National Integration: Dhappa (Marathi)
Best Debut Film of a Director: Pampally - Sinjar
Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment: ‘Baahubali 2: The Conclusion’
Best Children's Film: 'Mhorkya'
Best Regional Films Special Mention
Marathi - Mhorkya
Malayalam - Take Off
Best Regional Films
Hindi - Newton
Ladakhi - Walking With The Wind
Jasari - Sinjar
Tulu - Paddayi
Marathi - Kachcha Limboo
Malayalam - Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum
Kannada - Hebbettu Ramakka
Bengali - Mayurakshi
Assamese - Ishu
Telugu - Ghazi
Oriya - Hello Arsi
Gujarati - Dhh
Birthday Special | Here's why we love Sushant Singh Rajput
It's amazing how in a span of just seven years, actor Sushant Singh Rajput has created a strong impact in the industry! It started from ruling the telly tube and eventually led him to becoming the rising superstar of Bollywood. He was much loved in a daily soap titled Pavitra Rishta in 2009, and his natural portrayal of the garage owner - Manav, won several hearts. His natural act, confidence and sincerity, plus the ever growing fan base and popularity, helped him bag an amazing Bollywood debut in the form of Kai Po Che. Since then, there has been no looking back. From turning detective to a lover boy and captain cool in M.S Dhoni - The Untold Story; Sushant has done it all! Now, all eyes are set on Chanda Mama Door Ke; one of the much awaited films where Rajput will be seen playing an astronaut. What's more, he has been training at NASA too, making not just his fans, but the entire country proud. As the actor turns 32 today, we take a look at moments and reasons, that make SSR one of the most loved young superstars of Bollywood today!
Dream Dancer
We all know that he was a part of SDIPA (Shiamak Davar's Dance Institute) and performed at several award functions, including Filmfare. But, what really leaves us in awe is his sincerity and dedication towards the art form. He is a constant learner and loves exploring new dance forms. He performs like a dream, and we have been fortunate to see several glimpses of his flawless performances in shows like Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Also, remember, Bach ke Bakshy? Though, we wish to see him dance more often on the big screen.
Fitness First!
One look at his lifestyle, and we can't help but get inspired. Despite the work load and hectic schedule, Sushant makes it a point to follow his workout routine religiously. His inspirational fitness videos - #TillIGetItRight - on YouTube are proof. The actor has always been vocal about maintaining a healthy, fit lifestyle and recently, even spoke about how he ushered tons of positivity in his life after kicking the butt (read: he quit smoking and inspired others to do it too).
The Conventional Route? Naaa!!
Not the one who follows the typical, old school route, Sushant has preferred walking on the unconventional path, right from the early stage of his career. He is not someone who is bound by mediocrity. Instead of opting for stereotypical roles or sticking to one genre, he went for unique scripts and experimented with his characters. Be it Raghu - the tourist guide or the charming Sarfaraz, Sushant has always left us impressed with his acting skills.
Professionalism
Sushant balances his professional and personal life very well. He avoids becoming a part of controversies, and instead, prefers to shift all his focus towards work. He is known to have a professional approach towards all his commitments and is always punctual.
Being Human
The actor is known to be very humble and rooted. He has always confessed that no matter where he goes or what he does, he will never forget his middle class roots. Sushant, who comes from a humble family and went through a lot to struggle, does not believe in giving up and dares to dream. In a recent interview, he confessed that he constantly strives to realise his full potential and become a good human being. He has been actively involved in supporting the cause of education for all. His love for literature also saw him kickstart an interesting project - The Book Club, on Twitter. His positive and real approach towards life, and philosophical thoughts (often seen on his official Twitter account) make him a very cool, young inspirational actor!
We wish you a very happy birthday, Sushant! Have an incredible 2018. Keep shining bright.
Love,
The Dancebee
The Dancebee
Banjo | Film Review
Banjo, the musical drama directed by acclaimed National award winning director Ravi Jadhav, has all the colours of celebration. The film celebrates the talent of street musicians who are god-gifted, but cannot pursue their dreams as they are trapped in their socio-economic conditions. This musical drama is set with the background of festivals depicting banjo as an integral part of people’s celebration. Ritesh Deshmukh (as Taraat) takes the centre stage with his gang and the hero of the film - the instrument 'Banjo', setting the energy quotient high in the opening of the film.
