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MIDDLE EAST APRIL 2021
e r i f l r i G on
I N A V D A KIARA
e th n o e r a s r ta s e s o h w r is e r ig h t n o w
THE RAMADAN ISSUE
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
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EDITORIAL TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Manju Ramanan manju.ramanan@starzmediainc.com
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FILMFARE (INDIA) Chief Executive Officer Deepak Lamba Chief Community Officer & Editor Jitesh Pillaai Executive Editor Anuradha Choudhary Brand Solutions Director Jyoti Verma PUBLISHED BY: Starz Media Inc P.O BOX: 18022 Dubai, United Arab Emirates REGIONAL PARTNER OF
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Copyright 2021 Starz Media Inc All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors within. Printed and Published under license and permission from Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd
Ramadan Kareem We turn three with this edition. Filmfare Middle East started its renewed journey in 2018 when it was launched, end of March 2018 by Mr Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of the Danube Group. In a glittering ceremony, we watched Deepika Padukone launch the April cover of Filmfare Middle East. That was the year, her film Padmavaat had released and had to battle controversies and pressures, that she didn’t give in to. A truly fearless woman, she embodies courage, perseverance and the belief in oneself. The launch of 2018 saw the best of Bollywood in Dubai. Karan Johar was felicitated as the Most Influential Film Personality and was a face, much awaited to Dubai crowds. Fawad Khan, Mehwish Hayat and Jawed Sheikh were our guests from Pakistan. Manish Malhotra, Sophie Chowdhry, Dia Mirza, Jackie Shroff, Pooja Hegde added the glamour and the glitz to the event at Bollywood Parks. So did Bharti, Gurmeet Choudhry, Debolina, Javed Jaaferi, Raza Murad, Ali Quli and several others who came to support the event. Musical duo Armaan and Amal Mallik opened the night with their melodious numbers while songstress Usha Uthup created a moment onstage when she called her friend, Dubai based actor Kalpana Iyer to dance to her old film numbers, only to be joined in by the effervescent disco-king, Bappi Lahiri. Ssumeir Pascricha (Pammy aunty) hosted the event with TV star Jay Bhanushali. We have the beautiful Kiara Advani on our cover this month. A girl who started her career with Fugly in 2014, was seen in Dhoni :The Untold Story where she played Saakshi, Mahendrasingh Dhoni’s wife followed by her OTT debut with Lust Stories, Kabir Singh and more. I met Kiara in Dubai when Lust Stories had just released and happened to ask her about her role that wasn’t exactly easy to enact onscreens. “I just went with the flow,” she had giggled. The gorgeous actors has filmed one of her most well-known songs in Dubai at the Burj Khalifa with Akshay Kumar. The song from the recent film Laxmii that has the monument’s name in its title. Her recent film Indoo ki Jawaani is endearing as well as she prepares to take on bigger films. We are in the Holy Month of Ramadan, a pious month where fasting, praying and charity takes over our lives. Apart from a few recipes that you should try out during the season for iftars and suhoors, do have a look at how people in Dubai are celebrating Ramadan and the forthcoming Eid.
Manju Ramanan Editor-in-Chief Filmfare Middle East
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April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 3
Volume 37 | APRIL 1, 2021
highlights
8
26 COVER PHOTO BY TARAS TARAORWALA
7
THE PATH MAKERS
MANJU RAMANAN’S EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SAIF BELHASA EMIRATI BUSINESS TYCOON AND ANIMAL LOVER
MAHESH BABU APPROACHED TO PLAY RAM OPPOSITE DEEPIKA PADUKONE
interviews
must follow
36
30
THE MUST FOLLOW LIST OF SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS
MANJU RAMANAN CATCHES UP WITH FILMMAKER IMTIAZ ALI
AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE IN CONVERSATION WITH THE SOUTH SUPERSTAR NAGARJUNA
42
JAWED SHEIKH REVEALS HIS BOOK PLANS IN A CANDID CHAT WITH AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE
ramadan special
44
PLAN YOUR IFTAR EVENINGS
events
60
THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE AWARDS WAS A GLAMOROUS AFFAIR
10
COVER STORY
KIARA ADVANI TALKS ABOUT HER DREAMS COMING TRUE
Bespoken
Bliss !
Of Grace & Gratitude
T
he Holy month has begun. With Ramadan just around the corner, it’s a time when praying, fasting, gratitude, generosity and peace dwells in our hearts. We have much to seek, but much more to thank for, the days remind us. Dubai too has once again geared up for the revered days ahead with Iftars and Suhoors lined up. And even though the usual number of Iftar tents may be less this year keeping in mind the Covid protocols, what’s truly amazing is that it’s not going to dampen the spirit of grace, of giving, and of generosity. And this is the spirit, we cherish and pray for year after year. The sweltering heat too is already upon us and the month also heralds this advent of the summers. The season of dates, lazy afternoons, and rising temperatures… Having heard so much about these Dubai summers, it’s certainly not something that would have me curious. Yes, neither the tourist nor the adventurer in me is keen to find out what it entails. What does however has my curiosity bar rising is the exciting pavilion at the Expo 2021. Dubai has reopened the preview of Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion. And before the sun beats me to it, I do hope to visit it soon. Although thanks to its extremely well-planned and designed climate-controlled cooling systems, the cool indoors are a welcome relief. Talking of cool indoors, the theatres are bouncing back with the constant influx of new releases and increased footfalls. We recently caught Godzilla Vs. Kong at its red carpet premiere and while indulging in the cinematic treat, a thought that would not budge out of my mind. Just how many cinematic gems worthy of a big screen experience have we passed off since last year, settling for the small screens! Well, there’s no doubt that the OTT content had us hooked and we could swear by the variety it offered, but nothing can truly beat the charm of watching a stunning sequence or a well-crafted scene in a theatre, right? What also has me most excited is a power-packed evening coming up – Most Influential Women, 2021 - an event that will have us honour some of the most prolific women achievers of this region, as we launch our much-talked about Coffee Table Book featuring them. An evening that will have some of the most dynamic women from the various fields all under one roof! They are leaders, motivators, empowered women of exemplary courage and convictions and we couldn’t be prouder to host and spend a memorable evening celebrating their success stories with them.
Ramadan Kareem! Aakanksha Naval-Shetye
DEPUTY EDITOR
4 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR I’m so thrilled to be featured in the April issue of Filmfare Middle East. Watch out for my interview Himansh Kohli
Hey team Filmfare ME, continue spreading the good vibes… It’s always so great interacting with you guys and being featured in FFME Kunal Thakur
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FilmfareME
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The Path Makers Rene Borisova
)
Ami Desai
Max Fardan
Check out the most trending must-follow influencers on social media this month
@max.fardan
@ amidesai
Maruf Azimov a.k.a Max Fardan is a proud native of Tashkent, Uzbekistan. He is a top fashion model, brand ambassador for many brands, and a breast cancer survivor living in Dubai with a credo of ’Enjoy every moment of your life’. He has also won the Mr. Dubai title in 2019 and has been featured in various fashion and lifestyle magazines in the region.
@kira_shine_
A young, award-winning blogger and former actress, Basma is now a polished fashion influencer who loves to explore the fashion and beauty niche in Dubai. Her social content is all about lifestyle, fashion and beauty in the Middle East.
Running a successful media business for over a decade now, Dragana Radosavljevic is one of the most prominent media personalities in the UAE. Her social handles comprise of content revolving around fashion, travel, business, and parenting.
Yasmin Yousri
Gehna Advani
Ines Noor Ines owns a cosmetic company in the UAE, distributing hair products from USA and Europe. She started her career with modeling in videos. A mother of two, she sets an example of how a woman can be a great mother, successful business woman and a fashionista simultaneously.
@dubaiblogger
@basmastyles
A singer, model, TV presenter and an influencer, Kira Shine’s Instagram handle is surely a treat for the eyes. She has also received multiple awards and titles such as ‘Queen of Monaco’ and ‘Miss Cannes Film Festival’.
@noussa.nour
Being one of the first super models in UAE, Rene Borisova born in Bulgaria, has become one of Dubai’s top influencers. Her passion for traveling, beauty and fashion took her across the globe, including being the brand ambassador for many renowned brands. Rene’s understanding of Arab culture mixed with her aesthetics, create the perfect mix of the West and the Middle East.
DRAGANA
Kira Shine
Basma
Ami has worked in TV and digital media for over 10 years. She developed her love for storytelling through producing and hosting for various outlets like CNN and the OWN Network. She gets her energy and passion from connecting with people on her social media platforms– whether it’s creating engaging content around motherhood, lifestyle or approachable beauty.
@reneborisova
@gehnaadvani Gehna Advani is a Dubai-based beauty, fashion and lifestyle influencer! This Gen Z girl is also about music, positivity and inspiring people. Always up for any challenges, she is highly admired for her content and recommendations.
@yasminyousri_ Yasmin Yousri is a three times cancer survivor, who quit a corporate career of 15 years to pursue her dream as fashion stylist, lifestyle blogger and motivational speaker. She inspires women, that life is beautiful the way it is
April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 7
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights
a bird’s-eye view of show town’s happenings
AAMIR KHAN’S NO PHONE POLICY Expecting Aamir Khan to do the unexpected on the big screen has become the norm. According to reports, the actor has decided to keep his cell phone off till the release of his next Laal Singh Chaddha. The reason behind keeping his phone off is that he wants no hindrance while working on Laal Singh Chadha. Aamir, who’s put his heart and soul into his next movie, wants to make sure he doesn’t get disturbed by unnecessary phone calls. The report states that the Dangal actor will follow this pattern until the release of the film. Well, the actor knows what’s good for him.
MEANWHILE...
Looks like Aamir Khan will be working on a sports film soon. We hear the super star is already in talks with Shubh Mangal Savdhaan director RS Prasanna. The director and the actor are in talks for a sports film which is high on drama and human emotions. The actor is kicked about this project and has already had some five to six meetings with the filmmaker. Nothing has been officially said or signed yet but by the looks of it, it’s a yes from Aamir Khan. The last sports drama Aamir starred in was Dangal. The film created a hysteria at the box-office and won several awards.
PLAYING FOR KEEPS Tiger Shroff is a baller alright. If he hadn’t come into films, he would have made a name for himself either as a gymnast, an athelete or a footballer. He was invited to play a charity match and bedazzled everyone with his footballing skills. He did get into a scrape and had a little bit of an injury and we couldn’t help but notice the concern on Disha Patani’s face. 8 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
MAHESH BABU APPROACHED TO PLAY RAM OPPOSITE DEEPIKA PADUKONE Madhu Mantena’s Ramayana 3D has been making waves for quite a while now. According to rumours, the project has been allotted a budget of Rs. 300 crore and would star Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in the lead. Later, it was said that Hrithik wouldn’t be playing the role of Ram but the role of the infamous Raavan. The latest development suggests that Madhu may have finally found his Ram. A report in a leading daily has claimed that the producer is looking to bring in Mahesh Babu to play the character of Lord Rama. The report claims that the team was looking for someone who could bring innocence to the character. Initially Prabhas was approached for the role but he’s already playing the character in Om Raut’s Adipurush. According to the grapevine, Madhu was shocked when Om Raut announced Adipurush with Prabhas. He immediately got his financiers to up the ante on Ramayana 3D. Mahesh Babu, on the other hand, has liked the script but is yet to give his nod to the project. If these rumours do hold true, then we’re in for one hell of a cinematic experience.
BHUMI PEDNEKAR ENGAGES IN A ZERO WASTAGE POLICY ON THE SETS OF BADHAAI DO Bhumi Pednekar choses powerful roles on screen. Off screen, she continues to inspire us in different ways. The actress who’s a climate warrior, makes sure that she always does something for the environment which in turn will be good for everyone’s future. The actress has started a zero wastage and zero plastic policy on the set of Badhaai Do. The actress who’s shooting for it in Dehradun is making a lot of difference on the set of her film by making sure the makers follow a zero-wastage and zero-plastic policy on the set. She recently spoke on the same, “The support that my fraternity gave my environmentdriven campaigns has been worthy of applause. There is a change in people’s mindsets, even within the fraternity. While shooting my last three films, the unit did not use single-use plastic and employed steel water bottles instead. These are productive steps, because the kind of garbage that is produced on a film-set is sizable. This is a conversation I like to have with most of my teams.” Badhaai Do is the sequel to Badhaai Ho and teams up the actress for the first time with Rajkummar Rao.
expert advice
DR. SANA SAJAN Director of American Aesthetic Medical Center
PDO FACE LIFT WHAT IS A PDO THREAD LIFT? Thread lifts are a relatively new form of non-surgical face lift. If your face has loose or sagging skin and you want a tighter, fresher and youthful look, this treatment may be suitable. There are no cuts or incisions, just injections. HOW LONG IT LAST? PDO, or polydioxanone threads, dissolve after six to nine months. No lifting technique can produce permanent results. Facelift surgery will usually produce longer lasting results than a thread lift. The results of facelift surgery can last up to a decade, whereas a thread lift will generally last from one to three years.
EMRAAN HASHMI TO PLAY THE VILLAIN IN TIGER 3! KATRINA-KARTIK TEAM UP TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME Kartik Aaryan who has been signing some big films has been in talks with Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment’s new production titled Freddy. While nothing has been confirmed yet, it seems that the makers have already found their leading lady. According to reports on an online portal, we hear that Katrina Kaif too has been in talks for Freddy. Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina teamed up in Zero in 2018 which was produced by the former. Kat’s performance became the talking point of the film and she won several accolades for it. Now looks like SRK wants to sign her for his next production. Kartik Aaryan had once said in an interview that he wants to have babies with Katrina Kaif, expressing his love and fondness for the actress. Well, here’s a chance to make a cinematic baby together.
There was a time when Emraan Hashmi used to churn out blockbusters on a regular basis and was the uncrowned king of kisses. But it wasn’t just the bold scenes that made him famous. He displayed his acting chops in films like Shanghai, Azhar and The Dirty Picture. Off late, the actor has been doing less films. These days he concentrates on meaty roles and looks like he’s got a big role up his sleeve. We hear that Emraan Hashmi will play the lead antagonist in Tiger 3. Now that’s surely big for him. Salman Khan and Emraan Hashmi locking horns will be one exciting watch. The makers initially wanted a fresh face for the role just like they had got Sajjad Delfarooz in Tiger Zinda Hai, then they thought that Emraan Hashmi would be the perfect choice. This will be Emraan Hashmi’s first ever YRF film and also his first collaboration with Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif. According to reports, Tiger 3 will start with a small schedule in March and then the unit will fly off to the Middle East, where a major chunk of the film will be shot. It’s even said that Salman Khan’s Tiger story will continue from the climax shot of Shah Rukh Khan’s Pathan. Can’t wait for this one for sure.
