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
Sameera in Ekta Kapoor's reality show
elevision has become the safest ground for flop actresses who haven't got any mentionable films in their hands. The not-so-happening actresses like Urmila Matondkar and Isha Koppikar have already appeared on television judging reality shows. Even when Shilpa Shetty's career was going downhill she, too, took on the role of judging one of the seasons of Sony's reality show Jhalak Dikhla Ja.
Now joining this league of such actresses is non-other-than bombshell Sameera Reddy. This gorgeous babe would now be seen judging Ekta Kapoor's upcoming reality show Kabhi Kabhi Pyar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar.
The other judges accompanying Sameera Reddy will be Mahesh Bhatt and choreographer Ganesh Acharya. With no work in one's hand undoubtedly these reality shows provide these divas not only with money but also with an opportunity to kill their idle time. Adding to it, these gorgeous babes also get the much needed free publicity to boost their declining filmy career, well, if possible.
Now joining this league of such actresses is non-other-than bombshell Sameera Reddy. This gorgeous babe would now be seen judging Ekta Kapoor's upcoming reality show Kabhi Kabhi Pyar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar.
The other judges accompanying Sameera Reddy will be Mahesh Bhatt and choreographer Ganesh Acharya. With no work in one's hand undoubtedly these reality shows provide these divas not only with money but also with an opportunity to kill their idle time. Adding to it, these gorgeous babes also get the much needed free publicity to boost their declining filmy career, well, if possible.
Sibling Rivalry between Tusshar and Ekta Kapoor
Ekta Kapoor must have the last word. And this is what was demonstrated visibly in her office when she had a huge spat with her brother Tusshar. The siblings had a massive argument over the publicity designs of Balaji Films' upcoming film C-Company.
The entire publicity campaign was designed by Tusshar. Apparently, when Tusshar brought the designs to the office for Ekta's approval, she rejected them.
Our source from the production house says, "C-Company is Tusshar's home production, hence he is actively involved with the film in many ways.
Ekta did not approve of the designs which Tusshar had prepared, but Tusshar stood his ground and insisted that they were fine. What initially started as a difference of opinion ended up in a heated argument."
Our source adds that there was some tension between the two and they did not speak for two days after that. When the things came to a standstill Ekta agreed to meet Tusshar again after ensuring that he incorporates some of her suggestions.
Reveals our source, "However, later they met halfway on the publicity designs."
When contacted, Tusshar confirmed the story. He said, "Yes, Ekta and I did have a big argument. Creative differences happen sometimes, at work."
Is it true that they didn't speak for two days? "Well yes, I didn't meet Ekta for two days after that," Tusshar replied diplomatically.
C-Company, directed by Sachin Yardi, stars Tusshar Kapoor (as a crime reporter) and Raima Sen and Mahesh Bhatt, Karan Johar and Sanjay Dutt have important cameos in the film.
Ekta Kapoor unveils her reality show
It seems queen of the 'K-series' has been bitten by the reality bug as well as she is all set to do Balaji's first ever reality television show.
Despite the fact that reality shows have been at the receiving end of television debates, it was soap Queen Ekta Kapoor unveiling her first ever reality contest.
Although popular for her saas-bahu sagas, the new venture according to Ekta would differ markedly in its flavour and presentation.
It's not only the concept of the show, but also the celebrity presence in it that would add to its appeal, and to make that happen, Ekta has roped in some of the popular names to judge the show.
Ekta Kapoor speaking on her reality show said, "I think nothing can pull a viewer bigger than spice, and this show has that. The magic ingredient in any outstanding show is spice."
Actress Sameera Reddy, one of the judges on the show, reacting to the upcoming task said, "I always wanted to judge a show where there are children. I have been waiting for this opportunity. The moment I got this chance I really liked it."
The move from daily-soaps to reality shows is Ekta's way of following the audience'spulse but, would this move repeat the success of her earlier ventures is something only time will tell.
Ekta Kapoor's reality show on television is named 'Kabhi Kabhi Pyaar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar' will be aired on, and Sony television and will go on air from July 9 on Wednesday and Thursday at
8 pm.
Filmaker Mahesh Bhatt will have actress Sameera Reddy and choreographer Ganesh Hedge for company as judges on the show.
The participants are seven celebrities with their real life and reel life partners. The 14-episode show has been jointly produced by Sunil Shetty's Popcorn Entertainment and Ekta Kapoor.
Despite the fact that reality shows have been at the receiving end of television debates, it was soap Queen Ekta Kapoor unveiling her first ever reality contest.
Although popular for her saas-bahu sagas, the new venture according to Ekta would differ markedly in its flavour and presentation.
It's not only the concept of the show, but also the celebrity presence in it that would add to its appeal, and to make that happen, Ekta has roped in some of the popular names to judge the show.
Ekta Kapoor speaking on her reality show said, "I think nothing can pull a viewer bigger than spice, and this show has that. The magic ingredient in any outstanding show is spice."
Actress Sameera Reddy, one of the judges on the show, reacting to the upcoming task said, "I always wanted to judge a show where there are children. I have been waiting for this opportunity. The moment I got this chance I really liked it."
The move from daily-soaps to reality shows is Ekta's way of following the audience'spulse but, would this move repeat the success of her earlier ventures is something only time will tell.
Ekta Kapoor's reality show on television is named 'Kabhi Kabhi Pyaar Kabhi Kabhi Yaar' will be aired on, and Sony television and will go on air from July 9 on Wednesday and Thursday at
8 pm.
Filmaker Mahesh Bhatt will have actress Sameera Reddy and choreographer Ganesh Hedge for company as judges on the show.
The participants are seven celebrities with their real life and reel life partners. The 14-episode show has been jointly produced by Sunil Shetty's Popcorn Entertainment and Ekta Kapoor.
Will Ekta’s Mahabharat work?
Soap queen Ekta Kapoor’s maiden mythological show was shrouded under lot of suspense and secrecy. When news came that Ekta was planning to make Mahabharat for television, people speculated whether she was making it for Star Plus. But soon Star announced its mega series on the mythological epic with Bobby Bedi as producer. Then news came in that Ekta was making Mahabharat for 9X. The channel kept quiet and Ekta also declined to confirm whether her show was aimed at 9X though regular meetings between the two to discuss the creative and logistics aspects of the show continued. Finally news came that Ekta was indeed making the mythological serial for 9X which was titled as Kahani Hamaaray Mahabharat Ki. Three weeks ago, the channel’s founder and CEO Indrani Mukejea had told this paper that they were planning to telecast the show from mid-August. However, the latest bit of news about the show is that its telecast has been pre-poned and it will come on air from July 7.