Plot of the film revolves around the musical journey of Taraat and his banjo group, who go through all the hardships and hurdles to make it big. Nargis Fakhri has a musical connection when it comes to her films, as she always remains the central chord of the musicians heart, be it Rockstar or in this case, Banjo. She plays a musician from New York who comes all the way to Mumbai in search of a banjo group. The film highlights the fact that an artist should be respected irrespective of his background, the place he comes from or his appearance and should be judged purely on the grounds of talent.
Ravi Jadhav never fails to impress us with his visual treatment, as his story telling is always knitted with metaphors and symbolism. Vishal-Shekhar’s music is pulsating as every song has built the emotional graph in the film. Right from the opening to the final crescendo, you will be addicted to the theme music of banjo. It is refreshing to see Ritesh in a never seen before character. The dialogues are catchy, which give a decent pace to the film. You leave the theatre feeling happy and content (at least I surely did), as you watch dreams being fulfilled.
Verdict: This is Riteish Deshmukh's musical treat all the way! Watch it.
Have you watched Banjo? Share your feedback with us in the comment box below or join the conversation on Twitter
Have you watched Banjo? Share your feedback with us in the comment box below or join the conversation on Twitter
MAC Vibe Tribe | Swatches, Review and Look
Okay! I confess. This post has been demanded by several readers and it was super delayed by some weeks. But, better late than never. MAC Cosmetics launched their exclusive Vibe Tribe range in around end of July / early August. Within a few days, most items were out of stock. I mean, just look at that packaging and colours. How can anyone resist? We were introduced to some products earlier last month. I must add that one of these products met with an unfortunate accident a day before this product shoot. A little kid made his way into my vanity area [when I was not around] and broke a few pieces of make up, including this Gleamtones Powder pan. Naturally, I was disappointed and very angry, but it didn't help as the damage was done. Fortunately, I had experienced the product well enough for this review. Now that I am done with the side story, here's what we think about the range.
What? - MAC Cosmetics Vibe Tribe range
Products: Gleamtones Powder, MAC Vibe Tribe lipstick
Price: $33 / Rs 2600 - MAC Gleamtones Powder
$18 - MAC Vibe Tribe Lipstick
Packaging: Gorgeous, to say the least! The entire range comes in an exclusive packaging, which has peach as it's base colour, with colourful aztec prints all over. A dash of blue here and a hint of coral there; the MAC vibe tribe range packaging is simply perfect. For most make up lovers, it was the packaging that scored a perfect 10, followed by other aspects of the product.
MAC Vibe Tribe Gleamtones Powder - Dunes at Dusk: A beautiful highlighter and bronzer, the MAC vibe tribe gleam tones powder comes with four blocks of shades - coral, tangerine, champagne and bronze, packed in an eye catching compact. Swirl the brush and blend those hues to get a nice sheen. Likewise, you can also use the shade / blend the shades that match your skin tone. Personally, I prefer blending the four shades together to achieve the perfect look. What I really like about this product is the fact that it serves as a highlighter palette, which helps especially when you've got an occasion where traveling is involved. Instead of carrying around multiple shades to get best results, the Gleamtones powder is all you need. For the price you pay, this is certainly a very good buy.
I have swatched three shades from the palette, which includes [L to R] champagne, peach / radiant coral and a cool fuchsia. Unfortunately, the bronze shade was completely damaged. Apologies for not being able to swatch it for you.
MAC Vibe Tribe Lipstick [Shade - Painted Sunset] - Most of you already know that I am a huge fan of bold lips. My vanity area is filled with a variety of bold hued lipsticks. I fell in love with this shade ever since it's launch and overtime, this has become one of my favourite lipsticks. The collection includes five shades, and this shade is one of them. Painted Sunset is a bright orange - red amplified lipstick, with a creamy finish that does not leave your lips feeling dry and glides on like a dream. Two swipes of this gorgeous colour and you are good to go for at least 4-5 hours. I swear by this shade on most gloomy days [it's been this way in Mumbai since sometime now]. Nothing like a gorgeous lipstick to uplift your mood and brighten up the day. Also, this is just the kind of a lipstick that you would wanna wear to Coachella. Hell Yeah!