HOW DOES IT WORK? Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are a special medical grade thread that is thinner than hair and made of protein. Research has confirmed that PDO relaxes tendons and muscles, whilst a foreign body reaction improves the blood flow to the area stimulating neocollagenesis (the production of new collagen in the skin). It also stimulates elastin and hyaluronic acid,and both substances are key to maintaining firm, youthful looking skin. IS IT SAFE? PDO threads have over a decade long safety track record in surgery and wound closure. PDO threads have gained FDA approval. The treatment results in an immediate improvement in skin’s appearance in terms of overall texture, tighter and firmer skin, as fine lines and wrinkles are reduced. WHICH AREAS CAN BE TREATED? This is a very versatile treatment which can be used in any part of the face and neck to treat sagging brows, nasolabial lines, vertical and horizontal forehead wrinkles, drooping cheeks, marionette lines, sagging jawline, plus wrinkles and folds on the chin and neck. TREATMENT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE IF: You have active acne/broken skin or are prone to cold sores. You have taken anticoagulation medications such as aspirin/warfarin/heparin or have consumed alcohol within 48 hours of treatment. (We advise you to continue taking prescribed medications but stop taking some complimentary supplements such as evening primrose oil, vitamin D,A and E, fish oils, flax seed oil, magnesium, garlic and ginko prior to treatment)
At the American Aesthetic Medical Center we are specialised in all types of hair treatments and we have the most skilled and experienced medical team. Ask for your consultation now! EAST 9 April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE
Call us at 80085555
COVER STORY
What dreams may come... It feels like a dream come true. I always wanted to do the kind of work I am doing. So when directors and producers of that stature put that faith in you… it feels nice. The kind of scripts I am reading, were not there a couple of years ago. Now I want to do all those roles Kiara Advani aims for the sky. She talks about her ambitions and more...
e r i f l Gir on
RA
NI, A V D A A R ith KIA w s t a h c H G RA SIN D N E V U H G e
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th n o e r a s r a t s whose rise right now
Kiara
Advani
has quietly moved into the top echelons of the film industry, seemingly without trying. Though that’s not true. She made an unheralded entry in Bollywood with Fugly (2014) but it took her four years after that to be noticed. It was Lust Stories, an anthology, that brought her into the limelight. Then thanks to the success of Kabir Singh (2019) and Good Newwz (2019), Kiara found herself to be the toast of big banners. She doesn’t just possess exotic good looks and a great figure but has serious acting chops too. Charming, vivacious and always full of positive energy, she’s looking forward to 2021, where she has Jug Jugg Jeeyo, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Shershaah coming up. On the personal front, she’s reportedly seeing Sidharth Malhotra, though she has chosen to remain mum about it and doesn’t even throw the ‘we’re just good friends’ line when asked about it. The media reports that the duo had a ‘meet-the-parents’ moment and even indulged in a Maldives vacation together. Hmm… No personal-issues policy aside, the actress is quite candid when it comes to tackling questions about her career and life. Excerpts from a freeflowing interview with the bubbly actress... PHOTOGRAPHER: TARAS TARAPORVALA | STYLING: LAKSHMI LEHR | MAKE UP: LEKHA GUPTA | HAIR: NISHI SINGH
April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 11
COVER STORY
YOU’RE CONSIDERED ONE OF THE TOP ACTRESSES OF B-TOWN RIGHT NOW. HOW DOES IT FEEL? It feels like a dream come true. I always wanted to do the work I am doing. So when directors and producers of that stature put that faith in you… it feels nice. The kind of scripts I am reading, they weren’t there a couple of years ago. Now I want to do all those roles. YOU’RE DHARMA’S BLUE-EYED GIRL, HAVING DONE GUILTY, GOOD NEWWZ AND JUG JUGG JEEYO WITH THEM. WHAT’S THE EQUATION YOU SHARE WITH KARAN JOHAR? Karan often jokes that everyone asks him why he’s giving me films. And I always say that I must be so good that you give me these films. (Laughs) Sometimes even I joke that I should have my own cabin at Dharma. I love working with them. They have given me some of my strongest characters. When Lust Stories happened, it was the first role that fetched me a lot of appreciation. I think Karan sees me as a performer. Everything he has offered me, whether it has been Good Newwz, JJJ or Shershaah, every character has been so incredibly etched out that I naturally feel inclined to do it. I want him to direct me again. TODAY YOU’RE WORKING WITH THE BIGGEST SUPERSTARS AND BIG BANNERS. WHAT WAS THE TURNING POINT IN YOUR CAREER? Everyone will point out to my successful films whether it was Lust Stories or Kabir Singh. Naturally those films had a wider reach. But personally, I think my foundation has been my first film Fugly. I owe it to the first film for every film I’ve landed. Also, every film has taught me something, every person I have acted with, every director I have worked with has taught me something. So for me, every film is special, whether it was a box-office success or a big dud, it taught me something and it has been a part of my journey.
Karan often jokes that everyone asks him why he’s giving me films. And I always say that I must be so good that you give me these films. Sometimes even I joke that I should have my own cabin at Dharma 12 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Dress: Giuseppe Di Morabito
WHEN YOUR DEBUT FILM DIDN’T DO AS WELL AS EXPECTED, WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO KEEP YOUR CHIN UP AND SAIL ON? That was the toughest period because I didn’t know better. I didn’t know what was next? I didn’t realise that it’s not just about your first film. Every film is a challenge. And it’s every Friday to Friday, no matter wherever you are in your career. My belief in myself was what motivated me during that period of time. I hung on to that and dug my feet in. There was never a plan B.
THERE WAS NO PLAN B? No, I can remember, the only thing I wanted to do was be an actor. I have been training probably since I was four. So everything was around that. WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM THAT PARTICULAR PHASE NOW THAT YOU LOOK BACK AT IT? I prepared every single day, that when the opportunity comes I’m ready for it. I didn’t want to ever feel like I haven’t given it my all. I really feel lucky today that the directors conduct workshops. They want you to prepare for roles, they want you to unlearn what you have learnt and approach a character in a new way. Even when you cry in a film, you cry differently in each film. And that is a very daunting task for an actor. That’s why today, when I look back at Kabir Singh and see the climax scene, I still have tears in my eyes because I never watched it as myself. I never felt like that was me. HOW DO YOU HANDLE SOCIAL MEDIA TROLLS? I don’t pay attention to them. Unfortunately, they’re so hurt in their own lives that they want to spread hate. So giving in and answering back is not something I would want to do. I just kind of ignore it. Also, I’ve a welldeveloped sense of humour and am able to see the funny side of it. DO YOU BELIEVE THIS INDUSTRY IS A CUT-THROAT PLACE AND YOU’VE TO BE ON YOUR TOES HERE ALL THE TIME TO STAY AHEAD? Definitely cut-throat. It’s actually nice to be in a league of actors where everyone is bringing in something new and interesting to the table. So it helps you to pull up your socks. You can’t take it easy, not for a second. The kind of content we’ve seen on OTT in the whole of last year, I feel everybody has opened up to out-of-the-box ideas.The whole creative space has had a full 360 degree turn. Everyone wants to push the envelope now.
Every film has taught me something, every person I have acted with, every director I have worked with has taught me something. So, for me, every film is special, whether it was a box-office success or a big dud April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 13
COVER STORY
I really feel lucky today that the directors conduct workshops. They want you to prepare for roles, they want you to unlearn what you have learnt and approach a character in a new way. Even when you cry in a film, you cry differently in each film
Crop top: Topshop Jacket: Paule Ka Earring: Studio Metallurgy
DO YOU FEEL INDOO KI JAWAANI DESERVED A BETTER RELEASE STRATEGY? Of course, it breaks my heart that it came out amidst the lockdown. But it was a call producers had to take because they wanted to support the multiplexes. Last year was really a difficult year and many films which were to be released in theatres, ended up on OTT. I think it’s for the first time that every single actor wants every single film to work, so that we can go back to the theatres, Because for all of us, actors, directors, technicians, everybody in the media, this is our
14 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
bread and butter. This is what we all are here for, for the love for movies. Despite everything. I’m happy that Indoo Ki Jawani released in cinemas. So the first time I went back to the theatres was to watch my own film. It was surreal and lovely. WHAT WAS THE SITUATION LIKE ON THE SET OF JUG JUGG JEEYO WHEN YOUR CO-STARS TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID-19? HOW DID YOU HANDLE IT? I have to say that the production and everyone on set was so prompt with the entire situation. It was scary, no doubt. And the truth is all of us were extremely paranoid when this happened. Because you worked with them you always had this thought that maybe you’ve got it as well.
Thankfully, all three of them Varun Dhawan, Neetu Kapoor and director Raj Mehta had minimal symptoms and they came out of it stronger. And hats off to Neetu aunty. It was her call that we should go back to Chandigarh for the shoot. Director Raj Mehta too was convinced and then everyone else too came on board. We took extra precautions and managed to shoot without further mishap. The team spirit was quite strong. I think we have all emerged stronger after the experience. TELL US THREE GREAT PERKS OF HAVING A SUCCESSFUL FILM TO YOUR CREDIT? Audience’s love, many more films to follow and a better bank balance. IF YOU WERE A JOURNALIST, WHO WOULD YOU INTERVIEW FOR A COVER STORY AND WHAT’S THE FIRST QUESTION YOU WOULD ASK? I would interview Sanjay sir (Sanjay Leela Bhansali) and I would ask him when is he casting Kiara Advani? I told you there are so many goals, and so many wishes on my wishlist. I have to now put it out in the universe. HOW DID YOU SURVIVE THE LOCKDOWN? I’ve always been a simple person. Basically it was making the most of the situation, because of
course it does get to you. It got to everyone. Some people took it really badly. My dad and brother were feeling low but my mom kept our spirits up. She has a school and she had to shut down her school but she was happy despite that. She used to say – that your happiness is in your hands and in your control. And I think that’s the most beautiful way to look at it. She taught me to seek a positive out of every negative in life and I survived practicing that. SIDHARTH MALHOTRA, KARTIK AARYAN, VARUN DHAWAN, AKSHAY KUMAR – DESCRIBE YOUR CO-STARS IN YOUR OWN WORDS... Akshay sir is somebody who is continuously working and never stops. That is inspiring given his experience, age, stardom, everything. That’s the best example. So his energy to keep going and to keep working... I love that about him. Varun Dhawan is a notorious boy but has a heart of gold. As a co-star I had a wonderful time working with him because he has so many ideas and so many variations on how he wants to do a scene. It’s like a film that Raj is making and then there is a parallel film that Varun decides to make. So we had fun. We just wanted to keep on giving more shots while Raj had already got his shot in the first take. But he was kind enough to give us more takes. Kartik, again is great fun on the set. But I have to still work with him a little more to get to know him better. We have just started working, so I look forward to it. Sid, is someone I got to know really well through the shooting of Shershaah. He is someone who is intelligent when it comes to scripts and edits. He is focussed when it comes to his work. HOW WOULD YOUR REAL-LIFE LOVER BE LIKE – AS POSSESSIVE AS KABIR SINGH OR AS FUNNY AND LIGHT-HEADED LIKE DILJIT FROM GOOD NEWWZ? I don’t have any particular type. For me, it is somebody who accepts me for who I am and who loves and respects me. And is someone I can be friends with. WHOM WOULD YOU LIKE TO GIVE CREDIT FOR YOUR SUCCESS? God. I am a very spiritual person. My biggest Godfather is my God, he has put me through everything and that’s how I have managed my entire life.
Dress: Giuseppe Di Morabito
It’s a great time for actresses today that we are getting films where we are shouldering the product. So when Guilty happened that was my first film that I shouldered. For me,it was a special film
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FASHION & BEAUTY
PLAYING TURTLE
The turtleneck trend is a resurgence on fashion street
This trend dates back to the late ’80s when Polo players wore this high-neck sweater, which was later called Polo neck for the longest time. Icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe made this trend a must-have for women who loved the elegant and simple look. Even tech wizard Steve Jobs was known for his signature black turtleneck. This trend is making its way back in the Indian wardrobe. In physique-flattering alters, the turtleneck is not just a winter season essential but is repeatedly seen in dresses, bodysuits and even simple crop tops.
KE A T DP’S
L'Autre Chose
If you’re looking to style a turtleneck differently everyday, Deepika Padukone’s the one to take inspiration from.
NORA FATEH ALI
Antonella Rizza
THE POLAR EXPRESS
MANUSHI CHILLAR
RAKUL PREET SINGH
PRIYANKA CHOPRA JONAS
“A turtleneck is about sophistication.” Dwyane Wade 16 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
MM6 Maison Margiela
Stella McCartney RaquelAllegra
Amélie Pichard
TIE-DYE RENAISSANCE
KARAN JOHAR
MALAIKA ARORA
TIED AND TESTED
Add some colour to your wardrobe, lovelies! One of the trippiest trends on the block, tie and dye is making a comeback ever since the lockdown started and we are not going to complain. Big in the ’70, this psychedelic print is something we’ve all tried once as a DIY at home. It’s also made several appearances at the runway over the past couple of years. There are so many colours and combinations to play with and several patterns to choose from. Tie and dye looks easy but the thought and effort that goes into getting these beautiful pieces ready is nothing but art.
Ssheena
Diesel
Converse AMIRI Carolina Herrera
"Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous, but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing." Alexander Wang
HUMA QURESHI KIARA ADVANI
DEEPIKA PADUKONE
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FASHION
Eid
Gift Guide
PAtchi BATH & BODY WORKS
TATA HARPER
VICTORIA'S SECRET Charlotee Tilbury HUDA BEAUTY
Kiko Milano Kiko Milano
Marks & Spencer Marks & Spencer
Pandora Marks & Spencer
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Decor this ramadan
DANUBE HOME
Marks & Spencer
IKEA BLOOMERS
IKEA Marks & Spencer
DANUBE HOME
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FASHION
Marchesa
ramadan Fashion Edit
DUNE
BTHAINI
PANDORA 20 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021 DUNE
ENDEMAGE
BINT THANI
zayan the label
ENDEMAGE
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Double FASHION
Fun
RICHA CHADDA
You can never do too much denim Double denim is tricky business but once paired correctly in an ensemble, it can do wonders for both casual and formal wear. Often called the Canadian tuxedo, this trend has been around since quite a while and has now evolved in the form of personalised quirky ensembles. You can break the monotony of the denim with colourful heels or add some chunky jewellery to give it an ethereal twist. Double denim is like a blank canvas, waiting for fashionistas to unleash their imagination.
SARA ALI KHAN
DO THE DENIM
ALAYA F
SAMANTHA AKKINENI
SONAL CHAUHAN
NIMRAT KAUR
SONAKSHI SINHA
Create your own style let it be unique for yourself and yet identifiable for others. Anna Wintour 22 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Summer Hues
DAMAS
BvlgarI
ALICE MCCALL
Melissa Odabash
Marks & Spencer
RICHARD MILLE Nicholas Kirkwood April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 23
BEAUTY
Smell like
! n e v he a
1
Bulgari Dolce Estasi Eau de Parfum
The coolest thing about Bulgari’s new collection of fragrances is that they’re totally customizable. Start with your base scent preferably a powdery, citrus perfume, and then layer it with one of the brand’s super-concentrated “magnifying” scents.