Why the show was kept under wraps for so long and why is it being launched more than a month ahead of its scheduled telecast date? Sooraj Rao, a senior creative head at Balaji who is the creative head of Mahabharat, refused to comment saying that he won’t be able to say anything on the matter. However, Indrani says the show was kept under wraps for some time because it was a half-baked project. “We were not ready to talk about it. We rather prefer the show to speak for itself instead of us talking about it,” she says. Ask her why the launch date has been preponed and Indrani says the show was actually planned for August launch. “We have shot at outdoors in Laddakh, Rajasthan, Hyderabad and Wai. Currently there are three units working at the Film City in Mumbai. Because of rains we wanted to play safe and August seemed ideal to go on air. But we have been lucky. Rains didn’t disrupt our shoot and we have a good bank to go on air from July 7,” she explains.
According to Indrani, it is important to contemporise the epic and match people’s expectations, given the technical and technological progress. “As a child I had seen B. R. Chopra’s Mahabharat and have good memories of watching it. I went through the series all over again when we decided to make it for 9X. Since we are making it two decades after it was first made for DD, we will have as many special effects and computer graphics to make it look good. The whole idea is to appeal to as many people as possible,” says Indrani. Generally fresh or lesser known actors/faces are preferred for mythological serials. Chopra’s Mahabharat had film actors like Mukesh Khanna, Puneet Isaar, Girija Shankar, Gufi Paintal, Roopa Ganguli and Surendra Pal in key roles. They were not unknown actors but were definitely not seen much on television.
However, Ekta’s Mahabharat has well-known television actors. Ronit Roy, Hiten Tejwani, Chetan Hansraj, Shakshi Tanwar, Makrand Deshpande and Harshad Chopra have all invaded our living rooms and become household names in negative and positive roles. Now from July 7 onwards, viewers will see them as mythological characters. Will these actors’ current or past image create disconnect with viewers? Will viewers find it difficult to accept them in mythological roles? Indrani doesn’t foresee any problem. She feels a show like Mahabharat needs well-known faces with proven acting skills. “Take Chopra’s Mahabharat. It had fairly known film actors who were easily accepted by viewers. Why do we rush to watch a Shah Rukh Khan film? It’s because he is not only a super star but an actor with proven acting skills,” says Indrani. Similarly, in her view, Ronit, Makrand, Aryan Vaid, Hiten and Chetan are well-known actors with proven skills. “You need stars to bring in eyeballs,” she adds.
Sooraj doesn’t disagree, “With as many as ten GE channels around and several mythological shows being made, you need known and relatable faces to connect with viewers. Not that it makes the task easy. The same amount of effort and hard work goes into the project but known faces are a definite plus point,” feels Sooraj, adding further, “While Chopra’s Mahabharat had film actors, our show has television actors.” In Indrani’s view, Mahabharat is not a mythological epic about Gods but a socio-mythological about people. “It’s about fight between two families. So why will known actors not be accepted as Bheeshma Pitamah, Kans, Karna, Bheema and Duryodhan? The only God in Mahabharat is Lord Krishna and for the role of Krishna we will cast a fresh or lesser-known face,” she elaborates.
In fact, Indrani says she and Ekta took quite some time to decide on the cast. “We discussed, debated and then decided to go for known faces because they are successful television actors” adds Indrani. Hiten who plays Karna doesn’t foresee any problem in connecting with viewers. “I have played many characters and Karna is one more role for me. Ekta has cast me in the role because she is confident that I will stand up to her expectations as well that of viewers,” says Hiten. Ronit Roy who plays Bheeshma Pitamah has kept his fingers crossed. “My only fear is that whether I will be able to play the role convincingly. But I am working hard and it should go down well with viewers,” feels Ronit.
However, Chetan Hansraj who is well-known for his negative role of Sasha in Kahaani... expects some problem initially. “People know me as Sasha and might find it bit difficult to accept me as Bheema. But I have not done Kahaani.. for the last three months and have been working on my physique to play Bheema. I don’t think there should be a major problem as viewers are now used to seeing actors in different characters,” says Chetan. Whatever it is, but a lot is at stake. The sudden spurt in mythological shows on satellite channels is a result of thesuccessful launch of Ramayan in a daily format on NDTV Imagine. Ever since its launch on January 21, Ramayan has been a channel driver. Now it remains to be seen whether Mahabharat in a daily format will also prove to be a channel driver for 9X.
Cut & paste Stars!
It all began when soap czarina Ekta Kapoor replaced her main lead character Mihir Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, essayed by Amar Upadhyay way back in 2001.
Amar wanted to quit the small screen for films and was replaced by Indra Kumar for all of six months, before Ronit Bose Roy made the character more iconic ever. Eight years later, ‘replacements’ of main lead characters/character artists in prime time, evening and afternoon soaps are almost a given. The minute actors throw starry tantrums, get pricey (read: demand pay hikes) or move on to the next big thing (Bollywood) —there’s solution at hand. Just ‘plot’ an accident or something and replace the character.
Sometimes, they work wonder, sometimes the ‘replacements’ have a tough time walking in the original’s footsteps. Gautami Kapoor for example, replaced Smriti Iraani a year ago in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi . A year later, thanks to the demands of TRPs, Ekta Kapoor wooed back Smriti. Even Sonia Kapoor, who just bagged the lead role in Zaara Pyar Ki Saugat , is facing a tough time as the show is going off air.
Shilpa Anand, who played the female lead in Dill Mil Gaye , found television, too small for her dreams and is joining Bollywood. So, she got replaced by Sukirti Khandpal promptly.
Sample some other replacements — television hunk Iqbal Khan by Nikhil Arya in Chhoona Hai Aasman , Pulkit Samrat by Yash Pandit in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi , Twinkle Bajpai by Gunjan Walia in Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyaan , Krystle D’Souza by Wasna Ahmed in Kahe Na Kahe , Samiksha Jug by Sonya Kapoor in Zaara-Pyaar Ki Saugat , Dev Keshwani by Amit Verma in Annu Ki Ho Gayee Wah Bhai Wah ... the list goes on.
Gunjan feels the sad part about replacements is the inevitable ‘comparison’. “Initially, people wanted Twinkle to come back, but gradually the audience is trying to accept me,” says Gunjan. Did she try hard for that role? “Well, I am trying to work hard and am adding my individual touch to it,” she explains.
Yash Pandit, the new Lakshya in Kyunki ..., says, “Since it is one of the finest and most popular shows on television, I paid heed to what the ladies in my house had to say about the character before I signed up for the show. The audience has been satisfied and I want to do the role my way.” Gurdeep Kohli, who replaced the youngest bahu of Indian television Prachi Desai in Kasamh Se , says she didn’t find it “difficult to do a character done by someone. It was just an extension of what I have been doing before. I have my own individuality and audience respects it and love my work.”
Amit Verma, who replaced the male lead in Annu Ki... recently, claims he joined the show only after he was “assured by the makers of the show” that he could do the role the way, “I perceived it”.
Newcomer Sukirti Khandpal, who’s just walked in Dill Mil Gaye, says that “positive feedback” made her work more. “If the audience is more receptive, then it’s fine,” she says.
