A clinical psychologist with a roaring practice in the upmarket suburb of Bandra in Mumbai shuts down everything to pursue his passion for acting. Sounds unbelievable?
But that is what has happened in the case of Uma Shanker, the actor identified to play Yudhisthir in Ekta Kapoor's Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki.
A student of the National School of Drama, New Delhi, the actor spent some time chatting with Srabanti Chakrabarti just before the serial went on air. Excerpts:
Also Read: 'I will defintely be compared to Rupa Ganguly'
How did a clinical psychologist land into the glamour world?
I am originally from Uttaranchal and have always been interested in acting. In 1999, I did a one-and-half year course on acting from National School of Drama and landed in Mumbai to make a career in acting in 2001. Unfortunately, nothing really clicked for me on the films' front. That's when I started acting in commercials.
Though my ads became really popular, my film career was not taking off. I decided to call it quits and go back to my original profession -- clinical psychology. I opened my chamber in Bandra and started treating people. I also started taking up consulting assignments in the area of psychology. Currently, I am a consultant.
How did you get selected for the coveted role of Yudhisthir?
Though I had called it quits some time back, the passion for acting was burning inside me. Thus, when I read in the newspapers that Ekta was looking for actors for Mahabhaarat, I went for the audition. After an initial audition, the creative team there offered me two small roles -- Chintrangad and Parashuram. I politely declined since I was looking for a bigger role. Some days later, I got a call from them informing me that I had been identified for the role of Dharmaraj Yudhisthir.
How did you prepare yourself for the role?
After I got selected, I started researching on the role. One of the biggest doubts that I had was why do people call him Dharmaraj as he was a man who sold his wife. I started reading everything on the epic that I could get my hands on and finally got to know that one of biggest hallmarks of a Kshatriya is to accept challenge and Yudhisthir did that even during the game of pasha.
How was your look modified for the role?
When I decided to act in serials, I made up my mind not to do saas bahu soaps or mythological shows. One of the main reasons being the costumes and looks associated with these shows. However, when I got to know the way they were handling the looks in Ekta's Mahabharat, my idea changed completely.
Manish Malhotra (fashion designer for Mahabhaarat) has changed the concept of designing costumes for epics completely. The characters in this show don't wear gaudy jewellery or colourful dhotis. The outfits are very new and will be a welcome change from the usual ones. My look has also undergone a change for this serial. You will see me sporting a beard!
How was the experience shooting for Mahabhaarat?
I am just back from a shooting schedule in Jaipur. It was a fascinating experience working with Mr Shantaram, the director of the show. Ekta's attention to detail is also mindblowing. Before every scene, she would come up to me and brief me on the scene and the character, and how to enact the scene.
How do you think this version of Mahabharat will be different from the old one?
The story will be the same -- how can one change the story of an epic? But the look and feel of the show has changed completely.
Catch Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki every Monday to Thursday on 9X at 9 pm.
Friday, July 18, 2008
REVIEW: Ekta's Mahabhaarat
Our take on what's hot and what's not on television!
So just what can you expect when Ekta Kapoor decides to make a serial out of the epic called The Mahabharata? Jump cuts, freeze frames, flowing sarees and what have you… it's all there.
Well, the 'K' Queen's new epic daily Kahaani Hamaaray Mahabharat Ki (Monday-Thursday 9 pm on 9X) finally took off. Quite unlike BR Chopra's version, this one starts off from the draupadi vastraharan episode, which many say was the root cause of the epic bloodbath. [ALSO READ: Sallu brings out the best in Aamir]
Draupadi screaming, protesting, cursing, Yudishtir looking every bit a broken man after losing everything in the game of dice, Bheem clutching his mace, Arjun his bow and arrow, Bheeshma clenching his fists and the blind emperor Dhritarashtra clenching his fists in agony. This is pretty much how we are introduced to the epic characters.
Also as a marked departure from tradition, in the place of the Hastinapur courtroom where the action is said to have taken place, Ekta gets her actors out in the open with wild winds blowing away the flowing robes and locks.
The actors
A new actor plays Yuddhishtir, the eldest of the Pandavas. It probably would be too early to comment on the actor's acting capabilities since he had no dialogues in the episode.
Aryan Vaid plays Duryodhan, the eldest of the Kauravas (and first cousin to the Pandavas) and quite looks the part he plays. And even though he doesn't talk much, his brother (and sidekick) Dusashan does all the yelling for his brother. Nonetheless he does have a convincing screen presence.
Now for the most important character - Draupadi who is introduced in signature Ekta style. Her free flowing red saree reminds us of Prerna's flowing red dupatta in Kasautii Zindagi Kay. Anita Hasanandani as Draupadi is good with her histrionics but fails to strike the right chord with her shrill voice. The incessant screeching, the glycerine eyes are tad too much to handle.
So just what can you expect when Ekta Kapoor decides to make a serial out of the epic called The Mahabharata? Jump cuts, freeze frames, flowing sarees and what have you… it's all there.