So, here's the look I created using these two products. This was clicked on the last day of Lakmè Fashion Week W/F 2016, held in Mumbai last month. Here's how I created this look:
On my face: MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation in NC 40
MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation [for setting]
Eyes: MAC Liquid Eyeliner in Boot Black
Brows: MAC Eyebrows in Stylised
Lips: MAC Vibe Tribe - Painted Sunset
Highlighter: MAC Vibe Tribe Gleam Tones Powder [blending four shades]
Verdict: Beautiful packaging, good mix of colourful blushes, eye pencils, VFM worthy highlighter palette, fun nail lacquers and super pigmented lipsticks; the MAC vibe tribe range is everything that we could ask for, and more. This one's the perfect collector's delight!
Have you tried any product from this range? Let us know your feedback on Twitter.
Love,
The Dancebee
Here’s why we think Sleeping Ugly is cool! | Sofy Bodyfit Overnight
As a little kid, we have all been fed a healthy diet of picture perfect fairytales. The main protagonist would be an epitome of perfection. She would eat, work, dress up and even sleep so perfectly, that it would put most other girls in her kingdom to shame. But as we grew up, we realised that life is not a chapter out of our favourite fairytale. Life is a real struggle and being perfect all the time is close to impossible. No one is born perfect, so why should you live under the pressure of being perfect all the time? Even while sleeping, eh?
It gets crazy during periods. You maybe a stomach sleeper or someone who likes dozing off in the ‘marathon’ position. But, during those five days, everybody gets into the commando mode - Savdhaan! Well, ask yourself - Do you really want to disturb your sleeping pattern and position every month this way? Is it really worth it, in order to be all perfect and avoid staining sheets, to not enjoy a peaceful sleep? Let me break the bubble for you. Sleeping Ugly is cool and totally okay. By choosing the correct night pad, you can stretch, twist, turn and enjoy a good night’s sleep. Sleeping with your regular Day sanitary pad is not a really good idea (there is a reason it is referred to as a Day pad, right?) Night pads come with a wider back, which keeps you feeling fresh and comfortable and enjoy a good sleep. It helps, since no one likes a pad that keeps shifting here, there and everywhere, leading to leaks and a lot of inconvenience (plus, no sleep). We were recently introduced to the all new Sofy Bodyfit Overnight, and were challenged to swap our regular sanitary pad with the new launch, which is known to be one of India’s longest night pads. Challenges excite us, and reviewing new launches is part of our job. But, does the product live up to all that it promises? We got our team member - Neha, to try out the product. She shared her thoughts with us after her last period, and here’s a round up:
What? - Sofy Bodyfit Overnight (Sanitary Pad)
Price: Rs 79 (Pack of 5)
Available in: 350mm / XXL (Packs of 5 and 10) and 420mm / XXXL (Pack of 3)
What does it promise? - The napkin is specially designed for leakage protection at night. It is the longest pad available in India, thanks to the wider hip guard, that covers your panty from back and gives maximum coverage, thus preventing stains/leakage.
Packaging: Inside the main packet, each pad comes in a disposable cover, which makes it super easy to carry while traveling as well.
Our Experience: We tried the XXL pack (350mm) and were quite impressed with the wide hip-guard. It covers the panty well, especially from the back. This helps, especially those who twist and turn a lot during their sleep (our team member who tried the product is one of them) or those who doze off in any of these positions - starfish, sleep-fighter, crash-lander among others. These pads have a mild fragrance, which helps keeps the period odour away. The pad was thin, not too bulky. One thing that gives this product an edge above it’s competitors is the fact that the super adhesive (on both wings and side wings) ensure that the pad fits perfectly. Thanks to the super comfy dry cover, the pad did not cause any irritation or discomfort,. The product, armed with a double absorbent coat, does it’s job well (even on Day 2, when things literally lead to a blood bath), ensuring there is no leakage.