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Urban-Unique-Trending- Everything about Fragrance
Whether you prefer to apply your signature scent for a date night or for a work day in the office, fragrances help give us a certain aura and presence. Part of what creates this presence for each person is the use of fragrance notes. Similar to how musical notes make up a song, fragrance notes are the individual components that, when combined, form a unified, pleasing perfume. Suman Vaid curates an engaging guide that explains fragrance notes, ideal scent for your zodiac sign and best new perfumes of 2021 that are people’s favourites so far.
Swanky New Perfume Brands of 2021
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24 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Tom Ford Tubéreuse Nue
Louis Vuitton Étoile Filante
This new scent from Tom Ford is spiked with the perfect combination of floral (jasmine and tuberose), spicy (pepper), and musky Don’t be fooled by the fact that this new perfume notes. Spritz it on the inside of your wrists is best described as sweet and fruity-notes like in the morning and you’ll notice it gets strawberry, jasmine, magnolia, and musk make deeper and richer throughout the day. it super modern and wearable. Hot tip: This one comes with custom bottle engraving, so it’s kinda a genius gift.
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Mugler Cologne Angel Nova Eau de Parfum
7
How cool is this star-shaped bottle? Looks aside, this new perfume from Mugler smells real good, thanks to the bright raspberry notes that come through on first spritz. It’s also got a touch of rose and akigalawood to balance some of the fruitiness.
Marc Jacobs Fragrances Daisy Spring Eau de Toilette
The perfect scent for transitioning from winter to spring, this new limited-edition perfume is a brighter, fresher take on Marc Jacob’s cult-favorite Daisy. You’ll find everything from green cardamom to pink rosebuds and rosewood in this one.
KKW Fragrance Hearts Rose Gold Eau de Toilette
Notes like lemon pear water, peony, and white moss make this perfume a perfect must-have for summer. Plus, the cute heart-shaped bottle plays a cherry on the cake.
Kayali
This first collection of Kayali by Huda Beauty is designed to be layered and combined to create a scent that is truly yours. Inspired by the rich heritage of the Middle East, KAYALI reflects limitless possibilities, personalities and desires to celebrate and enhance one’s infinite layers.
Perfume Notes Perfume notes are ingredients that make up a fragrance. They are categorized as top notes (citrus, lavendar) heart notes (cinnamon, jasmine) and base notes (vanilla, musk). This carefully selected blend of ingredients forms the perfume accord, the basic character of a fragrance. Perfume makers carefully select notes to make sure a fragrance both smells pleasant and evokes a certain experience. Notes are classified in a fragrance pyramid. Notes at the top of the pyramid have a higher volatility (they evaporate faster), while notes at the bottom are longerlasting.
The Best Perfume to Wear According to Your Zodiac Sign
ARIES
Valentino
This fragrance’s top notes of bergamot and lemon celebrate the energy and gusto embodied by Aries.
TAURUS
Dior
Housed in a limited-edition Dior toile de jouy casing, this jasmine and bergamot-based scent makes for the perfect everyday scent that the practical Taurus will love.
Top Notes
Top notes are the scents you detect first after spraying a perfume. These play a role in setting first impressions and shaping a fragrance’s story. Some common top notes include citrus scents – like lemon, orange, and bergamot – as well as light floral notes like lavender and rose. Basil and anise are also commonly used as top notes.
Heart Notes
As the name suggests, heart notes make up the “heart” of the fragrance. Their function is to retain some of the top notes’ aroma while also introducing new scents to deepen the experience. Sometimes referred to as middle notes, Heart notes appear as the top notes start to fade and remain evident for the full life of the fragrance. Heart notes include full-bodied, aromatic floral oils like jasmine, geranium, neroli and ylang-ylang, as well as cinnamon, pepper, pine, lemongrass, black pepper and cardamom.
GEMINI
Viktor & Rolf
The classic Flower bomb is an explosion of fresh, sweet notes of bergamot and green tea ideal for the bubbly and ever-changing personality of Gemini.
CANCER
LEO Maison Francis Kurkdjian VIRGO
Eccentric Leos will use this wild and spicy fragrance to let everyone know they’ve arrived to the party.
LIBRA
Chloé
The fruity and floral composition of this scent is a natural aphrodisiac for romantic Libras.
Prada
The comforting, sugary notes of caramel will make the sensitive crab feel at home.
Gucci
A balanced scent for practical yet high maintenance Virgo, this Gucci perfume includes a blend of notes of sandalwood and musk for grounding and chamomile for calming.
Nest
SCORPIO
Captivating like the stinging sign, this scent is an invitation into their inner secretive world.
Base Notes
Along with middle notes, base notes form the foundation of the fragrance. They help boost the lighter notes while adding more depth and resonance. Since they form the perfume’s foundation, base notes are very rich, heavy and long-lasting. They kick in after about 30 minutes and work together with the middle notes to create the fragrance’s scent. Popular base notes include vanilla, amber, musk, patchouli, moss and woody notes like sandalwood and cedarwood.
SAGITTARIUS Bond No.9
A perennial optimistic soul with a zest for life, this sign will greatly benefit from a spray of grapefruit and mandarin orange mixed with fresh basil.
AQUARIUS
Tom Ford
Hints of herbs and marine seaweed hide behind notes of incense and vanilla just like elusive Aquarius.
CAPRICORN
Aesop
Big on tradition and nostalgia, this Earth sign will be allured by this oriental fragrance that reminds of ancient Moroccan towns and spice markets.
PISCES
Giorgio Armani
A floral aquatic fragrance like this one brings the sign back to their natural habitat—the water—thanks to seductive sea aromas. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 25
INTERVIEW
POETRY IS MY FINAL
ENTERTAINMENT
SAYS FILM-MAKER IMITIAZ ALI, WHO HAS GIVEN TO INDIAN CINEMA SOME OF ITS MOST MEMORABLE AND UNUSUAL CHARACTERS BE IT GEET FROM JAB WE MET, JORDAN FROM ROCKSTAR, ANJALI FROM SOCHA NA THA, VEERA FROM
HIGHWAY, VERONICA FROM COCKTAIL AND SASYA FROM THE NETFLIX WEB SERIES SHE. WHAT TRIGGERS HIM TO CREATE THE CHARACTERS HE DOES AND WHY DOES HE CONSIDER TODAY’S CINEMA AS TODAY’S LITERATURE? MANJU RAMANAN CHATS UP WITH THE FILM-MAKER WHO IS IN THE PROCESS OF MAKING THE SEQUEL TO SHE ON NETFLIX. 26 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
YOU CALL TODAY’S CINEMA, TODAY’S LITERATURE. WHY? When Shakespeare wrote his plays, he did it for mass entertainment. He didn’t realise it would be considered literature. Today, we understand his work as literature. Today cinema is the New Globe theater for you. People are expressing themselves creatively and more people are consuming it. But I will distinguish between content and literature. A lot of social media posts don’t have legacy. Literature has to have legacy in it. It is not easily forgotten and is not just about pop or shock value with a forgettable shelf life. I’m sure, a lot of plays during Shakespeare’s time were written and faded into memory. But his work stayed. Today, much of the cinema we watch is forgettable, many songs will be forgotten too but what survives is literature. YOU AWARDED STRENGTH AND PERSPECTIVE TO THE WOMEN CHARACTERS YOU WROTE AND FILMED? I am happy that you say it. But, it just
My only brief to Kareena for Jab we Met was that Geet isn’t a talkative person. She feels that brilliant ideas keep coming to her every second and it is her duty to tell people around her about these ideas as soon as they occur to her. So Geet shares everything and with the speed with which these ideas come to her. represents the way I look at both the genders. I am not in films because I am educated into cinema. I am in it for the passion of film-making. I serve as a mirror to society and that is the way I see men and women in real life and so that is the way I write my characters too. And I don’t understand why others don’t see them the way I do. BUT, WHEN YOU STARTED OUT, WAS THERE A COMPULSION TO DEPICT WOMEN IN A CERTAIN WAY? It is an interesting question because it has two layers. I have noticed that, in real life, women are compelled to build on the stereotype of life. Each woman is trying to fit into a role that is set for her though, in her head, she is a rebel, and a scoundrel and knows that she is acting. And when the opportunity comes, you see that personality emerge. It is not
so with men. I feel that, as a filmmaker, I understand this trait very well and find it very sexy too. When I presented the women characters initially, I did get an on and off response from a producer or two stating that my women characters aren’t demure or are hard-nosed but somehow that never came in the way of work. In my first film Ayesha Takia played Anjali, exactly the kind of woman I am talking about. A stereotypical, nice girl but a rebel who does what she wants. Same with Geet in Jab we Met and so with Veronica from Cocktail. We have never dwelled into the back-stories of characters such as Veronica or Meera from Love Aajkal. Did these women have affairs, did they sleep around. Maybe, they did. Today’s audiences are growing to accept them and their stories. I feel that either be hypocritical or be extra truthful. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 27
INTERVIEW
MEN EVOLVE TOO IN YOUR FILMS AND THE TRIGGER IS USUALLY WOMEN WHO LEAD THEM TO THEIR GROWTH? In Rockstar, you will see that when Jordan is with Heer, he is fulfilled and non-creative and when she leaves him or he is alone, he is un fulfilled and broken hearted. And to fill up the vacuum he creates music that makes him a legend. There is a life of incidents and accidents that happen to you. So, there is an inner life you create if you and your heart is sensitive and many characters are created from this inner life. Those characters connect to people because they have characters like them in their inner worlds.
YOU HAVE MADE CHARACTERS FROM SMALL TOWNS LOOK COOL IN MAINSTREAM CINEMA? My characters come from where I come from. I have lived in a few different small towns before coming to Delhi and realised that Delhi has many villages and towns within it. And then coming to live in Mumbai and travelling the rest of the world opens up a perspective. My character is that of a man from Jamshedpur. I have a greater range of places I have known and the people there I have known and studied closely. THERE HASN’T EVER BEEN A GEET ONSCREEN? HOW DID YOU WRITE SUCH A MEMORABLE CHARACTER? My only brief to Kareena before the shot was that Geet isn’t a talkative person. She feels that brilliant ideas keep coming to her every second and it is her duty to tell people around her about these ideas as soon as they occur to her. So Geet shares everything and with the speed with which these ideas come to her. YOUR FILMS ARE ALWAYS ABOUT JOURNEYS – PHYSICAL JOURNEYS AND THEN THE JOURNEY WITHIN? Travelling is a physical and internal evolution. When you are not in your home and hearth and you are in a place in which people don’t know who you are, you behave differently. You are not restricted by role or character. That is what is seen in Tamasha. A man or a woman can surprise himself/herself when he is a location other than home. That is why journeys are so important.