Well, the 'K' Queen's new epic daily Kahaani Hamaaray Mahabharat Ki (Monday-Thursday 9 pm on 9X) finally took off. Quite unlike BR Chopra's version, this one starts off from the draupadi vastraharan episode, which many say was the root cause of the epic bloodbath. [ALSO READ: Sallu brings out the best in Aamir]
Draupadi screaming, protesting, cursing, Yudishtir looking every bit a broken man after losing everything in the game of dice, Bheem clutching his mace, Arjun his bow and arrow, Bheeshma clenching his fists and the blind emperor Dhritarashtra clenching his fists in agony. This is pretty much how we are introduced to the epic characters.
Also as a marked departure from tradition, in the place of the Hastinapur courtroom where the action is said to have taken place, Ekta gets her actors out in the open with wild winds blowing away the flowing robes and locks.
The actors
A new actor plays Yuddhishtir, the eldest of the Pandavas. It probably would be too early to comment on the actor's acting capabilities since he had no dialogues in the episode.
Aryan Vaid plays Duryodhan, the eldest of the Kauravas (and first cousin to the Pandavas) and quite looks the part he plays. And even though he doesn't talk much, his brother (and sidekick) Dusashan does all the yelling for his brother. Nonetheless he does have a convincing screen presence.
Now for the most important character - Draupadi who is introduced in signature Ekta style. Her free flowing red saree reminds us of Prerna's flowing red dupatta in Kasautii Zindagi Kay. Anita Hasanandani as Draupadi is good with her histrionics but fails to strike the right chord with her shrill voice. The incessant screeching, the glycerine eyes are tad too much to handle.
Ekta’s pilgrimage continues!
To propitiate the gods – and perhaps seek their aid to boost the TRPs – Ekta Kapoor has embarked on a tour of different temples in the country as she inched closer to the premiere of her most costly television soap to date. Industry insiders describe Ekta as an ‘extremely religious and superstitious’ person when it comes to her productions.
Apart from naming all her serials and films with a ‘K’, Ekta reportedly put forward hundreds of kundalis to her astrologer to zoom in on the baby who will essay the role of Krishna in the aforementioned soap, Kahaani Hamaray Mahabharat Ki.
It is already known that every year, Ekta makes a trip to the Balaji temple, to offer pujas. This year however, she has gone there several times. Says a source close to Ekta, “She named her company after ‘Him’ (Balaji) and wants to keep her favourite god happy at this time.”
Besides doing the rounds of the Siddhivinayak Temple, she has already been to the Dagdu Seth Ganesh temple in Pune. Sources say that the Ganesha idol that will feature in the show will resemble the idol at Dagdu Seth Ganesh.
Ekta has an envious collection of Ganesha idols at her home and office. “Yes, I have just come back from Tirupati temple and I am now in Pune to pay a visit to Dagdu Seth Ganpati. Dagdu Sethji is so great that I actually wanted to make our Ganpati (idol) in the show exactly like him. But, that’s a patented idol, so we have tweaked the look a little. I am very sure it will bring good luck to the show,” Ekta said.
Ekta says that she wanted to visit the Jagannath temple in Puri. However, by the time this article comes out, she would have a made a round at the Mahalaxmi temple in Kolhapur. “This year, due to a tight schedule, I could not make it to Puri. But I am told that Mahalaxmi (in Kolhapur) makes all your wishes come true. So, I am on my way to the temple to seek Her blessings,” she added.
Ekta says that since her show is about gods and goddesses, it will be religious in nature. “It’s our greatest epic and all the gods are there (in the soap) as characters. Obviously, it would be devotional in nature. Otherwise the show can’t meet with success. Being religious, it will have the true bhakti bhaav,” she stresses.
The all new hi-tech Mahabharat
TV tycoon Ekta Kapoor's Kahani Hamare Mahabharat Ki scheduled to go air Monday night on 9X, is already the talk of the town for its array of TV stars, designer costumes and spectacular sets, but it remains to be seen whether it will match the standards of B.R. Chopra's version of the mythological drama.
Suraj Rao, creative head of the show, refutes the perception that the mega epic has lost its sheen and appeal only because of the renewed look given to it.
"Mahabharat has its own inherent dialogues, which are being offered in a new package. It is an altogether new Mahabharat that has never been shown on television. But the spirit of the epic remains the same," Rao said on phone from Mumbai.
Big names from small screen like Ronit Roy, Chetan Hansraj, Sakshi Tanwar, Hiten Tejwani and Kiran Karmarkar play pivotal roles in the show.
Bollywood's ace fashion designer Manish Malhotra has designed the costumes for the stars. The sets and actions have been digitally enhanced to give a new-age look to the show based on the epic.
Amar Shetty, action director of the show, said: "This Mahabharatis completely hi-tech and based on the favouritism of people in this tech-savvy world. People's perception has changed now. Movies like Krrish have earned great business due to their visual effects and the digital technology they have used. We have tried to add a different flavour to the epic."
The serial has been shot at different locations to bring about a unique background effect so that they appeal to viewers.