Amar wanted to quit the small screen for films and was replaced by Indra Kumar for all of six months, before Ronit Bose Roy made the character more iconic ever. Eight years later, ‘replacements’ of main lead characters/character artists in prime time, evening and afternoon soaps are almost a given. The minute actors throw starry tantrums, get pricey (read: demand pay hikes) or move on to the next big thing (Bollywood) —there’s solution at hand. Just ‘plot’ an accident or something and replace the character.
Sometimes, they work wonder, sometimes the ‘replacements’ have a tough time walking in the original’s footsteps. Gautami Kapoor for example, replaced Smriti Iraani a year ago in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi . A year later, thanks to the demands of TRPs, Ekta Kapoor wooed back Smriti. Even Sonia Kapoor, who just bagged the lead role in Zaara Pyar Ki Saugat , is facing a tough time as the show is going off air.
Shilpa Anand, who played the female lead in Dill Mil Gaye , found television, too small for her dreams and is joining Bollywood. So, she got replaced by Sukirti Khandpal promptly.
Sample some other replacements — television hunk Iqbal Khan by Nikhil Arya in Chhoona Hai Aasman , Pulkit Samrat by Yash Pandit in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi , Twinkle Bajpai by Gunjan Walia in Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyaan , Krystle D’Souza by Wasna Ahmed in Kahe Na Kahe , Samiksha Jug by Sonya Kapoor in Zaara-Pyaar Ki Saugat , Dev Keshwani by Amit Verma in Annu Ki Ho Gayee Wah Bhai Wah ... the list goes on.
Gunjan feels the sad part about replacements is the inevitable ‘comparison’. “Initially, people wanted Twinkle to come back, but gradually the audience is trying to accept me,” says Gunjan. Did she try hard for that role? “Well, I am trying to work hard and am adding my individual touch to it,” she explains.
Yash Pandit, the new Lakshya in Kyunki ..., says, “Since it is one of the finest and most popular shows on television, I paid heed to what the ladies in my house had to say about the character before I signed up for the show. The audience has been satisfied and I want to do the role my way.” Gurdeep Kohli, who replaced the youngest bahu of Indian television Prachi Desai in Kasamh Se , says she didn’t find it “difficult to do a character done by someone. It was just an extension of what I have been doing before. I have my own individuality and audience respects it and love my work.”
Amit Verma, who replaced the male lead in Annu Ki... recently, claims he joined the show only after he was “assured by the makers of the show” that he could do the role the way, “I perceived it”.
Newcomer Sukirti Khandpal, who’s just walked in Dill Mil Gaye, says that “positive feedback” made her work more. “If the audience is more receptive, then it’s fine,” she says.
Ekta Kapoor to team up with Ameer?
JOINING the long list of corporate production houses who’ve come to Kollywood is Balaji Telefilms by Ekta Kapoor.
The Queen of Soaps who provided several tear-jerkers on TV, beginning with ‘k’ like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kkusum, and Kasamh Se, is said to be eyeing Kollywood as the next destination for her movies. And she has approached director Ameer of Paruthiveeran fame for a possible project together.
Speaking exclusively to this website's newspaper, director Ameer, who is currently shooting for Yogi, said “Yes, I got a call from her about four days ago. She asked if we could do a movie together. We’re still discussing the script and no hero has been finalised.”
It was also said that Ekta had discussed scripts with director Simbhudevan. When contacted, Simbhudevan denied that there were any discussions between them. “I’ve not been contacted by Balaji Telefims at all,” he declared.
Director Ameer is currently working on his first movie as an actor, Yogi, which is being directed by Subramaniyam Siva. Following this, the director is said to be working with Jayam Ravi on a movie titled Kannabiraan.
Meanwhile, Ekta Kapoor, though very successful on the small screen, hasn’t created great box office magic on the film scenario. She has produced over seven films, including the largely successful Kya Kool Hai Hum.
Will the queen of tear-jerkers and the award-winning director come together with the project they’re now discussing? One only has to wait and watch.
The Queen of Soaps who provided several tear-jerkers on TV, beginning with ‘k’ like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kkusum, and Kasamh Se, is said to be eyeing Kollywood as the next destination for her movies. And she has approached director Ameer of Paruthiveeran fame for a possible project together.
Speaking exclusively to this website's newspaper, director Ameer, who is currently shooting for Yogi, said “Yes, I got a call from her about four days ago. She asked if we could do a movie together. We’re still discussing the script and no hero has been finalised.”
It was also said that Ekta had discussed scripts with director Simbhudevan. When contacted, Simbhudevan denied that there were any discussions between them. “I’ve not been contacted by Balaji Telefims at all,” he declared.
Director Ameer is currently working on his first movie as an actor, Yogi, which is being directed by Subramaniyam Siva. Following this, the director is said to be working with Jayam Ravi on a movie titled Kannabiraan.
Meanwhile, Ekta Kapoor, though very successful on the small screen, hasn’t created great box office magic on the film scenario. She has produced over seven films, including the largely successful Kya Kool Hai Hum.
Will the queen of tear-jerkers and the award-winning director come together with the project they’re now discussing? One only has to wait and watch.
Zeenat Aman joins reality show
Yesteryears actress Zeenat Aman is again back with a bang. Soon she will be seen in a reality show 'Kaun Jeetaga Bollywood ka Ticket.' Zeenat will take the seat of judge. She, along with Shabana Azmi will judge contestants who have a knack for acting and have the capability to make to the silver screen. The show will be produced by Ekta Kapoor. Ekta always wanted Zeenat to judge the show as she finds her a fine actress who can select the right candidate. Speaking about Ekta Kapoor, Zeenat said, "Ekta has been so sweet. I’ve watched her grow up in front of me. I’m happy that my first foray into television is for her, though I must admit I don’t watch much TV."
Zeenat has retired from bollywood long back to devote her full time to her family. Now that her two sons have grown up, she is again planning to make her comeback in small screen if not in silver screen. Maybe this is Zeenat’s first step towards her entry into Bollywood again.
Farhan-Arjun gets set to 'Rock On'
While all eyes are set on Harman Baweja and Imran Khan who would be making their high profile debut with LOVE STORY 2050 and JAANE TU YA JAANE NAA respectively this Friday, one actor is quietly looking forward to a big screen debut with ROCK ON!!
The man is Farhan Akhtar and even though he is an established director with three big films like DIL CHAHTA HAI, LAKSHYA and DON - THE CHASE BEGINS AGAIN under his belt, he has chosen a restricted budget for his acting debut.
Farhan's co-production with Ritiesh Sidhwani, ROCK ON!! is a film about four rock stars played by Arjun Rampal, Purab Kohli, Luke Kenny and Farhan himself. The film is set on a medium budget and also marks the big screen debut of TV starlet Prachi Desai.