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IRSHAD KAMIL AND YOU STARTED YOUR CAREERS TOGETHER AND CONTINUE TO WORK WITH EACH OTHER TELL US ABOUT YOUR EQUATION WITH HIM? We started our careers together. Subsequently he is the one person who is consistent in each of the 7 films I have made. There is a mutual agreement between us that if I find a better lyrics writer, I ‘ll work with him and he finds a better director, he will work with him. Our journeys have been together and we have contributed to each other’s growth through our collaboration. Also, he embodies my vision in cinema through his lyrics. We are two people who have a common interest in arts, literature and poetry and we can talk for hours together. For instance, when I read a good Mir couplet and I want to share it with someone like minded, it is him that I call. Or he would do the same. When we meet, we have a dil-ki-bhadaas- nikalnewala session about the people we met, about sentiments, about poetry and literature. At work, I have briefed him with English lines like ‘Words destroy what I want to say.” And he comes up with a song like “Jo bhi mai kehna chahoon, barbaad kare alfaaz mere.” He always will come up with 20 antaras that are deeper, meaningful and full of new ideas. WHAT DOES POETRY DO TO YOU? It is my final entertainment. It actually gives me inspiration, strength, reaches me straightaway and it could be in any language. Even if I don’t know the language and I am told what it means, it reaches me. It pierces me at any second. And it brings with its philosophy at times too. Sometimes it might not even address a higher truth, it could be kindling plain common sense. But it is my ultimate form of entertainment. YOU HAD TO REPEAT A YEAR IN SCHOOL BACK IN THE DAY. YOU HAVE STATED THAT IT WOKE YOU UP? In school, when I was in my 9th grade I had to repeat a year. I find it the most important and influential event of my life. I faced a lot of shame and humiliation. It changed me a lot and I actually started to use myself and my sense of understanding things. Before that I was only nodding to everything without really getting the meaning of things. That year brought me to myself. Mathematics was my weak subject and so, Science too. I started to use my mind and took to books to figure it all out. Instantly I became a good student and always remained so. I am glad that year happened to me. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 29
INTERVIEW
E H T IN
E U G A E L OF
! S D N E G LE SOUTH SUPERSTAR AKKINENI NAGARJUNA IS THE UNDISPUTED KING WHEN IT COMES TO RULING THE MARQUEE! HAVING REIGNED AS THE NUMERO UNO FOR OVER THREE DECADES, THE ACTOR ENJOYS A DEDICATED AND LOYAL FAN-FOLLOWING BOTH IN THE SOUTH AS WELL AS IN BOLLYWOOD. IN FACT, THE SCREEN - CHARMER – KNOWN FOR HIS ROMANTIC AND ACTION IMAGE – IS SET TO COMPLETE 35 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY SINCE HIS DEBUT AS A HERO IN VIKRAM (1986). AND GOING STRONG AT 61, NAGARJUNA IS STILL AMONG THE FITTEST AND THE BUSIEST ACTORS, GIVING THE YOUNGER HEROES A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY! IN AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE, THE SUPERSTAR TALKS ABOUT HIS JOURNEY SO FAR, HIS AGE-DEFYING SECRET AND PERFORMING ALL THE HIGH-OCTANE NEW-AGE ACTION SEQUENCES IN HIS LATEST RELEASE WILD DOG. EXCERPTS: 30 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
AFTER SO MANY YEARS OF REIGNING THE INDUSTRY AS A SUPERSTAR, IS THE EXCITEMENT OF GOING TO THE SETS AND FACING THE CAMERA THE SAME AS IT WAS IN YOUR INITIAL YEARS? Over the years a lot may have changed, but this is not one of them. I still look forward to my work with the same enthusiasm. I can’t sit at home quietly and this is something I love. So yes, there’s still a lot of excitement going to the movie sets. There’re new people, new energy, new roles and new challenges. And I enjoy it all as much. WHAT MAKES YOU SAY A YES TO A PARTICULAR MOVIE? I always want to visit and explore unchartered territories, do roles and genres that I haven’t done before and that’s very important for me. That’s what makes me say a yes to a film. Besides, I’d like to attempt all genres and would like to see myself in new roles. As an actor I’ve never held back from taking risks and I want to see myself do something new every day. And I’m happy that I’m offered those kinds too. BUT IS THERE ANY GENRE LEFT THAT YOU HAVEN’T TAPPED YET? No, but there are always interesting stories that keep coming in. WHAT WAS THE DRAW OF DOING WILD DOG? The film is inspired and based on the real case of National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) undercover operation to nab Yasin Bhatkal - the key operative of a terrorist outfit that was involved in several blasts across India - and bring him back to the country from Nepal where he was in hiding. So the story was interesting, though of course it’s been fictionalized and dramatized as well. It’s been a while since I’ve done action and I didn’t want to do the regular commercial action that has been done already. So when the script came and I saw the kind of action involved I found it to be very authentic and very new, and I immediately said a yes. We’ve not tried to commercialize the action here, and kept it realistic. I would call it the new-age commercial action. This is also larger-than-life, but when you see, you’ll know the difference. YOU HAVE PULLED OFF ALL THOSE HIGH-OCTANE ACTION SEQUENCES WITH SUCH AN AMAZING EASE, GIVING ALL THE YOUNGER GENERATION HEROES A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY… WHAT’S YOUR AGEDEFYING SECRET? Well, I’m the youngest one… The only secret is that I’m not aged at all! Someone’s given you the wrong information, the Wikipedia and the Google (laughs). THE MAKERS WERE PLANNING TO RELEASE THE FILM ON OTT, BUT THEN OPTED FOR A THEATRICAL
RELEASE ON APRIL 2… And I’m thrilled with this decision. This film was visually and soundwise designed to be enjoyed as a big screen experience. It’s a film meant to be enjoyed in the theatres, so I’m glad it’s reaching to the audience in the right format. TELL US MORE ABOUT BRAHMASTRA? When Karan (Johar) and Ayan (Mukerji) came to me and told me, ‘We want you to do the movie’, that in itself somehow made me say a yes. It’s not very lengthy, but it’s a very interesting and a powerful role and I’m happy that I accepted it. THERE’RE SO MANY CROSSOVERS HAPPENING BETWEEN BOLLYWOOD AND SOUTH INDUSTRY TODAY, BUT YOU ARE ONE OF THE FEW STARS WHO’VE ALWAYS ENJOYED A FAN-FOLLOWING IN
I always want to visit and explore unchartered territories, do roles and genres that I haven't done before and that's very important for me. That's what makes me say a yes to a film. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 31
INTERVIEW
Even I'm open to doing more Hindi films. If something new comes, of course I'd love to do it. Let the offers come, I'm ready. BOLLYWOOD TOO. SO WHEN ARE WE SEEING YOU IN A FULL-FLEDGED HINDI FILM ROLE AGAIN? Yes, I am often asked that question. It’s always heartwarming to go to places like Mumbai or Delhi, Goa… the people shower you with so much love and that is very special for me. The way they talk about my dubbed Hindi films and tell me they want to see me more in Bollywood, it’s very touching. Even I’m open to doing more Hindi films. If something new comes, of course I’d love to do it. Let the offers come, I’m ready. YOU ARE ONE OF THE FITTEST ACTORS… I haven’t been big time into work-outs as such, but I’ve been consistent with fitness. I discovered its importance at a very young age, and it’s been a lifestyle for me since. It’s not like I starve myself or anything, I eat good food. To be honest, I don’t really think much about it, it’s been more than 30 years now, so it’s definitely helped me in my films and also my personal life. WHAT ARE THE CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRY WHEN IT COMES TO NEWCOMERS, TO TECHNOLOGY… A huge change as far as the newcomers are concerned! Today’s newcomers are way too talented! It scares me sometimes you know, like just how talented they are. The other change is with regards to the technology. I wish people respect the technology and learn to use it like before they say, ‘I want this camera or that…’ and actors also need to be more responsible with it! 32 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR 100TH FILM WITH SON AKHIL (SOUTH STAR AKHIL AKKINENI)? I feel that 100 is just a number, but whether I like it or not, I know it will be made into some grand, benchmark project. So there’s a big pressure there and also I have to be careful before I say that this is my 100th film. I have done a lot of guest roles, cameos… so I don’t know what the 100th film will be. So that technicality I’ll use it to my advantage and then take a call if it’s my 100th film or not (laughs). So I’m still deciding on that. YOU HAVE ALSO DONE TV. SO, WHAT ABOUT OTT AND YOUR UPCOMING PROJECTS? Yes, I have done reality shows… three seasons of KBC (Telugu) and two seasons of Bigg Boss (Telugu). As for OTT, I’d definitely like to do a web-series. There’s also a film to be directed by Praveen Sattaru. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF TURNING DIRECTOR? Not really! The thought does cross my mind sometimes, but then I think of all the responsibility and I go ‘Wow, so I need this now’ and then I go back to acting. It’s like, ‘I’m doing a good job acting, so why not just stick to that for now’ (laughs). HOW ARE YOU IN REAL LIFE? I really don’t know how to answer that, I haven’t ever thought of it. I keep changing with time, mature…
there’re different thought processes, experiences and there’s constant evolving. I like to keep things very simple, not complicated at all. Whether it is home or work, I like things to be simple, if they get complicated, then I shy away from it. I get away from it, I like to sleep peacefully at night. That’s the kind of person I am. ARE THERE ANY FILMS YOU’VE REGRETTED DOING? Not films, I’ve never regretted doing any films, but I have regretted working with some people. There have been a few times when the experience was not good, but you have to complete the film once you get into it. So there have been times when you get up in the morning and feel like ‘I don’t want to go to work’ but then you do because you are committed. So the regret is working with those people, not the film ever. HOW DO YOU LOOK BACK AT THE JOURNEY SO FAR? There’s a quote by Winston Churchill that I believe in and often use, ‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts!’ It’s the courage with what you try to achieve that is most important, you have to keep trying and that’s what I live by. So don’t take success to head or failure to heart. Like, it’s not that I’m not anxious ahead of Wild Dog releasing, of course, I am, but you know you have to take the people’s verdict and I respect that. However, irrespective, we have to keep trying and keep making films that are close to the heart.
I've never regretted doing any films, but I have regretted working with some people. There have been a few times when the experience was not good, but you have to complete the film once you get into it. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 33
LOOKS BOOK
She
Walks in
Look-1 Diana Penty looks like a boss lady in this magenta power suit with a bralette twist. She paired this Alina Anwar power suit with a pair of A-line pants in the same color. She let her slightly middle part hair down for her glam look and teamed it with a hot pink eyeshadow with a subtle tone blush and a nude lip. Credits -Outfit: Alina Anwar
y t u a e B
The lissome Diana Penty is elegance personified! Here are 5 looks on her uber chic style!
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Look-2 Diana Penty looks stunning in this taupe brown bodysuit paired with high waist jeans. To complete her look she went for ultra chic glasses. The color coordination looks effortless. Photo: Aishwarya Parker
Look-3
Master the ganji game with Diana Penty. Diana looks effortless yet super chic in a white ganji paired with boyfriend jeans. Credits -Photo: Rahul Jhangiani | Hair&Makeup: Namrata Soni | Styled by: Namrata Alexander
Look-5
Diana Penty looks mesmerizing in this blue ruffled sleeve creation by Aza Fashions. This coordinate set stood out for the ruffle details.
Credits - Outfit: Diya Rajvir
Look-4
Credits -Outfit: Sharannya
Diana Penty looks absolutely ravishing in this skirt suit and polo dress by Sharannya. She styled her hair into a messy bun, adding statement earrings. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 35
INTERVIEW
The Animal Whisperer
I
am scheduled to meet Emirati business tycoon and animal lover and Chairman of the Belhasa Group, Saif Belhasa at his wooden majlis at the Fame Park in Al Khawaneej. Whilst we wait for him, a hustling ostrich with its bright coloured wings and the giraffe roam in the pen outside. Running between them are some truly beautiful deer and a line of peacocks that perch in the balconies. Outside, in an enclosure, a set of small mongooses look at us curiously while we faintly hear the call of the wild cats. I am told that the place has a Liger (a cross between the lion and the tiger) and a Zonkey (a cross between a zebra and a donkey). Three iron sculptures at the entrance, shipped all the way from Thailand guard the place that is a thicket of trees, shrubs and foliage – these futuristic warriors seem to be characters from Star Wars. This is just a prelude to what we could expect from a farm that has some of the most exotic animals in Dubai, a passion project of a businessman who dabbles in over 60 businesses with over 10,000 people working for him. Additionally, he is a scholar pursuing his Phd in Egypt. During pre-pandemic times, he would fly down every month to Egypt for classes. Today he manages with online classes. A proud dad and a family man, so profound is his love for knowledge that, talking to him is nothing short of a class in zoology, time-management, humanity and philosophy. Some of his pets are named after luxe brands namely the panther who is called Cartier and the crocodile who is called La Coste. Excerpts from the interview. Manju Ramanan 36 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
CREDIBILITY, INTEGRITY, COLLABORATION, ACCOUNTABILITY, RESPECT, EXCELLENCE AND DIVERSITY – YOU DEFINE THE BELHASA GROUP WITH THESE WORDS? Yes, because that is what I believe in. Good work comes with these qualities. I have over 10,000 employees and I reach work earlier than they do after completing my morning prayers. We need to leave a mark on the world and only by practising these qualities, we can achieve our goal. This is what I teach my staff and also why my name in the market is respected. The door is open for us. We are taking the group to another level. During pandemic, we grew. We opened 4 new companies with different businesses. HOW DO YOU SEE 2021? 2021 will be a challenging year. The Corona pandemic is still there and we still need to protect ourselves. Next year, it should be better. TELL US ABOUT THE CROSS-BREEDING IN THE FARM. YOU HAVE A LIGER? Yes, I do. We had a small tiger and a lion and both of them got friendly and then the lioness delivered and we had a Liger. He is seven years old and very strong. HOW DID YOUR TRYST WITH THE ANIMAL KINGDOM BEGIN?
to choose the photographs and videos. I wake up at 5:3o am and go to bed at 11:30 pm. DID YOU FIND ANIMAL LOVERS IN THE CELEBS WHO HAVE VISITED THE FARM? Many celebs love animals. Joelle Mardinian who was here recently, loves animals. She came with her family. Arab people from Brazil and footballers have loved the farm. Bollywood superstar Salman Khan made me tired in a nice way. He stood in front of the lion for over an hour and we waited for him. He loves the animals. He spent 5 hours walking around the farm. So, did the then Indian cricket team captain Mahendrasingh Dhoni. His wife loved the lions. YOU ENSURE THAT THE ANIMALS ARE HOUSED IN TOP FORM? Yes, we try to take care of them with the air-conditioners, right food, trainers, cleaners, guards and that entails a lot of work. Our animals are happy and in good shape. There are regular fights between me and my accountant for spending all my money in Fame Park. I am yet to get a rhinoceros and an elephant. I need to arrange spaces for them. ARE THE ANIMALS MOODY? SHARE SOME INSTANCES. I love the chimpanzees. I brought them here when they were very small. They are similar to human beings, only seven times stronger than us. One of them, Princess has a page on YouTube and Instagram and has followers too. Animals are moody. One of my chimps throws sand when he is moody. He threw sand at football legend Messi when he visited recently.
My first pet though was a dog and then I was attracted to horses. But then I developed an allergy and had to stay away from them. Then I started collecting wild animals, monkeys, deer and different animals. We also have a Tigon. Its father is the tiger and mother, a lioness. We also have a Zonkey – Zebra and donkey cross-breed. I like uniqueness and do something or the other in the farm. HOW DID OWNING SO MANY ANIMALS CHANGE YOU AS A PERSON? Twelve years ago, I was in South Africa to buy a farm and enjoyed time there with the animals. I went to shoot deer to feed it to the lions. We don’t shoot for leisure, we shoot to eat or feed. Once I started the shelter here, I don’t shoot animals. I remember my pets and can’t get myself to kill another animal. There are expeditions there where you can shoot a lion or a rhino sitting in a helicopter. I would never do that. They are my pets now and they changed me. When life changes you, you feel happier.
YOU CHOSE TO KEEP THE FARM EXCLUSIVE FOR FAMILY AND GUESTS? Yes, it is not open to the public. The Fame Park is called a revolving door for celebs when they visit the UAE. It is only for those who are fond of animals and have a connect with them. I choose who comes to my farm. We train and breed animals here and we feel happy to be connected to them. I always wanted this place to be private but some celeb guests visited and then Salman Khan came here with more than 60 people that included family and friends. All this made the place well-known. I will be soon adding fishes to my collection. I am building a huge lake.
YOU ARE PURSUING YOUR DOCTORATE? Yes, I am a student in Egypt pursuing my PhD and used to travel every other week there but the pandemic changed it all. I have online classes now. I feel that you have to be strong in this life and have to leave this life in a better way than the world you were born into. I aim to do something unique in my life and in my business that people will talk about us forever. I am always working. There is no relaxing time per se. I enjoy being here and it takes me out of my work. YOU ARE A BUSINESS TYCOON, OWN AN EXOTIC ANIMALS FARM, ARE A SERIOUS STUDENT AS WELL AS A FAMILY MAN. HOW DO YOU SWING IT ALL? I give time to my wife, my little daughter and my children. I take them out on Friday on the yacht, jet skiing or fishing. My daughter comes to Fame park and we feed animals, do our barbeques and I give her work to do too. She enjoys it here. Everything in life is possible with good discipline, intent and planning. Also, I give time for my social media – April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 37
INTERVIEW
RISE OF THE A much-loved name on the TV and movie circuit, for popular Pakistani starturned-producer Asad Siddiqui there’s no greater joy than being around the camera – be it facing it or behind it! And while he continues to wow audience on screen, the actor-singer keen to provide new and upcoming talent a platform to perform has recently launched his own production house too along with wife, actress Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui. We recently caught up with Asad and in an exclusive interview with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, the star talks all about his love for acting, upcoming projects and also reveals the role he loves Zara most in!
STAR!
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How did you start your journey in the entertainment industry? Did you always aspire to be an actor? Yes, I’d always wanted to be an actor. I started with doing small appearances in television commercials, whilst trying my luck in other walks of life. And one day I got a call for Baraat series. I gave my first audition for that and luckily got selected. I liked the idea of it, so joined the bandwagon and it paid well, so I thought, why not! As time has passed, I have realized there is nothing else I can do. I don’t feel more alive anywhere else on this planet, as much as I do in front and around the camera. And now, behind the camera as well. What would you consider as the landmark project or role professionally? After Baraat series, I think Surkh Chandni was the serial that was the turning point for me as an actor. I really discovered myself a lot during the process of that show. Hats off to my director Shahid Shafat. What do you enjoy doing more, TV or movies? It doesn’t matter to me. I just love acting, be it TV or films. Yes, movie is a big platform and it has different protocols, but yes I love doing them both. Can’t pick one.