"We went on varied locations according to the demand of the scenes. All the romantic scenes between Shantanu and Ganga have been shot in Ladakh and whenever we were required to show summer scenes we shot them at Jaipur," explained Rao.
Many see a strong possibility of the technological aspect of the show overshadowing the content, but Rao doesn't feel so.
He said: "We are just bringing the show in a new package to the public keeping the drama in its original form."
Ever since Ekta's version of Mahabharatwas announced, people have been wondering whether or not the new version will be able to recreate the same magic that B.R. Chopra did.
Since the latter had left an indelible mark in the minds of the audience, it seems difficult for the new show to gain high television rating points.
Mukesh Khanna, who essayed the role of Bheeshma Pitamah in Chopra's version, says that whatever digital technology might be used in the new version of Mahabharat, actors would find it difficult to match the standard of dialogue delivery.
"We used to work from 7 a.m. till late night to perfect each shot and dialogue. In today's hectic schedule, it is not possible for anyone, not even me, to devote so much time to a single project," Mukesh explained.
Suraj Rao, creative head of the show, refutes the perception that the mega epic has lost its sheen and appeal only because of the renewed look given to it.
"Mahabharat has its own inherent dialogues, which are being offered in a new package. It is an altogether new Mahabharat that has never been shown on television. But the spirit of the epic remains the same," Rao said on phone from Mumbai.
Big names from small screen like Ronit Roy, Chetan Hansraj, Sakshi Tanwar, Hiten Tejwani and Kiran Karmarkar play pivotal roles in the show.
Bollywood's ace fashion designer Manish Malhotra has designed the costumes for the stars. The sets and actions have been digitally enhanced to give a new-age look to the show based on the epic.
Amar Shetty, action director of the show, said: "This Mahabharatis completely hi-tech and based on the favouritism of people in this tech-savvy world. People's perception has changed now. Movies like Krrish have earned great business due to their visual effects and the digital technology they have used. We have tried to add a different flavour to the epic."
The serial has been shot at different locations to bring about a unique background effect so that they appeal to viewers.
"We went on varied locations according to the demand of the scenes. All the romantic scenes between Shantanu and Ganga have been shot in Ladakh and whenever we were required to show summer scenes we shot them at Jaipur," explained Rao.
Many see a strong possibility of the technological aspect of the show overshadowing the content, but Rao doesn't feel so.
He said: "We are just bringing the show in a new package to the public keeping the drama in its original form."
Ever since Ekta's version of Mahabharatwas announced, people have been wondering whether or not the new version will be able to recreate the same magic that B.R. Chopra did.
Since the latter had left an indelible mark in the minds of the audience, it seems difficult for the new show to gain high television rating points.
Mukesh Khanna, who essayed the role of Bheeshma Pitamah in Chopra's version, says that whatever digital technology might be used in the new version of Mahabharat, actors would find it difficult to match the standard of dialogue delivery.
"We used to work from 7 a.m. till late night to perfect each shot and dialogue. In today's hectic schedule, it is not possible for anyone, not even me, to devote so much time to a single project," Mukesh explained.
K for Kishore Kumar
This was an evening dedicated to ‘K’... no, it wasn’t a party hosted by the superstitious Ekta Kapoor for her string of ‘K’ serials.
It was in fact, a musical evening in honour of singer Kishore Kumar, a special tribute to the legendary singer and comic actor.
There were a mix of singers and musicians present at the occasion, right from veteran singer Shabbir Kumar to the younger lot including music director duo Sanjeev-Darshan, Bali Brahmbhatt and Babul Supriyo, all of who sung along with Navin Rathod. Babul and Navin even put up an impromptu dance act. Adding to the entertainment was the fact that Navin sung all the songs in different get-ups... including that of a girl!
Actress Amita Nangia and comedian Sunil Pal who came with his wife, were among the Kishoreda lovers present that evening, who enjoyed a memorable sing-song affair. With a voice like that, the legend and the songs will live on...
It was in fact, a musical evening in honour of singer Kishore Kumar, a special tribute to the legendary singer and comic actor.
There were a mix of singers and musicians present at the occasion, right from veteran singer Shabbir Kumar to the younger lot including music director duo Sanjeev-Darshan, Bali Brahmbhatt and Babul Supriyo, all of who sung along with Navin Rathod. Babul and Navin even put up an impromptu dance act. Adding to the entertainment was the fact that Navin sung all the songs in different get-ups... including that of a girl!
Actress Amita Nangia and comedian Sunil Pal who came with his wife, were among the Kishoreda lovers present that evening, who enjoyed a memorable sing-song affair. With a voice like that, the legend and the songs will live on...
Are you looking forward to Ekta's Mahabharat?
Some of us watched B R Chopra's epic show, Mahabharat, and loved it. Now, Ekta Kapoor will show us a new and improved version of the epic, called, Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki.
The serial stars some of the hottest and most popular actors on television currently, like Ronit Roy, Saakshi Tanwar, Chetan Hansraj, Anita Hassanandani, Rakshanda Khan and Jatin Shah, among others.