Verdict: The Sofy Bodyfit Overnight pad lives up to all the promises very well, at an affordable price. While major points are subject to an individual’s flow (that’s the case with every pad in the market), we think you should give this one a try, especially if you are bored of trying itchy sanitary pads with a plastic layer.
Have you tried the new Sofy Bodyfit Overnight? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below or Join the conversation on Twitter.
Love,
The Dancebee
The Body Shop Drops of Light Serum | Review
The market is filled with skin care products that promise skin brightening. While we prefer running away from any product that unnecessarily promotes 'fairness' and forces people to dream of changing their complexion overnight (can't we just be happy with what we've got?), we are fans of products that hydrate and nourish. Stuff that can take care of our skin from within, and prevent it from further damage. The Body Shop's latest offering - Drops of Light, is just that! We were recently introduced to the Pure and Healthy serum from this range. After trying out the product for a month, here's what we think about it!
What? - The Body Shop Drops of Light Serum
Quantity - 30ml
Price - 2450 INR
What does it promise? - A very lightweight serum that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it velvety soft and shine free. Clinically proven to reduce the number and intensity of dark spots.
How to use? - Apply 2 to 3 drops onto the face and neck and gently massage into skin every morning and evening before applying a cream
Main Ingredients - Brightening red algae extract and Vitamin C derivative
Packaging - The serum comes in a beautiful 30ml glass bottle, similar to their Oils of Life Intensely Revitalising Facial Oil. This too comes with a tightly fitted cap, that has a dropper to dispense the product. Only difference here is the colour. The Drops of Life serum is housed in an elegant all white bottle. It is easy to carry and does not spill. Since it is a glass bottle, you need to take good care while traveling.
Fragrance - Light and refreshing. The fragrance is not very strong, but is good enough to lift your spirits and keep you feeling fresh.
Texture: Extremely soft and smooth. The serum is not too thick or runny. It perfectly absorbs into your skin and feel super light weight. The moment you massage the serum on your face, you can feel the velvety soft texture of the product. Zero greasiness, so those with oily skin need not fret. The serum provides good hydration for people with dry skin. The soft texture does not irritate, and is good for those with sensitive skin.
Experience: The Body Shop Drops of Light is a great light-weight serum, that can be worn under a moisturiser as well as make up, without making you worry about any heavy residue. We tried using it every morning and night, after cleansing, and followed it up with a hydrating moisturiser. The weather hasn't been too kind, especially on our skin and hair. Thankfully, this serum did a good job of hydrating our facial skin well. Post application, it leaves the skin feeling velvety smooth. We also tried using it without a moisturiser and still, the results were great. For a shoot, the product was tried on before make up and it helped add a dewy glow, which looked lovely. Even otherwise, the product does do a good job at maintaining your natural complexion well and adds a subtle glow which looks great. While it also promises to reduce dark spots, we think we should give the product some more time to work its wonders in that department. Like we always believe, Rome wasn't built in a day. So, how can we force any product to deliver results (on damages done over time) in just a month? Overall, we are quite happy with our experience and the serum has definitely made its way into our list of favourite skin care products of 2016 (so far).
Pros:
Perfect texture
Pretty packaging
Affordable for the price, quantity, quality and shelf life
Does not irritate the skin
Great to wear under make up
Tight fitted cap with dropper, which is convenient and hygienic
Cons:
Glass bottle needs to be handled with care
Verdict: The Body Shop has certainly scored high with their latest offering. If you have been looking for a serum that is soft, light, absorbs well and does not burn a hole in your pocket, go buy the Drops of Light serum and you won't be disappointed.
Have you tried any product from the new Drops of Light range by The Body Shop? Let us know your thoughts by adding a comment or join the conversation on Twitter @priyaadivarekar
Love,
The Dancebee
Madaari | Film Review
After a super packed weekend, we finally (better late than never) caught up with Nishikant Kamat’s much awaited directorial venture - Madaari, during the week. While we expected the occupancy to be around below-average, we were quite happy to see afternoon shows running with close to 40% seats filled. After close to two weeks at the cinemas, the film has performed very well, with appreciation coming in from both the audience and the film fraternity.