Interestingly, even though Farhan has worked with the likes of Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Akshaye Khanna in the films directed by him, he has no qualms working with relative newcomers in ROCK ON!! with Arjun Rampal being the senior most.
ROCK ON!! is directed by Abhishek Kapoor who made his debut behind the camera with ARYAN - THE UNBREKABLE. Even though the film was a flop (mainly due to a delayed release), ARYAN did meet with a decent response from those who saw it. Earlier, more than a decade back, Abhishek had made a beginning as an actor with a film called AASHIQUE MASTANA but subsequently dropped plans for an extended acting career with a failure like UFF YEH MOHABBAT.
With music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy and lyrics by Javed Akhtar, ROCK ON!! is all set for a 29th August release.
The man is Farhan Akhtar and even though he is an established director with three big films like DIL CHAHTA HAI, LAKSHYA and DON - THE CHASE BEGINS AGAIN under his belt, he has chosen a restricted budget for his acting debut.
Farhan's co-production with Ritiesh Sidhwani, ROCK ON!! is a film about four rock stars played by Arjun Rampal, Purab Kohli, Luke Kenny and Farhan himself. The film is set on a medium budget and also marks the big screen debut of TV starlet Prachi Desai.
Interestingly, even though Farhan has worked with the likes of Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Akshaye Khanna in the films directed by him, he has no qualms working with relative newcomers in ROCK ON!! with Arjun Rampal being the senior most.
ROCK ON!! is directed by Abhishek Kapoor who made his debut behind the camera with ARYAN - THE UNBREKABLE. Even though the film was a flop (mainly due to a delayed release), ARYAN did meet with a decent response from those who saw it. Earlier, more than a decade back, Abhishek had made a beginning as an actor with a film called AASHIQUE MASTANA but subsequently dropped plans for an extended acting career with a failure like UFF YEH MOHABBAT.
With music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy and lyrics by Javed Akhtar, ROCK ON!! is all set for a 29th August release.
Ram says no to 'Mahaabhaarat'
Following wife Gautami’s ‘exit’ from Kyunki..., Ram Kapoor has become the third actor to turn down Ekta Kapoor’s Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki.
Sources confirmed that he was approached for Mahaabhaarat... and also that he has refused the offer. Apparently, Ram has cited the reason that he is busy with Kasamh Se and since the the show takes up a lot of his time, he wants to focus on one show at a time to give it his best shot.
A highly placed source told us, “The husband wife duo ain’t scared of infuriating Ekta. They think that everyone has a false impression of Ekta. She is very understanding and when she had offered Gautami Kyunki..., she agreed to all her conditions. Gautami hopes that Ekta would approach her when she has a role for her.”
Sources confirmed that he was approached for Mahaabhaarat... and also that he has refused the offer. Apparently, Ram has cited the reason that he is busy with Kasamh Se and since the the show takes up a lot of his time, he wants to focus on one show at a time to give it his best shot.
A highly placed source told us, “The husband wife duo ain’t scared of infuriating Ekta. They think that everyone has a false impression of Ekta. She is very understanding and when she had offered Gautami Kyunki..., she agreed to all her conditions. Gautami hopes that Ekta would approach her when she has a role for her.”
Look Who’s Here
Zeenat Aman is all set to turn mentor for the first time on a reality show
How did the show, Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket?, happen, especially when you have turned down so many other offers?
It is a combination of many things — one, it is by Balaji and Ekta Kapoor. They had approached me over the years for several projects, which didn’t materialise. But I was sure that when I did anything for television it should be with her. I also liked the fact that this show is giving a platform for young people. The winners will get to act in a film, and that is really good. The show will not take away too much of my time also. Besides, Ekta has people like Shabana Azmi on board as well.
Is this the first time you are making an appearance on TV?
I have appeared as guest on various talk shows but that was completely different. This is the first time I’d be in show throughout.
What do you think of reality shows?
I don’t watch a lot of TV but I’ve seen a few reality shows.
Do you think actors today have the Zeenat Aman style?
I think we have very stylish actors. Aishwarya Rai is a very stylish lady. Kareena Kapoor is looking very good and so is Katrina Kaif. Every era has its own lovely ladies.
Ronit Roy: Nervous about playing Bhishma
After essaying the popular role of Mihir Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Rishabh Bajaj in Kasauati Zindagi Kay, Ronit Roy will switch over to another popular character on Indian television.
Ekta Kapoor's [Images] Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki will see him play Bhishma, earlier played by Mukesh Khanna in BR Chopra's version of Mahabharat.
He talks to Rajul Hegde about his new role.
How did you get the role?
Ekta Kapoor told me that she was making a spectacular Mahabharat, and I said that I would love to be part of the show. I read the Mahabharat, and was convinced that if there was a character I wanted to play, it had to be Bhishma. I sent an SMS to Ekta and told her that I wanted to play Bhishma. She agreed.
Why did you want to be a part of this show?
I respect Ekta Kapoor's creative judgments, and I like working with her. I only take up projects that excite me and feel passionate about. When I was approached for Mahabharat, I had informed Balaji that I wanted to finish my current projects and then start with this show and they agreed.
Why Bhishma?
Bhishma is one of the most powerful and beautiful characters in Mahabharat. The character is larger in magnitude and I am proud that I am playing Bhishma. At the same time, I'm very scared and nervous too.
The first face that comes to mind when you think of Bhishma is Mukesh Khanna.
I am proud to play the character of Bhishma, which Mukesh Khanna essayed in B R Chopra's Mahabharat, and made history. The new generation has not seen the old Mahabharat; they will be seeing it for the first time. So it will be a big challenge to get accepted. It's a huge task and I will try my best to justify the role.
Mukesh Khanna said in an interview that it is dangerous to remake an epic and that it will be a flop.
Mukesh Khanna is a senior actor; he has every right to give his opinion. As far as the show is concerned, whether it is going to be a hit or a flop, we will know once it goes on air on July 7. Let us leave it to the audience.
Since this is your first mythological show, did you have any problem with the dialogues?
I speak good Hindi. I had a problem with chaste Hindi for a couple of days. Now, I'm used to it.
What kind of preparation did you do for this role?
I prepared at two levels. One, being the son of Ganga signifies purity. He would also have the qualities of his father, Shantanu, a Kshatriya king. The journey of Bhishma from Gangaya to Bhishma Pitama reflects various shades. To depict so many shades makes it challenging for an actor. I have to keep both in mind and make sure my mannerisms fit my character.
Tell us about your look.
The look and the costumes are very different from what we would normally imagine. We don't have mukut and golden armour. There is a different kind of headgear for different characters. I am very comfortable with the traditional costume, dhoti.
Tell us about the shooting experience.
I have been shooting for this show for the last two months in Wai, Ladakh, Jaipur and Mumbai. We shoot for 10-12 hours a day. We are trying to keep an episode bank since the show will be aired before the scheduled time.