How do you both handle the pressures of being a couple that’s constantly in the spotlight? To be honest; there is no pressure. We work with all honesty and stay true to our crafts. We make sure we don’t pretend to be happy. Even if we are sad or down, we always make sure to be authentic about our behaviour and feelings with each other and even in front of the world. We like to be very private anyway.
IF YOU ARE CONSISTENT IN
THIS JOURNEY, YOU REACH EXACTLY WHERE YOU WANT TO BE. SOMETIMES EVEN FARTHER! IT’S ALL ABOUT YOUR DETERMINATION.
Tell us about your singing projects? Well, I do have a couple of things lined up. I want to work with emerging talent as of now. I think it’s a great way to collaborate with artistes who don’t have a platform. You’ll get to hear them very soon, InshaAllah! You’ve recently turned producer, so what’s the vision for the production house? Yes, we recently opened up our own production house called ‘The Rise’. This is a place for the youth, for the ones with no platform. And we are looking at producing content for both - digital as well as for TV. I am really excited about it because there is a lot in the pipeline. A lot of scripts that we are working on. You and Zara (actress, wife Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui) make for an adorable and loved couple, what’s the secret? There is no secret. We are just honest and loyal to each other. We make sure to give each other space and really respect each other and our work ethics. At home, we divide and rule (laughs).
Zara as a wife or Zara as a co-star? Zara as both - Zara as everything! Dono hee bohat achi hai.
What is the lesson you’ve learnt along the journey that you hold dear? Sabr and shuker. Also that if you are consistent in this journey, you reach exactly where you want to be. Sometimes even farther! It’s all about your determination. And I give all this credit to my parents who brought us up like this. What is the one thing you most like about being so famous and the one thing that you don’t? I love everything about being famous (laughs). I enjoy it! Although it does takes a huge part of your private life and everything becomes public. Anybody and everybody gets the right to comment on your life. I don’t like this invasion. But at the same time its self-realisation that nothing is permanent. And at the end of the day, it’s amazing when you see people loving you and praying for you. I feel really blessed. And that’s all what matters.
What is the real Asad like? What do you do to destress? The real Asad is very simple. I’m pretty old fashioned and more of a family man. I meditate. I spend a lot of time with family. I try and indulge myself in healthy habits to deal with physical and mental exertion. I do kickboxing - it cleans away all my frustration. I play guitar, watch movies. I think all of these really soothe me. Any plans to direct? Tell us about your upcoming projects… Well, direction not as of yet. I think there is a lot more that I need to learn as an actor and then as a producer. My upcoming projects are the ones I am really excited about. One is for Geo Entertainment television, directed by Ahsan Talish called Aye Musht e Khaak. It’s a great script. And secondly, I just signed a film under the banner of Sakina Samo films which will be directed by Sakina Samo herself and will be released internationally. So yes, I’m very excited about these two projects. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 39
INTERVIEW
Sharad
on Song!
After wowing audience on the small screen, one of television’s most-loved names and popular star Sharad Malhotra is now ready to unveil a new facet of his personality. We caught up with the actor who was recently in Dubai and in an exclusive chat with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, Sharad reveals all about his plans of making a singing debut soon
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ne of television’s top stars, Sharad Malhotra has been reigning hearts and TRPs alike since he made his debut almost 15 years ago. Currently, the actor’s been creating quite a buzz with the crackling chemistry he shares with his Naagin 5 co-star Surbhi Chandna in their music video of Bepanah Pyaar. And while this music video only had him face the camera, looks like he’ll soon be getting behind the Mic soon! Admitting to have always been fascinated and inclined towards music, we asked the actor about taking his love for music a step forward and Sharad reveals that a song is already on the cards. “You know I haven’t spoken about it to anyone yet, but I do have plans to get a single out soon,” he says. Elaborating further, he add’s, “I have been working on this song for a while now with a friend. We’ve composed the song, written the lyrics… It’s an amazing track and I just have to record and shoot it now.” The actor who’s also been learning to play the guitar shares that the song was composed in less than an hour. “Not just the technicalities, music is so much more about finding that connect with people and creating something that stirs an emotion and that’s what I hope to do with my song,” says Sharad. The actor - best-k nown for his shows Kasam Tere Pyaar Ki, Muskaan, Banoo Main Teri Dulhan and most of all the historical epic Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap 40 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
that had him play the titular role - was most recently seen in Naagin 5 where he played a character with grey shades for the first time. And Sharad confesses that ditching his romantic good-guy image for the fantasy thriller was a leap of faith for him. “It was a huge risk and initially I was a little hesitant about playing Veeranshu Singhania. He was like the bad boy with a good heart, but I was apprehensive about being accepted in a role with grey shades as people often find it hard to accept you in another image. In fact, it took me two-three days to settle into the character.” However he is thrilled with the positive response the character garnered. “Yes, I had trusted the makers completely and believed in Ekta’s (producer Ekta Kapoor) vision and it was great, revamping, reinventing and rediscovering myself as an
actor with this role! Now people can now visualize me in a new avatar.” Not rushing on to hop on the OTT bandwagon, Sharad says, “I’m open to OTT too. But I’m not a planner and go more with my gut instinct. So when it happens, it will.” He however insists that TV will not take a backseat, “TV is my first love. When I look back, I feel I’ve played so many interesting characters that are a part of me, that people have accepted me in and given me so much love for. Universe has been kind,
and though I don’t know what I will do tomorrow, I believe that things do just fall in place. Over the years, I have also polished the craft, gotten better.” What about tackling the pressures of personal life being under constant spotlight? “That goes with the territory. The key is to not let it become a pressure and just enjoy each day as it comes. Also we don’t take it seriously. If you are just true to who you are, there’s no pressure as there’s no image to maintain. What you see is what you get,” he says. And social media, especially with wife Ripci Bhatia? “I let Ripci take the call if she would be okay sharing something about our personal life or not. There are some aspects of my life I’m open to sharing with my fans, but not my life.” In Dubai with Ripci, Sharad also tells us that this was the longest he’s stayed here and he hopes to return soon. “I love the city and every time I come here, it feels like the city has grown so much from the previous time. Hopefully I will be back soon.” So how about shooting the music video for his debut single here, we suggest! “Now that I would definitely love to, fingers crossed,” he smiles.
Photographer: GM Saqib
All About Grace She is a young dancer from the UK and has been part of Bollywood films such as Street Dancer 3D, music videos and is a pop singer. Like Katrina Kaif and Nora Fatehi, she too dreams of making a mark in Bollywood. A tet-a-tete with Grace Rhodes. Manju Ramanan WHAT BRINGS YOU TO DUBAI? Music brings me here. I am currently collaborating with local music composers here. In pandemic times, Dubai seems safer than anywhere else. I am using my time to create content in music, though my training has been in the performing arts. WHERE ARE YOU FROM AND HOW DID YOU GET INTO FILMDOM? I am a country girl. I am from Worcestershire, a small village in the UK and went to London to study when I turned 18. I learnt performing arts and was part of the theatre scene in London. I got scouted as a singer for Uprise Records founded by Ositadimma “Osi” Umenyiora a Britishborn sports pundit and former American Football defensive end who played
in the National Football League (NFL). They released my first single and music video ‘MeToo’ on September 11th, 2019 which focuses on supporting and raising awareness further for the #MeToo movement for Women, Men and Children. The ‘Me Too’ music video was shot in LA with established producers, directors, dancers in the music industry and was released on the Kondzilla Music Platform which has over 51.9 million subscribers. When I watched Bollywood films, I found resonance and was keen to explore my talents there. And then I got Street Dancer 3D. WHAT DID YOU LEARN BEING ON THE SETS OF A BOLLYWOOD DANCE FILM? Street Dancer 3D was a
dream experience. I worked as a dancer with Dharmesh and got to work closely with Varun Dhawan and Nora Fatehi. It was such a nice unit. The energy was amazing and contagious. Working with Remo sir is a dream come true for any dancer and it was the same with me. I just love Norah. She goes into the detail of dance and brings her experiences of being multicultural and multilingual into the dance she does. She fuses things together that is amazing to see. WHAT ABOUT LEARNING HINDI? After Street Dancer 3D, people started offering me work. I have two projects Pardes and Watan. I have been trying
to balance my music, studio and Bollywood work. In the previous film I played an English girl, so I didn’t have to really speak Hindi. But yes, in the “item song”, I had to lip-sync in Hindi and sat with a translator. Now I have to learn everything. But if Katrina Kaif and Nora learnt Hindi, so can I. I am really fond of Tiger Shroff and Ranveer Singh – they are great dancers. So is Shraddha Kapoor. I love the work of Arijit Singh, Guru Randhawa and Raftaar. I want to work with Karan Johar and Farah Khan. In music, I was listening to Honey Singh’s funk track recently and this is the music I heard in Brazil too. This is the right time for people like me. I aim to bring fusion of world cultures to the work I do. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 41
INTERVIEW
B
s e i r a d n ou NO BAR!
One of the most-respected names in the entertainment industry, Pakistani actorfilmmaker Jawed Sheikh enjoys a fan-following that spans across generations and boundaries. After all who can forget the actor play screen-dad to leading Bollywood stars too, from Shah Rukh Khan to Shahid Kapoor and from Preity Zinta to Ranbir Kapoor! Reigning the theatre and small screen with as much élan as he does the big screen with his formidable presence, the senior star adds an air of elegance and class to every character he essays. In an exclusive chat with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, Jawed Sheikh talks about his journey so far, reveals his plans of penning an autobiography and we also ask him about his favourite screen-son! 42 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
PHOTOGRAPHER: GM SAQIB
Jawed Sheikh commands an air of elegance even when seated comfortably in a quiet corner of a luxury Downtown Dubai hotel. Dressed impeccably well, sporting a black jacket and sunglasses, but even with the mask on, the aura is undeniable and the deep baritone unmistakable as he greets us as warmly as the pleasant weather outside. And as we launch into a candid tête-à-tête, the affable star gives us a glimpse into his real world, regales us with some cherished anecdotes and makes some interesting revelations.
DUBAI DIARIES
“Dubai is my second home and whenever there’s an opportunity I fly down here. This time it was to discuss a new project for an OTT platform,” says the senior star. However the actor never books himself into a hotel room. “I always stay in a serviced apartment as I love to cook! Be it here or London, Paris or New York… In fact the first thing I do is go for grocery shopping and I particularly love it in Dubai… I enjoy making my own breakfast, lunch and dinner.” As for the cuisine, he adds, “Italian, French is most preferred. I don’t make desi khaana. I also love hosting friends and guests and I cook for them myself.”
BOLLYWOOD INNINGS!
Not many know this, but while Jawed Sheikh made his Bollywood debut with Shikhar in 2005 playing Shahid Kapoor’s father, he was actually set to essay Kabir Bedi’s role in the 1988 Rekha-starrer Khoon Bhari Maang. “I had to back out of Khoon Bhari Maang due to some personal issues a few days before mahurat. Thankfully
Rakeshji (actor-filmmaker Rakesh Roshan) understood. I finally made my Bollywood debut 17 years later with Shikhar.” In Bollywood, he went on to do films like Jaan-E-Mann, Om Shanti Om, Tamasha, Jannat, Namastey London, among many others and Happy Bhag Jayegi even had the star’s daughter Momal Sheikh act alongside him. “I was doing so many films there back then, that I settled in Mumbai for a long while. I had a very good experience there.”
FAVOURITE SCREEN SON!
I AM IN THE MOOD TO WRITE A BOOK. I HAVE HAD A VERY INTERESTING LIFE, SO MANY ASPECTS, SO MANY UPS AND DOWNS FROM HOW MY CAREER STARTED IN PAKISTAN TO MY CAREER IN BOLLYWOOD. THERE’S A LOT TO SHARE.
The actor’s own son Shehzad Sheikh is a noted director (of Phaans fame), but we ask him about his favourite screen son? “How can a father choose a favourite child? Shah Rukh, Shahid... Ranbir they all have been wonderful…” he adds. “I knew Rishi (late actorfilmmaker Rishi Kapoor) from a tour we had done together in 1988. His son Ranbir and my son are in fact born on the same day, so working in Tamasha was special. Ranbir is a very well-brought up young man.”
DIRECTOR’S CUT
“I was planning to direct my first Bollywood film, but halaat kuch aise ho gaye, I had to move back to Pakistan,” shares the filmmaker. “I did keep travelling though. In fact, the music and post production for my directorial Yeh Dil Aap ka Huwa (2002) was done there. I have directed seven films so far, but the dream I still hold most close is that of directing a film in Bollywood and doing a comedy there too.”
BIOGRAPHY VS BIOPIC
With more than four decades in the industry – of doing theatre, television and films - the actor admits that his life has been a rather eventful one. So, what about a film on his life? “May be at some point! I am in the mood to write a book. I have had a very interesting life, so many aspects, so many ups and downs from how my career started in Pakistan to my career in Bollywood. There’s a lot to share,” he smiles.
MATTERS OF THE HEART!
Dashing and dynamic, the star has enjoyed a huge female fan following across generations! “Yes, I’ve always had a huge women fan-base and I was loved by them. What can I say, I guess I’m lucky. I respect women. The world is incomplete without them, they command our highest respect and I hold them all in high regard.” Married once to Zeenat Mangi, wasn’t marriage on his mind ever again post-divorce? “After Salma (Agha), there’s been no one. Maybe I am used to staying alone, aadat ho gayi hai, maybe that’s why I never thought of marriage,” he replies candidly.
TRADE SECRETS
“There’re no secrets as such! I enjoy life, believe in positivity and fitness. As for longevity professionally, well I believe that we have to evolve and grow constantly. Have an open mind to the younger generations. Roles-wise I fit into all kinds and all genres. I can sing, dance, play intense roles, do comedy!” And any words of advice for the new gens? “Practice the three Ps of Professionalism – Passion, Patience, Punctuality!”
OTT CALLING
“OTT is the future and I would definitely be acting in and directing projects for the digital platforms in the near future,” he says.
BEST COMPLIMENT
The star says it came from “one of the greatest actors of our sub-continent - Yusuf Saab” (legendary star
Dilip Kumar) and adds that it has been one of his biggest achievements too. “I first met him in London at a common friend’s dinner. As we were being introduced, he recognized me from one of my shows (Ankahi, 1982) and shared how they (Dilip Kumar and wife Saira Banu) were planning to watch one episode, but had ended staying up all night and finished all 13 episodes. That for me was the biggest compliment I could’ve ever gotten.”
AUTOGRAPH OVER SELFIES!
“Yes I do miss the autograph age! I don’t associate with the social media too much, though I did try. There was a different charm back then. Today just about anyone can have an access to our lives. Nothing is sacrosanct!”