The look of the serial is very interesting, with Manish Malhotra doing a grand job on the costumes.
Are you looking forward to watching Ekta Kapoor's Mahaabhaarat, which premieres today, July 7? Have you reserved the 9 pm slot this week for this show?
The serial stars some of the hottest and most popular actors on television currently, like Ronit Roy, Saakshi Tanwar, Chetan Hansraj, Anita Hassanandani, Rakshanda Khan and Jatin Shah, among others.
The look of the serial is very interesting, with Manish Malhotra doing a grand job on the costumes.
Are you looking forward to watching Ekta Kapoor's Mahaabhaarat, which premieres today, July 7? Have you reserved the 9 pm slot this week for this show?
Reality show performers are the gladiators exposed to the lions: Mahesh Bhatt
Mahesh Bhatt would yet again be seen judging an upcoming reality show Kabhi Kabhi Pyaar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar, presented by Ekta Kapoor. The yesteryears’ veteran director talks about this new dance based reality show and also speak out the controversies associated with these kinds of shows.
. What is the reason behind you judging this reality show?
A. First of all, India is a country of youngsters. We, after getting into a big position, start getting detached from our younger generations. So when these kinds of reality shows come and we see the youngsters showing their talents, there forms a kind of relation and connection with them.
Q. As a director what is your point of view on dance based reality shows?
A. Dancing and choreographing are both similar because dancing is a part of choreography. But the basic connection between them is the space and the chemistry between the two persons and until they perform well as a team, connecting to each other, the performance always looks bad. So my role will be to see and build the connectivity between the two persons.
Q. What will be your take away from the show?
A. My take away would be an exposure to 7 to 8 days of spears competition between the young television stars who have made their mark with their work in television. I think we can’t remain wrapped up only with the world of cinema but will have to connect with the people of this country which is not more easily accessible. Television is the best medium of mass communication. I do not want to leave this very powerful root of communication.
Q. Reality shows are always under scanner of controversies, what is your take on it?
A. Something has to be understood and since it connects with the taste buds of the consumer it is in finding repetition in all kinds of media. I think the lines between the performer and the audience is not getting less. People want access into your life and the world has already become a wider place and they want to see what is going on in your life all the time. So I think these reality shows are catering to the widest need which is common in mass.
Q. Don’t you think that everything is not real in reality shows?
A. Yes. There is a time structure which is not real and everyone is aware of it. But anything that is edited ceases to be real.
Q. What is entertainment then?
A. Entertainment is illusion. We are not into reality capturing business at all. We are marketing the illusion of it.
Q. Do film making and judging a reality show offer the same experience?
A. When you are making a serial you are in the process of giving instructions to the artists and the juniors, same is the way that you follow while making films. So there is no such radical difference between the set of television reality shows and imaginative set of films.
Q. It can’t be denied that television is getting bigger but do you think it is getting better?
A. It is very hard to describe what is getting better. Everything is dependant on audience and their changing point of views. It has frozen to the reference of the by gone days and even creators are alarmed by what audience want from television. There is a young India where 55% of it is under 35 years. Somehow what is expected by the mass has been getting respectability. Today Akshay Kumar has earned a respect for himself in every one’s eyes because he delivers in numbers. So the references of your culture have changed. What is commercially viable is respectable. I have no reason to sit down and pass judgment. You can’t argue with success.
Q. How different is the show Kabhi Kabhi Pyaar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar from other reality shows?
A. The concept is the body of the show. I think that this is a medium which appeals to the cave man. The world has now become an Amphi-theater where you are the spectator and these reality show performers are the gladiators exposed to the lions. And the kind is sitting up there watching and enjoying grapes (laughs).
Q. Will you direct anything for the small screen?
A. No, I don’t think so. But I have done that years ago by making the serial called Swabhimaan. It was 1200 episodes so I have had my belly dose and nothing else now. I think it is too alien domain for us.
Q. Why is it said that television stars cannot make it big with films?
A. Watch Shah Rukh Khan.
. What is the reason behind you judging this reality show?
A. First of all, India is a country of youngsters. We, after getting into a big position, start getting detached from our younger generations. So when these kinds of reality shows come and we see the youngsters showing their talents, there forms a kind of relation and connection with them.
Q. As a director what is your point of view on dance based reality shows?
A. Dancing and choreographing are both similar because dancing is a part of choreography. But the basic connection between them is the space and the chemistry between the two persons and until they perform well as a team, connecting to each other, the performance always looks bad. So my role will be to see and build the connectivity between the two persons.
Q. What will be your take away from the show?
A. My take away would be an exposure to 7 to 8 days of spears competition between the young television stars who have made their mark with their work in television. I think we can’t remain wrapped up only with the world of cinema but will have to connect with the people of this country which is not more easily accessible. Television is the best medium of mass communication. I do not want to leave this very powerful root of communication.