Madaari tells the tale of a man in anguish, who seeks justice after losing almost everything in a disaster. It’s the fight of a common man against the corrupt system, that continues to plague the society at large. Although at first thought, one can’t help but mark the uncanny resemblances between A Wednesday and the sequences that unfold in Madaari, the latter shines out in it’s own way. The film attempts to give a much needed jolt to the citizens, forcing them to wake up and save the country from drowning in corruption, before it is too late. But at the core, Madaari is also a poignant father - son story, with some wonderful emotional moments that are bound to leave you teary eyed.
In case you are one of those who still haven’t seen the film, we give you reasons to do so this week:
Ensemble cast: Kamat is a pro at getting together the perfect cast in almost all his films. In Madaari, we are treated to some fine performances by Jimmy Shergill and Tushar Dalvi, among others. The minister’s son too performs very well.
The Plot: Most of us have taken to Twitter or discussed the way we have suffered setbacks due to the negligence of those in power. Madaari perfectly showcases the plight of the ‘aam aadmi’ and his constant struggle to avoid getting exploited by the corrupt. There are instances where you might go, “Hey! This has happened to me,” and then, go on to realise that it is no one else but ourselves to be blamed for the mess that we see around us. The story of this film is raw, real and relatable.
Cinematography: If we had to pick any one major technical highlight of the film, it has to be Avinash Arun’s cinematography. He makes even the most simple background look beautiful, while ensuring that we don’t lose focus from the characters on screen.
Irrfan Khan’s performance: Reserved the best for the last. Has Irrfan ever disappointed us? The actor, who continues to make India proud as a global artist, delivers a power packed performance. An act so flawless and natural, that it almost looks he isn’t acting at all! He puts his heart and soul to essay Nirmal Kumar and showcases a variety of different shades through his character, all in the same film. Safe to say that he is the driving force of Madaari, and the one who makes your trip to cinema hall to watch this film totally worth it!
Verdict: Madaari is beautifully inspiring, and deserves a watch, especially for the brilliance that is Irrfan Khan!
Have you seen the film? Do let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
Love,
The Dancebee
I have always believed in spreading happiness in the world - Varun Dhawan | Exclusive Interview
It’s a gloomy afternoon, as we head towards a suburban studio to meet the cast of Dishoom. While the pitter-patter of the rains continue, Varun Dhawan enters the room like a sunshine, packed with energy and enthusiasm for the long day ahead. The actor has been promoting his upcoming film non-stop, with multiple city tours and unique activities, which also included a training session with female journalists and a live stunt in Delhi. Despite a hectic schedule, he is enjoying every bit of these interactions with the media and fans. This, before he starts rehearsing and gets ready to fly to the U.S for his first world tour. After three successful releases last year, Varun is all set to thrill us with an action packed avatar in Dishoom. After a quick lunch, the actor, dressed in a casual outfit, his favourite trademark baseball cap and a big bright smile, settled down for a chat with Priya Adivarekar, to discuss all things cinema and lots more.
How did your prepare for your role, that of a Dubai based cop Junaid Ansari?
My character has a complete graph, going from a boy to man. He is based in Abu Dhabi and is not an Indian. Junaid is a rookie cop, who is not taken seriously, and as the film progresses, it shows how he rises to the occasion and solves a big case. A lot went into creating Junaid, because it is not easy to play a police officer. I really admire the military and armed forces in our country, and always go out of my way to ensure I speak to them or get a picture clicked whenever they ask for one. There is a lot of discipline required. I had to lose a little weight, because that’s the kind of a look that Rohit had visualised. He wanted John to have a super muscular physique, while he wanted me to be lean and agile. Rohit was very sure that he wanted the actor playing Junaid to look, behave and act a certain way. Since the film is based on a time period of 36 hours, there had to be a certain continuity. So, I used to cut my hair once in every three days and shave twice a day. I can’t explain how chikna I would end up looking (smiles). I also have a tan in the film, since the character is middle eastern.
Since you are playing a cop for the first time, did you meet any real-life cops to get your character right?