It has been a fantastic experience. This show is produced by one of the biggest production houses, Balaji Telefilms [Get Quote]. Ekta has a great vision and is producing Mahabharat on a bigger scale than the earlier one.
What next?
I am just doing Kyun Ki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Mahabharat.
Ekta Kapoor's [Images] Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki will see him play Bhishma, earlier played by Mukesh Khanna in BR Chopra's version of Mahabharat.
He talks to Rajul Hegde about his new role.
How did you get the role?
Ekta Kapoor told me that she was making a spectacular Mahabharat, and I said that I would love to be part of the show. I read the Mahabharat, and was convinced that if there was a character I wanted to play, it had to be Bhishma. I sent an SMS to Ekta and told her that I wanted to play Bhishma. She agreed.
Why did you want to be a part of this show?
I respect Ekta Kapoor's creative judgments, and I like working with her. I only take up projects that excite me and feel passionate about. When I was approached for Mahabharat, I had informed Balaji that I wanted to finish my current projects and then start with this show and they agreed.
Why Bhishma?
Bhishma is one of the most powerful and beautiful characters in Mahabharat. The character is larger in magnitude and I am proud that I am playing Bhishma. At the same time, I'm very scared and nervous too.
The first face that comes to mind when you think of Bhishma is Mukesh Khanna.
I am proud to play the character of Bhishma, which Mukesh Khanna essayed in B R Chopra's Mahabharat, and made history. The new generation has not seen the old Mahabharat; they will be seeing it for the first time. So it will be a big challenge to get accepted. It's a huge task and I will try my best to justify the role.
Mukesh Khanna said in an interview that it is dangerous to remake an epic and that it will be a flop.
Mukesh Khanna is a senior actor; he has every right to give his opinion. As far as the show is concerned, whether it is going to be a hit or a flop, we will know once it goes on air on July 7. Let us leave it to the audience.
Since this is your first mythological show, did you have any problem with the dialogues?
I speak good Hindi. I had a problem with chaste Hindi for a couple of days. Now, I'm used to it.
What kind of preparation did you do for this role?
I prepared at two levels. One, being the son of Ganga signifies purity. He would also have the qualities of his father, Shantanu, a Kshatriya king. The journey of Bhishma from Gangaya to Bhishma Pitama reflects various shades. To depict so many shades makes it challenging for an actor. I have to keep both in mind and make sure my mannerisms fit my character.
Tell us about your look.
The look and the costumes are very different from what we would normally imagine. We don't have mukut and golden armour. There is a different kind of headgear for different characters. I am very comfortable with the traditional costume, dhoti.
Tell us about the shooting experience.
I have been shooting for this show for the last two months in Wai, Ladakh, Jaipur and Mumbai. We shoot for 10-12 hours a day. We are trying to keep an episode bank since the show will be aired before the scheduled time.
It has been a fantastic experience. This show is produced by one of the biggest production houses, Balaji Telefilms [Get Quote]. Ekta has a great vision and is producing Mahabharat on a bigger scale than the earlier one.
What next?
I am just doing Kyun Ki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Mahabharat.
Ram Kapoor opts out of Ekta's Mahabharat
RELATED NEWS
After Gautami Kapoor decided to turn down Ekta's Kahani Hamaray Mahabharat Ki, her husband Ram Kapoor has also decided to follow suit.
Reports DNA After Hours that the actor claims that he wants to focus at the work at hand rather than take up more work...
"I just want to do one project at a time," says the actor. "I am busy with Kasamh Se and it takes up a lot of my time."
Ram also states that actors like Ronit Roy and Hiten Tejwani may be able to juggle multiple projects and shows but "that doesn’t mean I would have to do the same. I don't intend to work in several projects at a time," he adds.
The industry shudders to make Ekta mad... And Gautami allegedly didn't even listen to the role that Ekta had to offer. She just said 'no' outright! So isn't the couple afraid of straining ties with the most powerful woman in the industry?
"This is a false impression of Ekta that people have," says Gautami. "She is a gem of a person. When she took me in Kyunki... she agreed to all my conditions. I am sure she would approach me whenever she has some more good roles for me."
Karnvir Bohra In; Naman Shaw Out!!
Karnvir Bohra-Tina Parekh fans can get a smile back on their faces as the very popular duo of Kasauti Zindagi Kii have now given it a second thought to shake their legs in Ekta Kapoor’s upcoming reality show on Sony, Kabhie Kabhie Pyaar Kabhie Kabhie Yaar.
Confirming this news is Karnvir who says, “We will be making it to the reality show now and this is confirmed news. I like this concept a lot and am excited as nobody has seen me and my wife dancing together. Above all, I will get to dance with Tina Parekh and the thought of sharing screen space with her after such a long time makes me jubilant”. When asked the reason for refusing this reality show earlier, the actor confides, “Well, the issue was with money, but now things are sorted out. Also, I would say that we are here just because our fans wanted to see us in this reality show”.
While the trio Karnvir Bohra-Teejay-Tina Parekh has stamped their presence in the reality show, another popular actor Naman Shaw has backed out from the dance show. “I am already doing the 9X reality show ‘Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket’ and to concentrate on two reality shows will be very difficult. So I have decided to opt out of Kabhie Kabhie Yaar…”, quotes Naman. For the uninitiated, Naman Shaw was to be seen with his girl friend and Krithika Singhal (Naina of Kya Dill Mein Hai).
According to our source, “The show will be launched on 9th July and will be telecast between 8 PM – 9PM. This will be a bi-weekly show wherein the central figure in the jodi will get to dance with his/her on screen partner on Wednesday and with the off screen partner on Thursday”.
Well, a lot has been talked about who-is-in and who-is-out till date!! Guess it is finally time for some action now!!
Confirming this news is Karnvir who says, “We will be making it to the reality show now and this is confirmed news. I like this concept a lot and am excited as nobody has seen me and my wife dancing together. Above all, I will get to dance with Tina Parekh and the thought of sharing screen space with her after such a long time makes me jubilant”. When asked the reason for refusing this reality show earlier, the actor confides, “Well, the issue was with money, but now things are sorted out. Also, I would say that we are here just because our fans wanted to see us in this reality show”.
While the trio Karnvir Bohra-Teejay-Tina Parekh has stamped their presence in the reality show, another popular actor Naman Shaw has backed out from the dance show. “I am already doing the 9X reality show ‘Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket’ and to concentrate on two reality shows will be very difficult. So I have decided to opt out of Kabhie Kabhie Yaar…”, quotes Naman. For the uninitiated, Naman Shaw was to be seen with his girl friend and Krithika Singhal (Naina of Kya Dill Mein Hai).
According to our source, “The show will be launched on 9th July and will be telecast between 8 PM – 9PM. This will be a bi-weekly show wherein the central figure in the jodi will get to dance with his/her on screen partner on Wednesday and with the off screen partner on Thursday”.