LOOKING BACK
“I’ve seen it all through my journey – success, struggles, highs, lows, good times, hard times… I have seen bad days in Pakistan, when after a few of my films flopped, people told me ‘Aap Karachi vaapis chale jaaye, I refused to budge. I went on to make one of the most expensive films back then, the first one in Dolby, overnight things changed, so I believe in just being positive and doing my work to the best of my capabilities.” Any regrets? “Back then I did so many films that I should not have done, but at that time those films kept my kitchen and home running. So, no regrets,” signs off the star. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 43
FEATURE
Where to Go This ramadan?
The blessings of the Holy Month of Ramadan are upon us. Here are a few curated places to check out during the season, that offer you appetizing food, mouth watering desserts and let you soak in this season’s environment.
Emirates Palace
T
his Ramadan, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi embraces the holy month with a host of lavish experiences. From delightful Iftar spreads and Suhoor menus to rejuvenating spa treatments and enticing getaway packages, Emirates Palace is the perfect place to gather loved ones and share unforgettable moments. Mark the holy month with sumptuous Iftar or Suhoor delicacies at any location of your choice in Abu Dhabi, served by Emirates Palace Catering by Dubai World Trade Centre. The stellar team of culinary maestros have curated bespoke menus featuring traditional and authentic favourites, available for takeaway or delivery.
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Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort-Spa
H
otel guests and visitors will have their pick of the property’s much-loved and award-winning restaurants, with venues serving up a great choice of traditional Iftars banquets for the Holy Month of Ramadan.
The exciting and eclectic tastes of the Holy Month of Ramadan will be on offer to diners at Brasserie 2.0 as part of the venue’s daily iftar buffet. Offering Emirati favourites alongside dishes from around the region and beyond, the Iftar menu has been carefully designed to cater to fasting guests as well as non-Muslim diners who can choose from healthy options or indulge in hearty meals along with a wide range of sweet desserts.
The St. Regis
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rom the relaxed beachfront vibes of the Suhoor lounge to revitalising massage packages at Iridium Spa, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort’s upcoming Ramadan experiences are designed to ensure you’re able to celebrate the month while enjoying world-renowned hospitality. This Ramdan, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Beach is serving a special alfresco Suhoor experience allowing guests to enjoy the relaxed ambience of one of the Gulf’s most idyllic stretches of coast.
Special treat Coconut Custard Pudding By Amjad Mallick (Chef de Partie) China Club Restaurant, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Ingredients - Coconut milk powder : 100gms - White Sugar : 150gms - Whipping cream : 50gms - Eggs : 1 - Condensed milk : 15ml Method - Take a thick bottom saucepan and on low heat melt 75gms of sugar. Once the sugar turns golden brown, pour it into the custard baking tray and set aside. - To the same pan add coconut milk and the remaining 75gms of sugar, cook on low flame until the mixture turns warm and the sugar melts. Turn off the heat, add condensed milk and egg into it, whisk thoroughly. -Add the whisked mixture to the custard baking tray with caramelized sugar. - Bake the custard for 60 minutes at 150 C - After cooling for 2 hours, refrigerate. - Cut the slice as per your liking, garnish with strawberry slices, almond flakes and serve chilled. 0
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FEATURE
Ramadan
Mubarak
Here’s how Dubai celebrates the pious season.
Mr. Anis Sajan AND Mrs.RubINA Sajan with THEIR SonS Azhar and Sahil Sajan
Anis Sajan Vice Chairman and Managing Director Danube Group
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amadan is a holy and blessed month where you dedicate yourself to the Almighty and families get together to pray and celebrate the season. Working days are shorter and there is more time at home with family. We, as a family, break the fast together and bond with family members and share our experiences. We discuss how the day went. Sometimes the day goes well and sometimes it is tough, especially if you have a day out in the sun during the season, at times you might get a headache. After the breaking of the fast, we do a group prayer with the family again. Most importantly, thisw is also the time for charity. It is also the culture of this country. We usually don’t talk about charity when we do charity but this season sees a lot of giving. Amongst the five rules of Islam, Zakat is key and this is the time to give back to the world in whatever capacity that suits your pocket. It need not be money necessarily. Many people don’t have the availability of food and we distribute food to blue-collared workers during this time. 46 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Photography : Yasir Arafat
About breaking of the fast, I am careful about it. There is a human tendency that you go bersek while eating. There are people who eat fried food and end up with acidity. I am conscious about my health and diet and break the fast with yogurt, rotis, a date and a glass of water. For the main course I ensure that I consume a portion of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food because you need protein. For sehri, which is the early morning breaking of the fast, I prefer to have banana, milk and some non-vegetarian food. It is the most important meal of the day since that is what gets you going. What you eat depends on person to person. For me, this meal sets the 15 hours of fasting routine for this season
E
very year when Ramadan comes, the whole of the Muslim world pauses and I am really looking forward to it for both the spiritual time and also the time with my husband and children. We really thought the pandemic would be over by now and that we would be able to meet our grandparents and older members of the extended family but sadly, we still have to use social distancing and resort to apps such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams to spend time with them. But, we are keeping spirits high because everything that the month encompasses is, about giving and so even though we still can’t be together, we can send items to one another, send greetings to each other and be together during iftar thanks to technology. For example, last year I created an event where I had my aunties and cousins to be with me virtually and it was a beautiful experience. I am very excited because now that my children are 15 months and are no longer babies, it will be their first proper Ramadan experience. Once Ramadan finishes, we have Eid and my children receive little amounts of money from family members, which is really cute. Sadly, this will be missed but again I will try to organise virtual activities and I will also try to get my children out. It is the first time we will celebrate outdoors. We also try to give money to those in need during this time, so it is a lovely time to give back to society. As a film-maker, I would like to shoot something for the Holy Month and Eid to have memories with my children so they can remember what it was like to celebrate Ramadan and Eid during a global pandemic. Though it is not the usual celebration, I feel very blessed to celebrate this special time with my family.
Nayla al Khaja Film-maker and Content Creator
April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 47
FEATURE
F
asting is not about a diet of burning calories, it is about burning ego, pride and sins. I, Salma Khan being a practicing Muslim believe in that. I do celebrate Ramadan with my family and friends and usually, my entire family comes to Dubai and we all share the blessings of this holy month together. I believe in sharing so yes, we do have guests almost every day since we welcome an unexpected number of guests in our Ramadan tent. So, all the ladies including me prepare the specialties of this month by ourselves. The spirit is different, the days and nights are different and the feeling is spiritual during the whole month.
Besides being a fashion designer, I do have a lot of responsibility towards my Eid collections and people expect masterpieces for the big occasion. I do manage to balance between prayers & ibadah, my family and of course my clients. As we all know, it has been pandemic since last year and we are not able to celebrate this holy month in full spirit. Families were not allowed to have gatherings at home and tents were not set, so, the spirit of charity was laid back and this year seems to be almost the same. I hope and pray this will get better by next year and we experience the same festivities we all have seen and celebrated since our childhood. 48 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Salma Khan Celebrity Fashion Designer
Photography : Yasir Arafat
Sayed Habib Director - Business Development, Franchise and E-Commerce Danube Home
The Holy month of Ramadan is here and it is the most-awaited Islamic month that offers a beautiful opportunity to cut down on undesirable habits, practice selfrestraint, introduce a healthier lifestyle, be more compassionate, empathetic & generous towards the less fortunate, strengthen self-discipline, and achieve spiritual re-awakening. It is the time when Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset. That means if you are fasting, you have to go through the day without drinking your morning coffee and give up your favorite afternoon meal. But planning and preparing your body ahead of the month can make the transition a lot easier. Therefore, like all Muslim households, we also start our preparations in the lead up to Ramadan. Usually Ramadan is a month of heightened social activities for Muslims when families get together to break the fast and offer prayers together. But this year, people have adapted to the new realities of life and have tweaked their preparations for the Holy Month in the wake of restrained social mobility and constraints on large gatherings. Ramadan is a perfect time to strengthen my connection with family and God. It is also a time celebrate the spirit of togetherness with friends, family, and colleagues. That is why we do all the preparation for Ramadan together as a family. • Sit Together and Reflect: With everyone spending a lot of time at home this year as well, we would like to plan all the activities well in advance to make Ramadan more rewarding for all of us. Amid family get-togethers and prayer sessions, we identify opportunities to sit together and reflect on transforming and reforming ourselves both spiritually and otherwise. • Praying Together: Nothing in my mind brings families closer than praying together with family members. With
the Teraweeh time shortened in mosques due to COVID restrictions being in place, I will be making use of extra time to offer prayer at home. This would help in making familial bonds stronger and build up collective spirituality. • Study Together: Ramadan is the time to share inspirational stories of Islam with children. This month gives us a golden opportunity to familiarize children with the beautiful teachings of Islam, so that they are up-to-date with everything they should be aware of. This helps us as well to stay steadfast in our lives. • Cook Together: Suhoor and Iftaar time can build a lot of excitement. But it is the time spent with family members preparing the meals, which makes the experience worthwhile. We learn together and come closer when are able to do things together. • Give Charities Together: We start putting aside the money even before Ramadan begins, which is used to give charitable donations to noble causes we closely identify with. During moments of togetherness in Ramadan, we try to identify opportunities for helping out those who need help. The purpose of Ramadan is to understand the spirit of sacrifice and devotion. At the personal level, I try to reduce my meal portions from routine diet before Ramadan begins to get my body used to eating less food. I also try to reduce my dependence on food heavy on salt and sugar. It always helps to get used to two meals a day habit before Ramadan begins. I also start to reduce my caffeine intake before Ramadan comes so that when the Holy Month begins, my dependence on caffeine is already more manageable. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 49
FEATURE
South flavours hit Pan-India! With an increasing number of South films having their Hindi-dubbed versions being released simultaneously like any other big-budgeted Bollywood film to target a wider audience across India, star crossovers and the filmmakers finding ways of tapping largely unchartered territories up North, the lines between the South film industries and Bollywood now seem to be slowly blurring. Aakanksha Naval-Shetye explores this trend: It was in 2015 that SS Rajamouli’s Bahubali: The Beginning was released across India. Originally made in Telugu and Tamil, the film’s Hindi-dubbed version - backed by Bollywood bigwig Karan Johar - was simultaneously marketed, promoted, and released Pan-India just like any other mega-budget Bollywood film. Unlike a limited release usually witnessed by regional movies across India, this one was released across multiplexes and given prime-show timings, like any other Hindi film. While the film went on to break box-office records that year, the film’s lead actor, the South star Prabhas too became a household name overnight even among the Hindi audience. Catapulting his fame across India, it resulted in the actor getting a wider fan-base in territories that until then had largely been untapped by South heroes. The success of the film was matched equally with the release of its highlyanticipated sequel Bahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017). The South film enjoyed unprecedented success Pan-India and worldwide. The film’s benchmark success has since then encouraged more filmmakers down South to tap more than just the South markets and aim at a Pan-India release for their films. Rajinikanth’s Kaala (2018) that co-starred Nana Patekar was also a Pan-India release. And an increasing number of South films even with a primarily South star cast are now being aimed for Pan-India release and like the name suggests the films are aiming at making their Presence Across Nation. What’s more, Bollywood production houses too are making the most by knocking on the South frontiers and backing films aimed at South audience. 50 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Waiting in the wings
SS Rajamouli’s upcoming Telugu film RRR starring N.T. Rama Rao Jr and Ram Charan is being prepped for a Pan-India release. Keen to woo a wider audience, the filmmaker has even roped in leading Bollywood names – Ajay Devgn and Alia Bhatt. Bollywood heavy-weight T-Series is bankrolling Radha Krishna Kumar’s Prabhas and Pooja Hegde starrer Radhe Shyam which is simultaneously being shot in Telugu and Hindi. Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has been roped in opposite Prabhas for Nag Ashwin directed yet-untitled sci-fi flick. Tentatively called Prabhas 21, the makers announced that the film will be a pan-Indian venture that will release in multiple languages. The film also stars Amitabh Bachchan. Most recently, South star Vishnu Manchu’s Jeffrey Gee Chin-directed film Anu and Arjun had a pan-India release. The film also marked Suniel Shetty’s Telugu debut. Om Raut’s upcoming film Adipurush brings together South star Prabhas with Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan and Kriti Sanon. Being produced by T-Series, the film is being simultaneously shot in Telugu and Hindi. Madhu Mantena’s ambitious Ramayana 3D will most likely have Deepika Padukone star opposite Mahesh Babu. Kangana Ranaut’s AL Vijay directed Thalaivi is also being shot in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu. Ayan Mukerji’s multi-starrer epic trilogy Brahmastra too is being prepped for release in multiple languages. Karan Johar’s Vijay Deverakonda starrer Liger is a bilingual too being made simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu. Prashanth Neel’s K.G.F: Chapter 2 will also be one such Pan-India release.
Win-Win for all While filmmakers are expanding territories and increasing chances of profitability, actors are expanding their fan-base and the audience too are getting a wider choice of talent, making it a win-win situation for all.
Cross-overs and fresh new pairings
While Bollywood has time and again enjoyed the presence of some of the greatest predominantly South stars and talents – Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Nagarjuna, R Madhavan, Dhanush… these numbers are now shooting up on a faster and wider scale. And with South stars becoming a staple for audience Pan-India, Bollywood stars too are increasingly hopping on to star in South films that are aiming at Pan-India release. Besides, the audience gets to see absolutely fresh new pairings and an amalgamation of South and Bollywood talent. DeepikaPrabhas, Prabhas-Kriti, Prabhas-Pooja Hegde, Vijay Deverakonda-Ananya Panday are some of these pairs. Arvind Swami will be seen sharing screen space with Kangana Ranaut; South megastar Nagarjuna shares screen space with Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan; Ajay Devgn and Alia with Ram Charan and N.T. Rama Rao Jr too will be seen together for the first time. K.G.F: Chapter 2 will have Yash starring alongside Bollywood’s Sanjay Dutt and Raveena Tandon. These crossovers and new pairings up the interest level for audience, while widening film choices for the stars. Besides, popular South names are also being tapped for Bollywood projects. Mahesh Babu, Dulquer Salmaan, Fahadh Fazil, Nivin Pauly… are all names that audience wants to see more of in Bollywood too.
Trade happy More territories largely translate to more profits too for the production houses bankrolling these screen biggies. Besides, with an increase in the content crossover too, chances of success does increase.
Language no bar With television movie channels regularly dishing out doses of dubbed South fare in high numbers, the audience are already familiar with South stars and filmmakers. The recall value of the South names and faces have increased considerably over the years. The OTT has further diminished differences. Audience is hungry for content and language is clearly no bar when it comes to good content.
Reconsidering remakes
Filmmakers are wisening to the fact that since the remakes of their films in other languages are doing so well, it’s only sensible to release their own films in multiple languages initially itself and market them accordingly. This increases margin of both profits and popularity.