Q. Reality shows are always under scanner of controversies, what is your take on it?
A. Something has to be understood and since it connects with the taste buds of the consumer it is in finding repetition in all kinds of media. I think the lines between the performer and the audience is not getting less. People want access into your life and the world has already become a wider place and they want to see what is going on in your life all the time. So I think these reality shows are catering to the widest need which is common in mass.
Q. Don’t you think that everything is not real in reality shows?
A. Yes. There is a time structure which is not real and everyone is aware of it. But anything that is edited ceases to be real.
Q. What is entertainment then?
A. Entertainment is illusion. We are not into reality capturing business at all. We are marketing the illusion of it.
Q. Do film making and judging a reality show offer the same experience?
A. When you are making a serial you are in the process of giving instructions to the artists and the juniors, same is the way that you follow while making films. So there is no such radical difference between the set of television reality shows and imaginative set of films.
Q. It can’t be denied that television is getting bigger but do you think it is getting better?
A. It is very hard to describe what is getting better. Everything is dependant on audience and their changing point of views. It has frozen to the reference of the by gone days and even creators are alarmed by what audience want from television. There is a young India where 55% of it is under 35 years. Somehow what is expected by the mass has been getting respectability. Today Akshay Kumar has earned a respect for himself in every one’s eyes because he delivers in numbers. So the references of your culture have changed. What is commercially viable is respectable. I have no reason to sit down and pass judgment. You can’t argue with success.
Q. How different is the show Kabhi Kabhi Pyaar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar from other reality shows?
A. The concept is the body of the show. I think that this is a medium which appeals to the cave man. The world has now become an Amphi-theater where you are the spectator and these reality show performers are the gladiators exposed to the lions. And the kind is sitting up there watching and enjoying grapes (laughs).
Q. Will you direct anything for the small screen?
A. No, I don’t think so. But I have done that years ago by making the serial called Swabhimaan. It was 1200 episodes so I have had my belly dose and nothing else now. I think it is too alien domain for us.
Q. Why is it said that television stars cannot make it big with films?
A. Watch Shah Rukh Khan.
'I loved playing Ganga'--- parvati.......Saakshi Tanwar
Saakshi Tanwar, who is best known for her role of Parvati in the popular Kaahani Ghar Ghar Ki, has a lot in her kitty, starting with her role as Ganga in the mythological serial Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki.
Earlier too, Saakshi played a spiritually inclined woman with a strong connection to goddess Durga in the serial Devi. The actress will also be seen in a few movies later in the year like Coffee House and Ekta Kapoor's [Images] film C Kompany.
Rajul Hegde caught up with the busy actress to know more about Ganga.
How was the experience of playing Ganga?
It was a wonderful experience. Something I will always cherish. The aura and the mystique surrounding Ganga is what made the character such a challenge to portray. A short yet powerful role, I loved playing Ganga.
How much do you know about Ganga?
My basic knowledge about Ganga was acquired from whatever I had seen in B R Chopra's Mahabharat. I was a big fan of the show and watched it religiously. But I was amazed to know that in our mythology there are so many other stories about Ganga apart from Mahabarat. All this was very enriching for me.
What kind of research have you done for this character?
I was given detailed narrations about the character and then I just followed my instinct to portray it.
Let's talk about your look and costume.
Ekta [producer] knew exactly how she wanted Ganga to look like. I appeared for a 'look' test with Bharat and Dorris. It was instantly approved. My costume has been designed by Manish Malhotra, who has always performed magic for me. He made me look like a dream. That's the response I got from everyone, who saw the hoardings and promos.
How long you have been shooting for this show?
I shot for just 10-12 days, as it is a brief role.
How has the experience been so far?
I really enjoyed shooting for Mahabharat. With every different show, an actor learns and grows as a performer, and the same has been with me on Mahabharat. The canvas on which it was shot was huge -- the sets, the costumes, treatment of scenes -- the entire feel was so mesmerising.
It was reported that you fell sick during the shooting. What happened?
Nothing much. It was just a little acclimatisation problem in Ladakh due to lack of oxygen. I was fine in a couple of hours and resumed shooting the next day as scheduled.
After that, you didn't resume shooting for sometime. Are you trying to work harder now to keep episode bank?
Not really, since my role as Ganga was very brief and everything was managed very well.
How was it to share screen space again with Kiran Karmarkar who play's Shantanu, your husband?
Having worked with Kiran for the last many years, there is a comfort level and a great on-screen rapport which helped both of us in portraying our respective roles with so much ease.
What is the kind of response you have got from people, who have already seen it?
Well, everyone who has seen it liked the look of my character. Now the performance remains to be judged. I have my fingers crossed.
Are you working hard because the show is being aired before the scheduled time?
My work was done even before the telecast date was decided so there are no pressures on that end.
Will you be able to evoke the same kind respect which you got for playing Parvati?
I have performed with full earnestness, honesty and 100 per cent dedication. Now it's for the viewers to decide. It's their verdict that finally counts.
Does it mean that you will be seen less as Parvati in Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki?
(Laughs) No, I am still there in 14 out of 15 scenes in Kahaani.