Well, a lot has been talked about who-is-in and who-is-out till date!! Guess it is finally time for some action now!!
I am just a fledgling who is starting whereas Ekta is a stalwart: Kavita Barjatya
Kavita Barjatya tells Jyothi Venkatesh that she is just a fledgling on TV unlike Ekta who is a stalwart.
How tough was it for you to get a foothold in the business of television considering you have a film legacy at Rajshri Pictures?
Initially it was quite a tough task but we have now managed to get the grip. It was no doubt an entirely new business for us at Rajshris, because earlier we were only making films with our own courage of conviction.
What is the major lesson that you have learnt while making serials?
I have learnt that one has got to understand that one is working for the channels and consider them our bosses, who should be kept happy. The earlier one understands this mantra, the better it is if you happen to be a television producer.
How has been your experience with your bosses, like Sahara One, NDTV Imagine and Star Plus?
I have been fortunate that all the channels for which we have produced the shows have had immense trust on us and hence fortunately for us it has been a smooth sailing right from day one.
By God's grace, our show Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki has now completed 725 episodes. I can say with a sense of pride that our show is the No 1 flagship show of the channel.
How is your show Main Teri Parchai Hoon faring?
Though Main Teri Parchai Hoon started with almost nil publicity, everyone who has been watching the show on NDTV Imagine is talking about it. In fact after Ramayan, I am told that ours is the most in demand show on NDTV Imagine. The show speaks for itself though we did not publicize it at all.
What is your USP as a TV show producer?
The channels for which we are making the shows give us a daily soap briefing and do not meddle with its making because they think that we can churn out emotional soaps, since it has been proved that it is our forte.
Do you mean to say that the channels do not pressurize the producers at all?
I cannot talk about the other producers who deal with the channels but I can vouchsafe that the channels for which we make our shows have never pressurized us, because they believe that the content is the king and one has got to bow down in front of the story.
Why did you then replace Arjun Punj with Kashif first and later with Aamir Ali in Woh Rehene Wali Mehlon Ki?
Arjun Punj had to be killed in the show because of the leap that the story took and replaced by Kashif. Arjun wanted to come back though he had left the serial for films.
After Kashif, we roped in Aamir Ali because the story demanded that we cast him, not because the channel pressurized us.
Isn't Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki yet another rona dhona serial?
I beg to differ. It is not a rona dhona serial. It is more of good versus evil serial with a subtle message. It has been nominated by one of the TV awards as the best serial on social message.
How did you zero in on Reena Kapoor to play the main protagonist ion WRWMK?
We go as per the requirement of any character whether it is for our films or for television serials. We decided to cast Reena because we needed a good actress, who is also not over exposed on television. The best thing about television is that you get an opportunity as a producer to create an image.
How happy are you with your choice of Reena Kapoor as the main protagonist of WRWMK?
I am more than happy with Reena who is now identified as the WRWMK girl though she had earlier acted in a few films as well as serials. Just Imagine, Reena became a household name with the show though earlier for the same channel, bigger stars like Sridevi, Raveena Tandon, Hema Malini etc. could not salvage their shows.
Why is WRWMK your favorite serial?
Though all my serials are my favorites, I am particularly attached to WRWMK because after watching the show, people take the name of Pari, the character that Reena is playing in the serial in the same breath when they take the name so other ever green characters of television like Tulsi and Parvati.
Though you are churning out serials, why are you very low key unlike Ekta Kapoor?
Remember I am just a fledgling who is starting whereas Ekta is a stalwart as far as television is concerned, though I concede that unlike Ekta who is new to films, we at Rajshris have a film legacy for the last several decades.
We want to grow from strength to strength. My main priority is to maintain the image of my dadaji who used to make clean and healthy family fare.
Which was your biggest compliment in recent times?
I was on a high when Aamir Ali told me after he won the Nach Baliye crown with Sanjeeda that he was of the opinion that he had got all the votes in his favor not because of him but for the character of Saumya which he is playing in Woh Rehnewali Mehlo Ki. It was so sweet of him.
Why do you make only women-oriented serials?
My serials may be woman oriented because that is the need of the hour as far as television is concerned since we have to keep in mind our women viewers who remain glued to their television sets but at the same time the hero in our serials have substantial roles.
What according to you is the difference between films and TV shows?
On TV, the deadline hangs above your neck unlike in films where you can delay the release by planning depending upon how your film is progressing. You can shoot a scene which you have missed out in films during the patch work but there is no such luxury as far as TV is concerned.
What is your aim as a producer now?
My main aim at any point of time is to keep people happy and in the process also keep myself happy but at the same time I want to limit my work, by concentrating on quality more than quantity and devote time to my large joint family. There are fifteen members in our family. My mother Usha is the pillar of my strength.
What is your biggest achievement as a producer?
Besides the fact that I do not allow any actor to work beyond 9.30 pm on the sets of my shows, not a single episode of any show of ours has been repeated due to want of fresher episodes, unlike some of the popular shows which have had repeat shows because the producers could not deliver the newer episodes. That I think is my biggest achievement. -Jyothi Venkatesh
How tough was it for you to get a foothold in the business of television considering you have a film legacy at Rajshri Pictures?
Initially it was quite a tough task but we have now managed to get the grip. It was no doubt an entirely new business for us at Rajshris, because earlier we were only making films with our own courage of conviction.
What is the major lesson that you have learnt while making serials?
I have learnt that one has got to understand that one is working for the channels and consider them our bosses, who should be kept happy. The earlier one understands this mantra, the better it is if you happen to be a television producer.
How has been your experience with your bosses, like Sahara One, NDTV Imagine and Star Plus?
I have been fortunate that all the channels for which we have produced the shows have had immense trust on us and hence fortunately for us it has been a smooth sailing right from day one.
By God's grace, our show Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki has now completed 725 episodes. I can say with a sense of pride that our show is the No 1 flagship show of the channel.
How is your show Main Teri Parchai Hoon faring?
Though Main Teri Parchai Hoon started with almost nil publicity, everyone who has been watching the show on NDTV Imagine is talking about it. In fact after Ramayan, I am told that ours is the most in demand show on NDTV Imagine. The show speaks for itself though we did not publicize it at all.
What is your USP as a TV show producer?
The channels for which we are making the shows give us a daily soap briefing and do not meddle with its making because they think that we can churn out emotional soaps, since it has been proved that it is our forte.
Do you mean to say that the channels do not pressurize the producers at all?
I cannot talk about the other producers who deal with the channels but I can vouchsafe that the channels for which we make our shows have never pressurized us, because they believe that the content is the king and one has got to bow down in front of the story.
Why did you then replace Arjun Punj with Kashif first and later with Aamir Ali in Woh Rehene Wali Mehlon Ki?
Arjun Punj had to be killed in the show because of the leap that the story took and replaced by Kashif. Arjun wanted to come back though he had left the serial for films.