We shot with the CID of Abu Dhabi, which helped as I got to learn a lot about the nuances. I also learned a lot of techniques, like how an interrogation is done. I am also seen speaking Arabic, especially during the first half. So, I had to learn a little Arabic. There is also a lot of referencing to characters like Tintin, who is like this boy on a mission. Junaid is quite excited about being a part of the all the action and for him, it's like a discovery.
Was there anyone else in the running to play Junaid Ansari, or did Rohit always have you in mind while scripting the film?
Rohit penned the script and the casting began only after Sajid Nadiadwala (producer) came on board. Of course, being a brother, I always ask him if I could read the script. As a brother, I like doing that. So, when I read the script for Dishoom, I felt I could do a good job as Junaid Ansari and that’s why, I told him to consider me. He asked if I was sure about playing Junaid, and I promptly said yes. Honestly, I thought this would be the right time to play a character who is a rookie cop. I don’t think I can justify such characters after say, two or three years, because I will start looking older.
Junaid is a rookie cop, who is not taken seriously, and as the film progresses, it shows how he rises to the occasion and solves a big case.
How did Rohit toy with the idea of exploring a situation that involves a kidnapped Indian cricketer?
The film deals with the whole menace of match fixing, the bookies involved, the effect on cricket and how cricketers often get trapped. It opens a can of worms. Rohit has always been a fan of cricket, and the whole build up happened when there were attacks on cricketers (like the one on Sri Lankan cricketers in Pakistan). So, that's how the idea of Dishoom was born. If a top Indian cricketer went missing, how would the country react? Of course, the nation would go berserk. Let's face it! Security fears are all across the world and anything is possible. We have all seen how several countries have been attacked in the recent past. There have been some references to real life incidences, which you will relate to once you watch the film. Although Dishoom has it's share of light hearted moments, at it's core, it is a serious action thriller. The film is more than what meets the eye.
The Dishoom album is doing really well. But, is there a specific reason for only sticking to four songs?
Dishoom aims to re-define commercial cinema and we haven't conformed to the set rules of having a set number of songs or specific sequences. While we have 4 songs, the film will have only one. The special number (Jaaneman Aah) is also there for a reason, and it was a part of the script from day one. Parineeti (Chopra) plays a cameo, and it is a small, but important character. But, it is only Sau Tarah ke that you will see during the duration of the film.
You have performed some daredevil stunts for Dishoom, one of which includes the helicopter sequence. What was going on in your mind while hanging out of it?
Let’s face it, both John and I were a little scared. If you take anyone up that high, a little bit of fear and nervousness definitely kicks in. It’s natural. In fact, I wasn’t showing my fear because I thought John was scared and vice versa (laughs). But, I think there was more pressure on John, because he was focusing on getting it done perfectly with me, and ensuring that none of us get injured. Before we kicked off that sequence, he got a call from my Dad who told him to take care of himself and me. So, he was worried, since it was not just about his own, but also the co-actor’s (Varun) safety. But, the sequence looks very cool! There is a scene where John is hanging off the helicopter, and I am hanging from his hand. And let me tell you this, we have got all this done by ourselves. As soon as we finished, John was like, “Kaisa hain? Theek hain?” I was in a dilemma. How do I tell him? Everything was so surreal. In fact, when the helicopter was flying over a waterbody, I could clearly see the fish inside. It was a beautiful experience, and I must add that I felt safe because I performed these stunts with John.
Did your father often call to check on you, considering you were performing a lot of stunts.
Like any other caring Dad, he would often call, but he won't call me more than 2-3 times because he knows I would get upset or irritated. But, I know he keeps calling people around me. So, he ends up calling my driver or manager to check if I have eaten, or where I am going (laughs). Even during the helicopter sequence, I knew he had stressed out John, because he kept asking me if I was okay. It was only later that John informed me about Dad's call. That call pressurised John more than the stunt, I am sure (laughs).
Dishoom aims to re-define commercial cinema and we haven't conformed to the set rules of having a set number of songs or specific sequences.
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| Image Credit: Stardust Magazine |
Actors often confess that they either feel too comfortable or pressurised while working with someone from their family. You have earlier worked with your father (David Dhawan), and now your brother. How would you describe your experience?