Boundaries blurring The boundaries between industries are blurring at an astonishingly high rate. From films being made to tap the South industries and Bollywood together, to the talents on both sides extending their support to each other and now working together, the industries are not demarcated any more. Not just professionally, there’s been an increase even in the talents of the two industries bonding socially, which accelerates this process. April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 51
INTERVIEW
You
Can’t make
friends
within the
film-industry..
But, yes, you can be friends with people who are in different departments of film-making, just not actors your league,” says Sooraj Pancholi who is in Dubai training for his biopic Hawa Singh based on Honorary Captain Hawa Singh. The Indian heavyweight boxer, dominated Indian and Asian amateur boxing for a decade in his weight class. He won the Asian Games gold medal in the heavyweight category in consecutive editions of the games in the 1966 Asiad and the 1970 Asiad - a feat unmatched by any Indian boxer till August 2008. He also won the National Championships in the Heavyweight category a record 11 consecutive times — from 1961 to 1972. While training for Hawa Singh, Sooraj is also promoting his next film Time to Dance opposite Isabelle Kaif that has released a few of its songs that have been much lauded. Manju Ramanan chats up with him.
Why did you choose to train in Dubai? So that I can be focused and dedicated to my role of Hawa Singh, my next film. In Mumbai, it takes an hour’s commute to reach the gym and an hour to come back. Here I can walk to the gym and be regulated about my food, diet and avail all facilities. Dubai has some of the world’s best training centres and the boxing coaches are world champions. I train for two hours twice a day and it has been intensive. Tell us about your first Dubai trip? I visited Dubai when I was a small child but at 10 years of age, my entire family had come here on a vacation. It was the only family holiday we actually had. I remember the 52 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
desert safari and the dune buggies. I also remember I saw a yacht for the very first time, even a sheesha. As a child, it is fascinating. I was dreamy-eyed! (Smiles) Were you a filmy kid growing up? Not at all. Though I came from a film background we aren’t filmy as a family. My sister is into restaurants not films. I grew up without film posters and film awards at home. We lived a normal life. You have experimented with dance forms in Time to Dance opposite debutante Isabelle Kaif? Time to Dance is a dance film that has romance in it. Since I am trained in martial arts, dancing is not tough for me. My
I love what she does. I don’t know if she is critical about my work. She liked Satellite Shankar, I don’t know if she liked Hero. I would love to work with her. I worked with my dad on Hero.
body can take the load of a dancer. It is a fun-filled film. We shot in London. Yes, Isabelle Kaif who is Katrina Kaif’s sister has been launched in the film. There is a lot of curiosity around her. She is a great dancer and much better than me when it comes to Latin dance. I met Isabelle at dance rehearsals. We didn’t know each other before that. I was signed before she was. At that time, she didn’t speak Hindi, now I am sure her Hindi is way better. You travelled the whole of India for Satellite Shankar? The film joined India. Except for Kashmir, we shot nearly everywhere. It is a very special film for me. When director Ashwin Varde contacted me, I said yes instantly. I usually never say yes in the first narration but this one was something else. Also, I got to play a soldier that I always wanted .We shot the film in 40 days at actual locations and sometimes without permissions too. We travelled in trains, tempos etc. It was an amazing experience. Himachal Pradesh opened my eyes to India. It thought of HP to be only Shimla and Manali but I didn’t know that it went all the way up to the Himalayas. Also, I wasn’t training then. I had to look like a normal boy. It was fun. Though it didn’t do well, it was popular in the OTT platforms. It is also a film that my mother (Zareena Wahab) really loves. You started out as an assistant director? Do you see yourself directing films to? No. I am happy being an actor. The idea is to do good films and you can experiment with your roles today since the audiences are more discerning. But being an assistant director surely helped me in my acting career. Acting schools or workshops never teach you what you learn on set. I always wanted to be an actor but never shared it with anyone. Sanjay Leela Bhansali lives in my building and when I was 16 years old, I went up to him and told him I wanted to be in films. A few months later, he called me to be part of Guzarish. I have learnt so much from him. That film didn’t have much of dancing unlike his earlier films. SLB sir is a taskmaster but that is how you learn. Even Kabir Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger
which I was part of as AD, was such a fantastic experience. I learnt action, drama and glamour from him. I met Salman Khan on the sets of Ek Tha Tiger and that is how I got my first film. So, you were 19 when you signed your first film? My debut film Hero happened on the set of Ek Tha Tiger. We were in Turkey and in Mardin that is a really small city. It was very cold and I was fast asleep when, at 4 am someone banged the door and said Salman sir has called me to his room. He had found out that it was my birthday, the 9th November I was 19 turning 20. He handed me a contract and signed me with his company. I signed my first film on my birthday and the film happened when I was 23. I am very grateful. What are your favourite films of your mom and dad? I love mom’s Chitchor and Gharonda and from dad’s films, I love Aatish and Saathi. So, does your conversation border around cinema? We recently started talking cinema since the lockdown. We never talk about the industry at home in my growing up years. For my mom, the conversations were usually about food and dad, about his business. But this time, during the lockdown, we sat down, discussed the film-industry and watched films. I asked my dad about his journey and how he met my mom. My mother is very simple, a completely opposite to my dad. She is an amazing cook and her Andhra food is amazing, especially her pulihaara, baingan ki bhaaji and biryani. Are you critical about each other’s work?
Do you have friends in the industry? You cannot make friends in the industry from your own group. You can make a friend for a night, for dinner and pretend you are good friends and next day you are back to competition. Most of the people you meet at parties come together for that night at a party and return to their lives the next morning. Yes, you can be friends with people your age who are in different departments of film-making. Amal Mallik for instance is a good friend. He and I started our careers together in Hero and we are the same age. He is a genius. In fact, he had messaged me recently when I was in Dubai. Directors, music composers, business people and people not from the industry are my friends. What is the content you are attracted to, be it films or webseries? I like Mirzapur, Patal Lok,and Scam 1992. I liked Pratik Gandhi’s work a lot. I watch the dubbed South Indian films and I enjoy them too. I got approached for a very good web - series but I was in committed to Hawa Singh and had to decline. Hawa Singh’s role requires me to look like a Haryanvi boy, something on the lines of Dangal. I am working on my accent with a coach. I want to do a negative character in my next film. I don’t want to play good boy anymore. On OTT too, negative roles are doing well. I love comedy. My all-time favourite film is Hera Pheri. As for films, I like Dangal and 3 Idiots. I like the work of Anushka Sharma and Deepika Padukone. Ahaan’s film just got announced and I have known him since Hero. I am very close to Sunil sir and Athiya and me are very close too. Any actor who has left an impression on you over the years? Amitabh Bachchan sir when I met him on his 70th birthday. I kept looking at him thinking if this man is even real? April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 53
EVENTS
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EVENTS
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Ready INTERVIEW
to
Rock ! It was in 2014 that Himansh Kohli burst onto the Bollywood scene with his debut Yaariyan. Thanks to its success at the Box Office and the superhit songs, the buddy-flick – that also marked Rakul Preet Singh’s Hindi film debut – brought the actor instant fame and recognition and several films followed. And while the actor admits that it’s not been a dream run since, he is now raring to go in 2021. The young star was recently in Dubai when we caught up with him for an exclusive interview. And in a candid chat with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, Himansh talked about being choosy when it came to films, preferring to maintain a dignified silence when it came to his personal life and being on a roll in 2021 as he readies to claim and cement his spot at the BO. Excerpts: 58 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Dubai seems to be one of your favourite cities… Well, it is! I love everything about the place, the food, the shopping, the vibe… In fact, I never feel like a tourist here. For me, it’s always been like a second home and I always hope to keep coming back for more. 2021 has begun on a high note for you with the recent Jubin Nautiyal song ‘Main Jis Din Bhulaa Du’ starring you doing record-breaking numbers… Yes, I’m thrilled with the kind of response the song and its music video has been garnering. It’s always good to be so warmly accepted by the audience and have them reciprocate your hard work with so much of love and adulation. It’s humbling, but also a great motivation to want to do even better and that’s what I’m set to do now. Also personally right, with your sister getting married… Yes personally too I couldn’t have been happier, as my sister Disha recently tied the knot. And like any brother, it’s been
I came into the industry with nothing in hand, and now I am way richer in experience, in love from fans, and lots more exciting films and projects to look forward to, so I look at it as a win-win situation. the most emotional occasion for me watching her step into this new phase of her life. Since your debut in Bollywood, it’s been quite a roller-coaster ride for you… Yes there’ve been highs and lows the past few years, and I wouldn’t call it a dream run for sure. But as long as the ride is on, I’m not complaining. You know, I came into the industry with nothing in hand, and now I am way richer in experience, in love from fans, and lots more exciting films and projects to look forward to, so I look at it as a win-win situation. And to be honest, I’d rather enjoy these highs and be grateful for them than fret about the lows. Even if a film didn’t do as well as expected in the past, I’m here to keep working harder and I’m just grateful that I have interesting projects to keep me going forward. You chose to maintain a dignified silence when your personal life was being much-talked about post the split with Neha (singer Neha Kakkar) There’s always more than one side to a story, and when I chose to not talk about mine, some people misconstrued my silence. All I can say is that it was all in the past, and it’s best left there. So, what’s happening on the personal front now? I’m single, in a happy space and a peaceful zone (laughs). You are on a roll with some very interesting films and projects, tell us more about those… Well my film Boondi Raita goes on floors very soon (April). There are two more films, but I’m waiting for the official announcements with the film creatives. Also, I have shot one more song, ‘Wafa Na Raas Aayi’ with T-Series that would release by April 10. You’ve been quite choosy with your roles, so what is it that makes the cut for you? As cliché as it sounds, but it has to be the script! Yes my role has to be interesting enough for me to consider it, but the story in totality needs to work for me. If it can excite me as a viewer and an audience, then I go ahead. Also for me, the co-stars matter a lot. I have been privileged enough to have worked with some amazing senior actors, and I’ve learned more from them than I would’ve learnt in any acting school. So, those lessons learnt while observing them act are priceless for me. Has there been a change in the kind of roles coming your way now as compared to post your debut? Yes, a HUGE change and a very encouraging change I must
Pic Credit: GM Saqib
admit. I am getting to explore a wider range of roles as compared to earlier where all I was being offered were characters with similar graphs, that of a chocolate-hero! But I’m happy that filmmakers are seeing a wider range and scope in me and somewhere I have also evolved, grown with experience and that brings a lot more maturity in the acting too. So, I’m thrilled with all these exciting films and projects, as they are all taking me in the direction that I want to be headed in. For someone who came with nothing in this industry and no connections, getting to live your dream – facing the camera each day - is a dream come true already! Are there any lessons you hold close? I believe that what’s meant for you will always eventually find its way to you, but the efforts will always ease that path. And I feel that just learning and growing each day is also success. So, that’s what I want to keep doing without regrets and without fear! Is OTT on your mind? My mind is on all interesting roles and projects! I never want to limit myself when it comes to performing, so be it for OTT or the big screen or the music videos that I enjoy just as much, if the role interests me, I’m in. I’m fearless as an actor and not afraid to take risks. So, yes, bring it on! April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 59
INTERVIEW
VIBE WITH TODAY Music composer Javed from the Javed-Mohsin duo, known for songs from Munna Michael, Julie 2, Jalebi and Drive, speaks to Manju Ramanan on how he feels at home in the UAE that is extremely friendly for creative people. Javed is the youngest brother of composers Sajid-Wajid. Wajid passed away recently. You grew up in a household seeped in music? Not just my family but my neighbours at Prarthna Building in Juhu too were well known classical musicians. On the ground floor lived my guru Ustad Raees Khan sahab from who I learnt the sarangi as a child. He would tell me “Yeh lohe ke chane hain,” (this is like a lentil made of steel). The sarangi has to be played with intuition than by skill because it seldom has markings on it. My maternal grand-father was Ustad Faiyaz Sahab, lived next door to us and my late father Ustad Sharafat Ali Khan comes from a lineage of classical musicians and was an exponent of the tabla. There has been no music composer who hasn’t worked with him. Right from Laxmikant Pyarelal jee, to Khayaam saab, Kalyanji- Anandji etc, all of them have worked with him closely. In fact, even popular TV serials have his tabla wadan. For instance, the title song of popular TV serial Karamchand that had Pankaj Kapur in the lead, has tabla played by him. Hundreds of films such as Umrao Jaan, Sharaabi etc. have his tabla music. Then my older brothers Sajid and Wajid became big music composers. Wajid bhai passed away recently and we 60 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
haven’t yet come to terms with his death. I miss my dad and brother. Earlier when I would travel and listen to my dad’s tabla on the radio, I would call him and tell him. Who should I call now? Social media keeps reminding us all the time and it is tough to escape memories. In short, I have learnt that if you do good work, people will remember you well. Work has to be worship. Does Dubai inspire your music? How? Yes, it does. Dubai feels like home and I am very comfortable here and most of my work comes being in that space. I have been visiting Dubai for the last 15 years now. Music is God’s gift and inspiration can come anytime. For me, it is mostly when I drive or at 3-3:30 pm midnight. You can say that as artistes, we are always waiting to get attacked by inspiration. In fact, once I was here with Mohsin and my wife kept calling and messaging me and I mentioned to him “Meri wali ding dang kar rahi hai.” Mohsin stopped me and told me that was a great line for a song and we composed it. Today the song has over a billion views on YouTube. Eros
released it. Our Pulse song was a super hit to and so was Hat jaa Saamne se teri Bhabhi khadi hai from Coolie No 1. What brings you to Dubai We are planning something big to do with music and production. I am here with my friend who is also my sponsor. We will reveal it soon. Your memories of your dad? My dad used to play a game with me when I was a child. We used to have cassette players those days and as soon as music was played, I had to identify the music composer right at the first chord. I learnt to identify each music director back then. I don’t play it now because the distinctness between music composers is not as stark as it used to be. But sometimes my friends quiz me and I win. (Laughs) Are you particular of lyrics? Lyrics are very important to any song. We are very choosy about the lyrics at the same time we also look at the situation in which the song will be picturized. When a song is coming up it is like your baby going into the world. It represents the respect of the singer, the lyricist, the composer and the mix master too. Everyone wants to do their best. But I feel that to get to know the pulse of the public is very important. You have to walk with the common man, compose what they resonate with yet leave your mark. If the lyrics don’t motivate me I don’t move ahead. We are working with Kunal Verma, Danish Sagre, Rashmi Virat and a few more who have the right connect with audiences. Do you see the decline of melody today in comparison to dancing numbers? Melody is classic and it is always preferred. It will always stay. But it is like a market-place. Some people like the
Rolls Royce, some prefer their four-wheel drives and some like a simple Fiat. Some composers are trend-setters, some are geniuses and some are talented with new ideas to explore. There is room for everyone. Most film music composers look up to and respect classical musicians but I have seen many classical musicians look down upon film music. We cannot sing like them and they cannot sing like us! I was listening to SP Balasubramnium’s Sach Mere Yaar Hai from Sagar, a song composed by RD Burman. His voice has such a good texture and he will stay immortal. I love the work of Shankar Mahadevan. Musicians don’t have borders. Sky is the limit for them. The legends you met and the stories you cherish? My maternal grandfather was Mrs SD Burman’s music teacher and my dad worked with Mr RD Burman. Once I had gone with him to the studio and my father was playing the tabla and so was another tabla player. RD then mixed the two tabla sounds together to produce a third sound. He was a genius. He was like a scientist of music. I also remember this hilarious incident with Kishore da at Mehboob Studios. During recording with all the musicians and singers, usually there was one rehearsal and then, in one take the song used to be approved. This particular one was post lunch and one musician belched loudly. Kishore da who heard it from the musician’s mike called out his name and said “Wah beta, kya pet ka gas mooh se nikala hai,” and everyone broke out laughing. He was usually dressed in a white silk dhoti kurta with white chappals. What are your future projects? We are working with Dharma productions amongst others. We have a mélange of songs that are yet to be released. They are across genres be it popular songs, dancing numbers, melodies and yes sad songs too. The young people seem to like sad songs or dard bhare geet (laughs).