What next?
I have recently done a film directed by Gurbir Grewal titled Coffee House opposite Ashutosh Rana [Images]. I also have a comic cameo in Balaji Motion Pictures film C Kompany directed by Sachin Yardi. As an actor, I am always greedy for good roles. So far, I have been lucky to play strong and powerful roles on television. Now, I am looking at doing good cinema.
Catch Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki every Monday to Thursday on 9X at 9 pm.
Earlier too, Saakshi played a spiritually inclined woman with a strong connection to goddess Durga in the serial Devi. The actress will also be seen in a few movies later in the year like Coffee House and Ekta Kapoor's [Images] film C Kompany.
Rajul Hegde caught up with the busy actress to know more about Ganga.
How was the experience of playing Ganga?
It was a wonderful experience. Something I will always cherish. The aura and the mystique surrounding Ganga is what made the character such a challenge to portray. A short yet powerful role, I loved playing Ganga.
How much do you know about Ganga?
My basic knowledge about Ganga was acquired from whatever I had seen in B R Chopra's Mahabharat. I was a big fan of the show and watched it religiously. But I was amazed to know that in our mythology there are so many other stories about Ganga apart from Mahabarat. All this was very enriching for me.
What kind of research have you done for this character?
I was given detailed narrations about the character and then I just followed my instinct to portray it.
Let's talk about your look and costume.
Ekta [producer] knew exactly how she wanted Ganga to look like. I appeared for a 'look' test with Bharat and Dorris. It was instantly approved. My costume has been designed by Manish Malhotra, who has always performed magic for me. He made me look like a dream. That's the response I got from everyone, who saw the hoardings and promos.
How long you have been shooting for this show?
I shot for just 10-12 days, as it is a brief role.
How has the experience been so far?
I really enjoyed shooting for Mahabharat. With every different show, an actor learns and grows as a performer, and the same has been with me on Mahabharat. The canvas on which it was shot was huge -- the sets, the costumes, treatment of scenes -- the entire feel was so mesmerising.
It was reported that you fell sick during the shooting. What happened?
Nothing much. It was just a little acclimatisation problem in Ladakh due to lack of oxygen. I was fine in a couple of hours and resumed shooting the next day as scheduled.
After that, you didn't resume shooting for sometime. Are you trying to work harder now to keep episode bank?
Not really, since my role as Ganga was very brief and everything was managed very well.
How was it to share screen space again with Kiran Karmarkar who play's Shantanu, your husband?
Having worked with Kiran for the last many years, there is a comfort level and a great on-screen rapport which helped both of us in portraying our respective roles with so much ease.
What is the kind of response you have got from people, who have already seen it?
Well, everyone who has seen it liked the look of my character. Now the performance remains to be judged. I have my fingers crossed.
Are you working hard because the show is being aired before the scheduled time?
My work was done even before the telecast date was decided so there are no pressures on that end.
Will you be able to evoke the same kind respect which you got for playing Parvati?
I have performed with full earnestness, honesty and 100 per cent dedication. Now it's for the viewers to decide. It's their verdict that finally counts.
Does it mean that you will be seen less as Parvati in Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki?
(Laughs) No, I am still there in 14 out of 15 scenes in Kahaani.
What next?
I have recently done a film directed by Gurbir Grewal titled Coffee House opposite Ashutosh Rana [Images]. I also have a comic cameo in Balaji Motion Pictures film C Kompany directed by Sachin Yardi. As an actor, I am always greedy for good roles. So far, I have been lucky to play strong and powerful roles on television. Now, I am looking at doing good cinema.
Catch Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki every Monday to Thursday on 9X at 9 pm.
The boys are looking hot in Mahabharat'
Rakshanda Khan entered our homes and hearts with her spicy characters like Tanya in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Mallika in Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin.
Now, the actress will be seen in a different avatar in Ekta Kapoor's [Images] Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki.
She talks to Rajul Hegde about her character Amba in the mythological show.
What made you take up Mahabharat?
I got a chance to act in a mythological show, which doesn't come one's way often. I am doing a cameo for three episodes.
I liked the character of Amba because it has tremendous potential. Mahabharat started because of two women, Draupadi and Amba.
Amba wanted to marry Bhishma after King Shalva and King Vichitravirya rejected her proposal, but due to his oath to remain a bachelor throughout his life, he couldn't marry Amba. So she held him responsible for her plight and wished to take vengeance by killing him.
You have a glamorous image. Why take up a mythological show now?
As an actor, we should try different kinds of roles. Doing a mythological will add to my portfolio and help me mature as an actor.
Tell us about the costumes in the show.
Grand is the only word I can use to describe everything. Balaji Telefilms [Get Quote] has not shot any of its shows on such a grand scale on television before.
The boys are looking really hot and stunning in Manish Malhotra's desgined costumes. He has given the characters of Mahabharat a modern look, keeping traditions in mind. I have really not worked with many women on this show, but their costumes are also awesome.
Were you offered Amba, or did you choose to play her?