While working on Main Tera Hero, there was a lot of pressure, since it was just my second film. But during Dishoom, I definitely felt a little more confident. Having said that, it is important to understand that when someone knows you well, they also know how much they can push you. And in Dishoom, Rohit has really pushed me to get everything right. Everyday, Rohit would keep telling me that I am not Varun but Junaid Ansari. It came to a point where we would not interact after pack up. We didn't speak for almost 40 days, and post pack up, we would just go our own ways. That's because I had to be Junaid Ansari and believe that I am from Abu Dhabi, speak a particular language, get the dialect right and behave a certain way. That process wasn't easy, and I took some time to get into the flow of things.
How would you compare your father and brother as directors?
Honestly, it is very difficult to compare them. My father has a legacy in creating entertaining films, while Rohit is a complete task master. He has studied the art in NYU and later, assisted Farhan Akhtar. So that way, Rohit always has a planned process while working on a film. A lot of prep happens before we go on the sets.
You bonded quite well with John. How was it working and 'working out' with him?
Since we had to do a few sequences where both of us flaunt our bodies, both John and I were very serious about getting it right. Some of these sequences were important. So, post pack up, we would work out together. Also, let’s admit it, if you want a gym partner who can help train you well, then who wouldn’t want it to be John Abraham? And luckily, he was there! I would just request him to train me and he did. For the last 20 days, he completely trained me, from working on my form to helping me to getting my technique right.
Rohit would keep telling me that I am not Varun but Junaid Ansari. It came to a point where we would not interact after pack up
Twitter Fan Question
Is there any one who influences your versatility as a dancer?
I am a big fan of Chris Brown. I have been following him ever since he started off. As far as someone's influence is concerned, I feel all actors dance really well. All our Bollywood stars have been great dancers. I have grown up watching Govinda dance on screen and I personally believe that no one can get the kind of finesse that he has. But when it comes to versatility, I feel Chris Brown is someone who does a variety of different styles, ranging from krumping, house among others. And most of those styles are now coming back.
And you have brought out that versatility in all your songs featured in Dishoom as well.
Oh yes! (smiles) If you watch Toh Dishoom, you will notice that I have done a lot of old school house and krumping. Even the choreography in Sau Tarah Ke cannot be defined as typical Bollywood. It is Jaaneman Aah where I have gone completely filmy, with all the thumkas and moves that define Bollywood dance, since it caters to a specific section of the audience. So with the choreography in Dishoom, the idea was to have that kind of a versatility. Since I like experimenting with dance styles, it's amazing how I got a chance to perform different forms in each song.
As an actor, have you ever felt pressurised by box office numbers or this whole craze to become a part of the 100 crore club?
I am of the opinion that one should not compare their success to that of other people. For me, if Dishoom is liked by the audience and if they thoroughly enjoy it, I would consider that as a huge success. It would be a victory for me if someone comes up and feels that my performance was different than what I have done in the past.
I am of the opinion that one should not compare their success to that of other people.
Are you looking forward to working on a character on the lines of what you essayed in Badlapur, again?
Scripts like that are rare. Honestly, Badlapur wouldn't have been what it was, if it wasn't for Sriram Raghavan and I was lucky that he was directing it. If a film like that is not made properly, it can get a totally different reaction. It is more difficult to get a well written serious script. Because if the emotions don't come across, there is nothing else that can save the film or the actor.
How is Badrinath Ki Dulhania shaping up? Also, will the franchise continue to have you in the lead?
Pretty good ya! I am just keeping my fingers crossed that it all goes well. We have completed shooting 30 per cent of the film. Rest of the film will be shot, once we are back from the Dream Team tour, which is scheduled next month. And yes, I think that's the plan. Not just me, but also Alia, Shashank and even the DOP (Neha Matiyani) is the same. Several assistant directors working on the film are also the same. So, it's actually like working together as a family.
Most of your characters have always been full of life, energetic and fun. Are you a lot like what you have portrayed on screen in most of your films?
I would say I am moody, like most other human beings. I have my days when I am super happy, and some when I feel down or sad. So, it depends! That's how most people are. Sometimes, even the most serious person will crack a joke at some point in his life. But, I have always believed in spreading happiness in the world. The world definitely needs it.
Love,
The Dancebee