After Kashif, we roped in Aamir Ali because the story demanded that we cast him, not because the channel pressurized us.
Isn't Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki yet another rona dhona serial?
I beg to differ. It is not a rona dhona serial. It is more of good versus evil serial with a subtle message. It has been nominated by one of the TV awards as the best serial on social message.
How did you zero in on Reena Kapoor to play the main protagonist ion WRWMK?
We go as per the requirement of any character whether it is for our films or for television serials. We decided to cast Reena because we needed a good actress, who is also not over exposed on television. The best thing about television is that you get an opportunity as a producer to create an image.
How happy are you with your choice of Reena Kapoor as the main protagonist of WRWMK?
I am more than happy with Reena who is now identified as the WRWMK girl though she had earlier acted in a few films as well as serials. Just Imagine, Reena became a household name with the show though earlier for the same channel, bigger stars like Sridevi, Raveena Tandon, Hema Malini etc. could not salvage their shows.
Why is WRWMK your favorite serial?
Though all my serials are my favorites, I am particularly attached to WRWMK because after watching the show, people take the name of Pari, the character that Reena is playing in the serial in the same breath when they take the name so other ever green characters of television like Tulsi and Parvati.
Though you are churning out serials, why are you very low key unlike Ekta Kapoor?
Remember I am just a fledgling who is starting whereas Ekta is a stalwart as far as television is concerned, though I concede that unlike Ekta who is new to films, we at Rajshris have a film legacy for the last several decades.
We want to grow from strength to strength. My main priority is to maintain the image of my dadaji who used to make clean and healthy family fare.
Which was your biggest compliment in recent times?
I was on a high when Aamir Ali told me after he won the Nach Baliye crown with Sanjeeda that he was of the opinion that he had got all the votes in his favor not because of him but for the character of Saumya which he is playing in Woh Rehnewali Mehlo Ki. It was so sweet of him.
Why do you make only women-oriented serials?
My serials may be woman oriented because that is the need of the hour as far as television is concerned since we have to keep in mind our women viewers who remain glued to their television sets but at the same time the hero in our serials have substantial roles.
What according to you is the difference between films and TV shows?
On TV, the deadline hangs above your neck unlike in films where you can delay the release by planning depending upon how your film is progressing. You can shoot a scene which you have missed out in films during the patch work but there is no such luxury as far as TV is concerned.
What is your aim as a producer now?
My main aim at any point of time is to keep people happy and in the process also keep myself happy but at the same time I want to limit my work, by concentrating on quality more than quantity and devote time to my large joint family. There are fifteen members in our family. My mother Usha is the pillar of my strength.
What is your biggest achievement as a producer?
Besides the fact that I do not allow any actor to work beyond 9.30 pm on the sets of my shows, not a single episode of any show of ours has been repeated due to want of fresher episodes, unlike some of the popular shows which have had repeat shows because the producers could not deliver the newer episodes. That I think is my biggest achievement. -Jyothi Venkatesh
Star set to divorce Balaji Teleflims
After a happy marriage of four years Star India is all set to divorce Balaji Teleflims. Considered to be one of the biggest splits in the Indian entertainment industry India's biggest entertainment channel will sell its stake in Balaji Teleflims known for its saas-bahu soaps. Star which currently holds 25.99% stake in Balaji and is not planning to renew its exclusive contract with Balaji beyond the present period.
Balaji Teleflims where Ekta Kapoor and her family control almost 40% share are not too keen to buy Star's share, however negotiations are on to find a suitable buyer. Star had entered to an exclusive contract with the production house in 2004 to produce exclusive content for its prime time slot. Star has been paying a huge premium to Balaji for this contract.
Balaji Teleflims where Ekta Kapoor and her family control almost 40% share are not too keen to buy Star's share, however negotiations are on to find a suitable buyer. Star had entered to an exclusive contract with the production house in 2004 to produce exclusive content for its prime time slot. Star has been paying a huge premium to Balaji for this contract.
Om-Parvati join Ekta's Mahabharat
TV actor Kiran Karmarkar, best known as Om of Kahani Ghar Ghar Kii (KGGK), joins the cast of ekta kapoor's much-talked about show Kahani Hamaray Mahabharat Ki.
He will play King Shantanu in the show, which will be aired on 9X channel.
In the serial, once again Kiran will share the screen space with his co-star Sakshi Tanwar, who will play Ganga, his wife in it.
The versatile actor joins the team of much-admired actors like Ronit Roy, Anita Hassanandani, Rakshanda Khan, Aryan Vaid, Chetan Hansraj, Makarand Deshpande and many other known actors in this mega mythological show.
Zeenat Aman joins reality show bandwagon, maybe soaps too
After years of demurral, Bollywood's glamour icon of yesteryears Zeenat Aman has finally said yes to television. She will be a on Ekta Kapoor's reality show "Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket" to be aired on 9X.
"Ekta has been so sweet. I've watched her grow up in front of me. I'm happy that my first foray into television is for her, though I must admit I don't watch much TV," Zeenat told IANS.
"But every time I'd run into Ekta's mom - and that is once a year - she'd tell me to please let them know when I'm ready for television."
The former beauty queen, who has starred in many memorable has been offered a number of soaps in the past, which she declined to do.
"TV does take a lot of time. Very honestly, I wasn't willing to invest the amount of time it required. And my priority has always been my family. But this time I was approached with such enthusiasm, I just couldn't say no."
She admits "Kaun Jeetega..." requires a more pronounced level of commitment than the average
"This is a reality show about discovering new talent and needs to be treated with special care. I'm willing to go that extra mile for it. To be able to find fresh talent for our industry is wonderful.
"And Ekta has gone into it with such passion - just like in everything she does. I'm so delighted to be on board with her," said the actress.
"There was no plan, thought or conscious strategy to do or to be anything. I just did what I wanted to."
At the moment both of Zeenat's sons, who were studying away from home, are back with her.
"And to me, having my children around is the most important thing in life. I lead a very contented and private life. I've my sons, dog and lots of greenery surrounding me. What more could I ask for?
"Honestly, I'm treating this project as a one-off thing. I'm not looking ahead at what I'd be doing or not doing. At the moment I'm just happy to be focusing on 'Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket'. As for soaps, maybe yes. I've never said no to anything."
Zeenat starts shooting "Kaun Jeetega...' on July 1.
"Basically it'd take up no more than a week. I hope to enjoy it. It provides a platform for young people. The winners will be given a chance to work in a film produced by Ekta.
"Today there're such platforms for hopefuls. When I had entered, the opportunities for newcomers were so limited," said the actress who was seen in such memorable hits like "Yaadon Ki Baraat", "Don", "Qurbani" and "Satyam Shivam Sundaram".
Zeenat is looking forward to meeting up with her old colleague Shabana Azmi on the show.
"Yes, she's a colleague and we did a film together: 'Ashanti' - Shabana, Parveen Babi and I - it was loads of fun."