The creative team had thought of one or two other characters too but Ekta Kapoor felt this role suited me better. I liked the character of Amba because she is a strong woman. It's worth doing this role.
What kind of homework did you do for this character?
I have not read the Mahabharat. But as a kid, I religiously watched it on television. Ronit Roy [who plays Bhishma] is a walky talky Mahabharat. He is well versed with the all characters and the stories behind it. If I had any doubts, I would go to him and ask him to describe why I had to give a particular expression. He would always explain. Also, there were creative heads and directors around to help us if we had any queries.
How was your experience?
It has been wonderful. I have worked with Ronit in Kyunki but in his show, I got to see a different side of him. He is so dedicated that he goes home and rehearses his scene before he comes next day for the shoot. Yesterday, I got to see an extensive war scene between Ronit and the others, and the kind of effort they have put in is amazing.
You are also hosting a reality show Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar.
Yes, I am hosting a reality show for the first time. Here, the actor participants has to dance with his real and reel life partners. I am having a blast shooting for this. My track in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi ended three or four months ago, and I could not spend time with my friends.
Now, I am spending a lot of time with Hiten Tejwani and Gauri Pradhan [Images] [who are a part of Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar] and I am having fun. After Kyunki, I was just travelling to different countries, which I enjoyed too.
Will we see you in Kyunki again?
Not right now. But they told me that they will bring me back after some time. I have no clue when and how I will be shown again.
Now, the actress will be seen in a different avatar in Ekta Kapoor's [Images] Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki.
She talks to Rajul Hegde about her character Amba in the mythological show.
What made you take up Mahabharat?
I got a chance to act in a mythological show, which doesn't come one's way often. I am doing a cameo for three episodes.
I liked the character of Amba because it has tremendous potential. Mahabharat started because of two women, Draupadi and Amba.
Amba wanted to marry Bhishma after King Shalva and King Vichitravirya rejected her proposal, but due to his oath to remain a bachelor throughout his life, he couldn't marry Amba. So she held him responsible for her plight and wished to take vengeance by killing him.
You have a glamorous image. Why take up a mythological show now?
As an actor, we should try different kinds of roles. Doing a mythological will add to my portfolio and help me mature as an actor.
Tell us about the costumes in the show.
Grand is the only word I can use to describe everything. Balaji Telefilms [Get Quote] has not shot any of its shows on such a grand scale on television before.
The boys are looking really hot and stunning in Manish Malhotra's desgined costumes. He has given the characters of Mahabharat a modern look, keeping traditions in mind. I have really not worked with many women on this show, but their costumes are also awesome.
Were you offered Amba, or did you choose to play her?
The creative team had thought of one or two other characters too but Ekta Kapoor felt this role suited me better. I liked the character of Amba because she is a strong woman. It's worth doing this role.
What kind of homework did you do for this character?
I have not read the Mahabharat. But as a kid, I religiously watched it on television. Ronit Roy [who plays Bhishma] is a walky talky Mahabharat. He is well versed with the all characters and the stories behind it. If I had any doubts, I would go to him and ask him to describe why I had to give a particular expression. He would always explain. Also, there were creative heads and directors around to help us if we had any queries.
How was your experience?
It has been wonderful. I have worked with Ronit in Kyunki but in his show, I got to see a different side of him. He is so dedicated that he goes home and rehearses his scene before he comes next day for the shoot. Yesterday, I got to see an extensive war scene between Ronit and the others, and the kind of effort they have put in is amazing.
You are also hosting a reality show Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar.
Yes, I am hosting a reality show for the first time. Here, the actor participants has to dance with his real and reel life partners. I am having a blast shooting for this. My track in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi ended three or four months ago, and I could not spend time with my friends.
Now, I am spending a lot of time with Hiten Tejwani and Gauri Pradhan [Images] [who are a part of Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar] and I am having fun. After Kyunki, I was just travelling to different countries, which I enjoyed too.
Will we see you in Kyunki again?
Not right now. But they told me that they will bring me back after some time. I have no clue when and how I will be shown again.
Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar, a trend setter from Sony..
Life aur dance dono mein sahi partner ka hona bada zaroori hai…'Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar', Balaji Telefilm's & Ekta Kapoor's new reality dance show on Sony Entertainment Television starting July 9, Wednesday & Thursday at 8.00 p.m.will give you just that!!
The uniqueness of this show is that a celebrity will perform with his/her real and reel life partner and judges/viewers will check their chemistry quotient. Temperatures are surely going to soar high as the competition heats up amongst Indian television's favorite stars!!
Celebrities dancing on screen with their lead actors are very common and we accept the pairing simply because we find they share an excellent chemistry between them. But what happens when you pair them with their spouse and screen partner? Herein starts the real excitement of Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar.
The 7 celebrities chosen to participate are known to share a great chemistry with their on screen partners. Where does that leave their spouse? While the celebrity sizzles with the on-screen partner, will the spouse suffer in silence or will she strike back? Temperatures will soar and looks will freeze. Fragile egos and even more fragile equations will be on a rise. It will it be a competition to die for or to kill for-dance, masti, nok jhok, loads of gossip and entertainment.