On veteran Dev Anand's autobiography, which has pointed references to his friendship with her, Zeenat answers with consummate clarity.
"Dev saab is a senior person, and someone I respect very much. Due to him I had my first success 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna'. And subsequently I shared a long and fruitful association with his banner Navketan.
"However, two different individuals have differing perspectives of the same situation. I leave it at that."
"Ekta has been so sweet. I've watched her grow up in front of me. I'm happy that my first foray into television is for her, though I must admit I don't watch much TV," Zeenat told IANS.
"But every time I'd run into Ekta's mom - and that is once a year - she'd tell me to please let them know when I'm ready for television."
The former beauty queen, who has starred in many memorable has been offered a number of soaps in the past, which she declined to do.
"TV does take a lot of time. Very honestly, I wasn't willing to invest the amount of time it required. And my priority has always been my family. But this time I was approached with such enthusiasm, I just couldn't say no."
She admits "Kaun Jeetega..." requires a more pronounced level of commitment than the average
"This is a reality show about discovering new talent and needs to be treated with special care. I'm willing to go that extra mile for it. To be able to find fresh talent for our industry is wonderful.
"And Ekta has gone into it with such passion - just like in everything she does. I'm so delighted to be on board with her," said the actress.
"There was no plan, thought or conscious strategy to do or to be anything. I just did what I wanted to."
At the moment both of Zeenat's sons, who were studying away from home, are back with her.
"And to me, having my children around is the most important thing in life. I lead a very contented and private life. I've my sons, dog and lots of greenery surrounding me. What more could I ask for?
"Honestly, I'm treating this project as a one-off thing. I'm not looking ahead at what I'd be doing or not doing. At the moment I'm just happy to be focusing on 'Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket'. As for soaps, maybe yes. I've never said no to anything."
Zeenat starts shooting "Kaun Jeetega...' on July 1.
"Basically it'd take up no more than a week. I hope to enjoy it. It provides a platform for young people. The winners will be given a chance to work in a film produced by Ekta.
"Today there're such platforms for hopefuls. When I had entered, the opportunities for newcomers were so limited," said the actress who was seen in such memorable hits like "Yaadon Ki Baraat", "Don", "Qurbani" and "Satyam Shivam Sundaram".
Zeenat is looking forward to meeting up with her old colleague Shabana Azmi on the show.
"Yes, she's a colleague and we did a film together: 'Ashanti' - Shabana, Parveen Babi and I - it was loads of fun."
On veteran Dev Anand's autobiography, which has pointed references to his friendship with her, Zeenat answers with consummate clarity.
"Dev saab is a senior person, and someone I respect very much. Due to him I had my first success 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna'. And subsequently I shared a long and fruitful association with his banner Navketan.
"However, two different individuals have differing perspectives of the same situation. I leave it at that."
Zeenat Aman joins reality show bandwagon, ‘maybe soaps too’
Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) After years of demurral, Bollywood’s glamour icon of yesteryears Zeenat Aman has finally said yes to television. She will be a judge on Ekta Kapoor’s reality show “Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket” to be aired on 9X. “Ekta has been so sweet. I’ve watched her grow up in front of me. I’m happy that my first foray into television is for her, though I must admit I don’t watch much TV,” Zeenat told IANS.
“But every time I’d run into Ekta’s mom - and that is once a year - she’d tell me to please let them know when I’m ready for television.”
The former beauty queen, who has starred in many memorable Bollywood hits, has been offered a number of soaps in the past, which she declined to do.
“TV does take a lot of time. Very honestly, I wasn’t willing to invest the amount of time it required. And my priority has always been my family. But this time I was approached with such enthusiasm, I just couldn’t say no.”
She admits “Kaun Jeetega…” requires a more pronounced level of commitment than the average reality show.
“This is a reality show about discovering new talent and needs to be treated with special care. I’m willing to go that extra mile for it. To be able to find fresh talent for our industry is wonderful.
“And Ekta has gone into it with such passion - just like in everything she does. I’m so delighted to be on board with her,” said the actress.
“There was no plan, thought or conscious strategy to do or to be anything. I just did what I wanted to.”
At the moment both of Zeenat’s sons, who were studying away from home, are back with her.
“And to me, having my children around is the most important thing in life. I lead a very contented and private life. I’ve my sons, dog and lots of greenery surrounding me. What more could I ask for?
“Honestly, I’m treating this project as a one-off thing. I’m not looking ahead at what I’d be doing or not doing. At the moment I’m just happy to be focusing on ‘Kaun Jeetega Bollywood Ka Ticket’. As for soaps, maybe yes. I’ve never said no to anything.”
Zeenat starts shooting “Kaun Jeetega…’ on July 1.
“Basically it’d take up no more than a week. I hope to enjoy it. It provides a platform for young people. The winners will be given a chance to work in a film produced by Ekta.
“Today there’re such platforms for hopefuls. When I had entered, the opportunities for newcomers were so limited,” said the actress who was seen in such memorable hits like “Yaadon Ki Baraat”, “Don”, “Qurbani” and “Satyam Shivam Sundaram”.
Zeenat is looking forward to meeting up with her old colleague Shabana Azmi on the show.
“Yes, she’s a colleague and we did a film together: ‘Ashanti’ - Shabana, Parveen Babi and I - it was loads of fun.”
On veteran actor Dev Anand’s autobiography, which has pointed references to his friendship with her, Zeenat answers with consummate clarity.
“Dev saab is a senior person, and someone I respect very much. Due to him I had my first success ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’. And subsequently I shared a long and fruitful association with his banner Navketan.
“However, two different individuals have differing perspectives of the same situation. I leave it at that.”
Kiran Karmarkar joins Ekta’s ‘Mahabharat’
New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) TV actor Kiran Karmarkar, best known as Om of “Kahani Ghar Ghar Kii” (KGGK)”, joins the cast of Ekta Kapoor’s much-talked about show “Kahani Hamare Mahabharat Ki”. He will play King Shantanu in the show, which will be aired on 9X channel.
In the serial, once again Kiran will share the screen space with his co-star Sakshi Tanwar, who will play Ganga, his wife in it.
The versatile actor joins the team of much-admired actors like Ronit Roy, Anita Hassanandani, Rakshanda Khan, Aryan Vaid, Chetan Hansraj, Makarand Deshpande and many other known actors in this mega mythological show.
Kareena Kapoor on the cover of Verve
If Forbes can do it, then, why not Verve? We are talking about the lifestyle magazine latest issue that has profiled the top female achievers of this year.
The best part of this list is that there are no rankings or ratings for the achievers. They are simply profiled. And true to the saying that there is no bigger business than showbusiness, it is Kareena Kapoor who features on the magazine cover.
Showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to posing for covers, one surely must've lost count of the number of magazines that she has posed for this year.
others on the list include Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Katrina Kaif, Ekta Kapoor, Farah Khan, and Mira Nair.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)