The show that will be twice a week for 7 weeks will have 14 fun filled one-hour episodes. In the first episode all 7 celebrities will perform with their spouses. In the second episode, the same celebrities will perform with their on-screen partners… and so on.
The most awaited moment of the show is when the bottom two celebrities will have to choose one of his partners, (either the spouse or the on-screen partner depending on who got better marks). Whom will he/she choose? That's the moment to watch for! Will he/she choose his on-screen partner to retain professional harmony or will he/she opt for the spouse to retain domestic bliss? The choice is between the devil and the deep sea!!!
From week two, one trio will be eliminated, till the last two trios are left to compete for the finals. There will be no viewer voting. Marks given by the judges will be the ultimate deciding factor. The judges are well-known filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, choreographer Ganesh Hegde & beautiful actress Sameera Reddy.
Said Albert Almeida, Executive Vice President & Business Head- Sony Entertainment Television: "We at SET believe that this show will become a trend setter among dance reality shows. Dance based reality shows have an emotional, dramatic and visually appealing side to it. However in Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar the viewers will witness for the first time the actual chemistry between their favorite star and his/her reel and real partner respectively. Viewers will also get a chance to get up- close and personal with their favorite stars and the drama that unfolds, as a consequence, will be with a twist."
Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar is the joint effort of Suneil Shetty's Popcorn Entertainment & Balaji Telefilms. The sprightly Rakshanda Khan & popular actor Sachin Tyagi will host the show.
Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar will present 7 popular trios:
Protagonist - Real life partner- Reel life partner
*Hiten Tejwani-Gauri Pradhan-Nandini Singh
*Kashmera Shah-Krushna-Mukul Dev
*Amit Sarin-Vinisha Amit Sarin-Aashka Goradia
*Karnvir Bohra-Teejay Siddhu-Tina Parekh
*Vishal Singh - Praneeta Sahu- Dimple Jhangiani
*Jatin Shah -Priya Bhatija- Shalini Chandran
*Mridul -Tina -Wasna Ahmed
The uniqueness of this show is that a celebrity will perform with his/her real and reel life partner and judges/viewers will check their chemistry quotient. Temperatures are surely going to soar high as the competition heats up amongst Indian television's favorite stars!!
Celebrities dancing on screen with their lead actors are very common and we accept the pairing simply because we find they share an excellent chemistry between them. But what happens when you pair them with their spouse and screen partner? Herein starts the real excitement of Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar.
The 7 celebrities chosen to participate are known to share a great chemistry with their on screen partners. Where does that leave their spouse? While the celebrity sizzles with the on-screen partner, will the spouse suffer in silence or will she strike back? Temperatures will soar and looks will freeze. Fragile egos and even more fragile equations will be on a rise. It will it be a competition to die for or to kill for-dance, masti, nok jhok, loads of gossip and entertainment.
The show that will be twice a week for 7 weeks will have 14 fun filled one-hour episodes. In the first episode all 7 celebrities will perform with their spouses. In the second episode, the same celebrities will perform with their on-screen partners… and so on.
The most awaited moment of the show is when the bottom two celebrities will have to choose one of his partners, (either the spouse or the on-screen partner depending on who got better marks). Whom will he/she choose? That's the moment to watch for! Will he/she choose his on-screen partner to retain professional harmony or will he/she opt for the spouse to retain domestic bliss? The choice is between the devil and the deep sea!!!
From week two, one trio will be eliminated, till the last two trios are left to compete for the finals. There will be no viewer voting. Marks given by the judges will be the ultimate deciding factor. The judges are well-known filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, choreographer Ganesh Hegde & beautiful actress Sameera Reddy.
Said Albert Almeida, Executive Vice President & Business Head- Sony Entertainment Television: "We at SET believe that this show will become a trend setter among dance reality shows. Dance based reality shows have an emotional, dramatic and visually appealing side to it. However in Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar the viewers will witness for the first time the actual chemistry between their favorite star and his/her reel and real partner respectively. Viewers will also get a chance to get up- close and personal with their favorite stars and the drama that unfolds, as a consequence, will be with a twist."
Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar is the joint effort of Suneil Shetty's Popcorn Entertainment & Balaji Telefilms. The sprightly Rakshanda Khan & popular actor Sachin Tyagi will host the show.
Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar Kabhi Kabhii Yaar will present 7 popular trios:
Protagonist - Real life partner- Reel life partner
*Hiten Tejwani-Gauri Pradhan-Nandini Singh
*Kashmera Shah-Krushna-Mukul Dev
*Amit Sarin-Vinisha Amit Sarin-Aashka Goradia
*Karnvir Bohra-Teejay Siddhu-Tina Parekh
*Vishal Singh - Praneeta Sahu- Dimple Jhangiani
*Jatin Shah -Priya Bhatija- Shalini Chandran
*Mridul -Tina -Wasna Ahmed
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