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G FEATURE
angsta irls
They reek of power, influence and notoriety. Meet the 5 gangsta girls onscreen Bollywood cinema (4 of them are based on real women too) and you’ll be fired up by their nonchalance, spunk and badass attitude. Manju Ramanan
Gangubai Kathiawadi Actor- Alia Bhatt When the trailer of the film dropped recently, it created a furore across the world. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film is based on a real-life character Gangubai, the matriarch of Kamathipura – Mumbai’s red-light area. The film is based on Hussain Zaidi’s book, Mafia Queens of Mumbai. Gangubai was a resident of Kathiawad in Gujarat and her real name was Ganga Harjivandas Kathiawadi. She ran away from home with her father’s accountant to Mumbai at the age of 16. He sold her to a brothel for Rs 500. She then became the rakhi sister of gangster Karim Lala and soon became one of the most successful female dons of India. She went on to operate a flesh-trade racket in Hira Mandi, owned a brothel in Mumbai’s Kamathipura, became a politician and worked for the rights of the women of her community. 62 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
Godmother Actor – Shabana Azmi
Shabana Azmi embodies the character of Santokben Jadeja, who ran the mafia operations of Porbandar, Gujarat, in the late 1980s and early 1990s and later turned politician. The film released in 1999 and is a biographical drama directed by Vinay Shukla. The protagonist Rambhi is played by Shabana Azmi who is married to Veeram played by Milind Gunaji. When her husband dies, Rambhi turns to take part in mafia operations in Porbandar. She makes friends and some very powerful enemies. She gradually becomes ruthless and takes revenge on all her enemies. Back in her village where women had to struggle for water and there were numerous false promises from contractors about installing a pump, Rambhi makes sure she gets a tube well installed in the desert. Ultimately Rambhi gets killed at the hands of her enemies. The film won six national awards and the Filmfare award for Best Story.
Haseena Parkar
Actor- Shraddha Kapoor The 2017 Indian biographical crime film is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced by Nahid Khan. The film is based on Dawood Ibrahim’s sister Haseena Parkar. The film marks Shraddha Kapoor’s first title role. Kapoor’s brother, Siddhanth Kapoor, portrays the role of Dawood Ibrahim, and Ankur Bhatia plays the role of Haseena’s husband. The film had a scene involving Siddhant getting beaten with a prosthetic belt that made Shraddha cry as it looked very real. Director Apoorva Lakhia added that the actress wept “endlessly” on seeing someone beat her brother for the first time.
Goliyon ki Raas Leela – Ram Leela Actor- Supriya Pathak When she was approached for the character Dhankor Baa in the film, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, actress Supriya Pathak told its director Sanjay Leela Bhansali that she was already associated with a different image of ‘Hansa’ in the TV serial Khichdi, but he insisted on taking her in the 2013 film. Bhansali said there was a certain look in her eyes which can be tapped to portray characters with an evil bent of mind. “I think you suit the character Dhankor Baa the most,” he told her. The rest as they say is history. Supriya Pathak plays the gangster with great conviction and effect.
Fukrey
Actor: Richa Chaddha
Richa Chadha, in her 2013 film Fukrey, wowed the audience with her portrayal of Bholi Punjaban, a loudmouth, local don. Apparently, the character that won the hearts of many was inspired by the real-life racketeer, Sonu Punjaban also called Geeta Arora. It is also reported that The Dwarka District Court sentenced Sonu Punjaban to 24 years of jail .Sonu Punjaban, by the age of 20, was known in the entire North India and Richa worked on the role making it her own April 2021 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 63
INTERVIEW
s n g i s De on Life
Designer Mohit Falod and his wife Anjula Falod meet me in the lobby of Oaks at Ibn Batuta Gate Hotel. The previous evening, he had opened the Luxury Lifestyle awards, part of Season 8 of The Fashion Connect and mesmerized the crowd. The Jaipur based couple who have 3 workshops and over 200 people working for him specialize in ornamental work in garments have a loyal clientele in Dubai and will soon showcase in Turkey too. Excerpts from the interview
Manju Ramanan
You didn’t go to design school and are self-taught? Yes. I struggled in life to reach these heights and I am still progressing. Due to some family issues, when I was in Class 10th, I had started working in my mother’s boutique (she would buy clothes from Kolkata and sell it in Jaipur) and studied privately. When I was in Class 12th I joined her. I am self- taught and instinctive. I feel that I am gifted and that is why people know me from all over the world for my work. I had even started a marble business back then, that was doing well but something was missing. There too, I would make marble flower pots, pillars etc and make it artistic. Working with my mother made me aware of the market and I learnt about customer choices instantly. How did you meet your wife and how involved is she in your line of work? Mohit: We had an arranged marriage and she is totally involved in my business. She handles the finances and management and is very strict. We got married in 2001 and have three children, two daughters and a son.
Anjula: After we got married, he designed everything for me. I have worn the most unique garments, jewelry and accessories that he creates. He can design anything beautifully – even food. He is a designer chef and spoils us all with his weekly dishes that are just yummy. His sizzlers are to die for. During the pandemic he celebrated my birthday at home decorating the terrace and cooking my favourite food including the paan I had requested. He is amazing! When did you launch your label? After 1998, I started designing actively and in 2007 I launched my label. I do everything inhouse. I can recreate any design and have worked across all kinds of fabrics. I truly ensure that every garment I make is different and I try all kinds of work. What is your favourite form of design? I am into ornamental work in fabric . I have worked with pure gold jewellery, onyx, semi-precious gems, Swarovski ivory, ceramic, Belgium sequins spray and ‘Aari Resham’ rosette work. I cater to all the segments. I feel that everyone should wear Mohit Falod. Do you derive your creativity from Jaipur? Yes. Jaipur is my home and that is my origin. I Iove my city very much. The feeling I get there is unmatched anywhere else. I want to pull the world to Jaipur. How do you find Dubai respond to your creations? I first came to Dubai with a show that had me and Rohit Verma. Since then I have had a loyal clientele who visit me in Jaipur or buy from me. People here like bling and show and dramatic clothing. In my show, I used gota patti and semi-precious stones like onyx that people really loved. The tissue fabric on the ramp yesterday, too took a year and a half to be woven. It is a work of art and a labour of love. I will be launching my next collection in Turkey that will have a lot of blockprints and cotton lehengas.
64 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2021
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دجاج بالبابريكا والزيتون المكونات:
ملح ،زيت زيتون ،خل العنب ،كاتشاب ،فلفل أسود ،لبن زبادي ،بابريكا ،صلصة حارة ،دجاج ،زيتون أسود ،ثوم
طريقة التحضير:
خلية النحل بالتمر
في وعاء ،امزجي 6معالق من الزبادي 3 ،معالق من البابريكا 3 ،فصوص من الثوم المهروس ،ملعقتين من زيت الزيتون ،وملعقة من الصلصة الحارة .بعدها، ضعي في الوعاء نفسه دجاجة منظفة ومقطعة ستة قطع وامزجيها جيدًا وبعدها اتركيها في الثالجة لليلة كاملة أو ثالثة ساعات .بعد تجهيز الفرن ،ضعي الدجاج بصينية فرن وأضيفي ملعقة من الملح .جانباً ،اخلطي ربع كوب من زيت الزيتون ،ملعقتان كبيرتان من خل العنب ،ملعقة كبيرة من الكاتشاب والفلفل األسود واتركيه جانبًا .بعد أن ينضج الدجاج ،أضيفي المزيج إليه وضعيه مرة أخرى في الفرن لمدة عشرة دقائق .يُمكنك تقديم هذ الطبق مع األرز.
المكونات:
ماء ،خميرة ،حليب بودرة ،تمر ،دقيق ،بيكنج بودر، ملح ،زعفران ،سكر ناعم ،زيت نباتي ،بيض.
طريقة التحضير:
في وعاء الخالط ،ضعي أربعة أكواب من الدقيق، ملعقة كبيرة من البيكنج باودر ،ستة معالق من بودرة الحليب ،رشة ملح وكوبان كبيران من السكر الناعم وملعقتان كبيرتان من الخميرة .بعد مزج كل المكونات ببعضها ،أضيفي نصف كوب من الزيت النباتي ،بيضتان ،رشة من الزعفران ،كوبان من الماء ،وبعدها استمري بالمزج لمدة تتراوح بين خمسة إلى عشر دقائق .بعدها ضعي العجينة جانبًا وغلفيها ثم اتركيها حتى ترتاح ،بعدها قطعة العجينة وحشوها بالتمر منزوع النوى ،وخبزها لمدة عشر دقائق ،ولتزيين خلية النحل ،يُمكنك رش القليل من الزعفران عليها.
أبريل 2021فيلم فير الشرق األوسط 66
Fطعام
وصفات رمضانية من مطبخنا إىل مائدتك نبدأ بقول كل عام وأنتم بخير ،جعله هللا رمضانًا ُمبار ًكا وتقبل منّا ومنكم الصيام والقيام .وألننا جميعنا نتنوع باألصناف التي نطهيها ونحضرها على المائدة الرمضانية، إليكم بعض األصناف التي نقترحها لكم ،ابتدا ًء من صحن الشوربة وحتى طبق التحلية وصحتين وعافية! حنان يحيى مالزم
المكونات:
شوربة البروكلي
بروكلي ،نص عود كرفس ،نصف بصلة ،نعناع طازج ،طحين، حليب ،مرقة الدجاج ،زبدة ،فلفل أسود وخبز.
طريقة التحضير:
ابدئي بتقطيع وتحضير الخضروات ،قطعي البروكلي إلى قطع صغيرة ،افرمي عود الكرفس والنصف بصلة .في وعاء ذوبي الزبدة واسكبي معلقة كبيرة ونصف من الطحين وأنت تحركين المزيج باستمرار ،وبعدها يُمكنك إضافة كوب من الحليب مع االستمرار بتحريك المزيج حتى يغلي .في وعاء ،ذوبي زبدة وأضيفي كل الخضراوات التي قمتي بفرمها سابقًا ما عدا البروكلي ،حتى تصبح نوعًا ما طرية ،بعد ذلك أضيفي البروكلي وكوبين من مرقة الدجاج إلى الخليط لمدة عشرة دقائق ،ومزج الخليط بالخالط الكهربائي ليتماسك .بعد تجهيز المزيج قومي بإضافته إلى الخليط األول المكون من الطحين والحليب واطهيه لمدة ثالثة دقائق .يُمكن تقديم الشوربة مع النعناع والخبز.
سلطة الطماطم مع الموزاريال المكونات:
خل البلسمك ،الثوم ،زيت زيتون ،ملح ،فلفل أسود، حبق ناشف ،طماطم ،جبن موزاريال ،حبق طازق.
طريقة التحضير:
ابدئي من خالل تحضير الصلصة وهي عبارة عن مزج ربع كوب من زيت الزيتون ،ملعقة كبيرة من خل البلسميك ،قصان من الثوم المهروس ،ملعقة صغيرة من الحبق الناشف ،ملعقة صغيرة من الفلفل األسود ورشة ملح .في طبق التقديم قطعي حبتين من الطماطم المقطعة على شكل شرائح مع كرات الموزاريال وبعدها يُمكنك سكب الصلصة ،أضيفي الحبق وبعدها اتركيه جانبًا حتى يتشبع الطبق بالنكهات.
67فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
مسلسل موسى مسلسل عشرين عشرين
إخراج :محمد سالمة
إخراج :فيليب أسمر
تمثيل :محمد رمضان ،رياض الخولي ،منذر رياحنة وأسماء جالل
تمثيل :قصي خولي ،نادين نسيب نجيم ،حسين مقدم
تدور أحداث الفيلم في مصر ،بين الصعيد والقاهرة تحديدًا في نهاية الخمسينيات وبداية الستينيات .بعد وفاة األب ،تقع مسؤولية اإلخوة على عاتق األخ الكبير الذي يسافر إلى القاهرة ليعمل في مجال التصدير واالستيراد بين غزة والقاهرة ،وفي هذه الفترة ،يقع في غرام فتاة فرنسية ضمن أحداث درامية مشوقة.
ل ُمحبي الغموض والتشويق ،قد يكون هذا المسلسل الذي تبحثون عنه لرمضان هذه السنة .تدور أحداثه حول محاولة سما وهي نقيب في الجيش للبحث عن أدلة قوية من أجل إلقاء القبض على رجل عصابات خطير يرتكب العديد من الجرائم بال توقف.
مسلسل لعبة نيوتن إخراج :تامر محسن تمثيل :منى زكي ،محمد ممدوح ،عائشة بن أحمد ،محمد فراج بين الرومانسية والدراما والتشويق ،يتكون لدينا مسلسل لعبة نيوتن .فبينما تقرر الزوجة إنهاء زواجها والسفر بسبب خالفاتها المستمرة مع زوجها ،تدخل عالم آخر من المغامرات ،هل كان قرارها صائب أم باب لدوامة أخرى؟.
Fمسلسالت
في كل رمضان ،نشاهد سباق كبير بين المسلسالت العربية بمختلف أنواعها وعلى منصاتها المختلفة .يبدأ الكثير من النجوم بمشاركة جمهورهم صور من خلف الكواليس لبعض من هذه المسلسالت لتشويقهم وإعطائهم لمحة عن أجواء المسلسل .في رمضان هذه السنة ،نشهد على بعض أكبر األسماء في الوسط الفني في أعمال مختلفة .حنان يحيى مالزم تشاهد بعض المقتطفات من هذه المسلسالت وتقترح بعضها.
ماذا ستقدم لنا الشاشة في رمضان 2021؟
مسلسل النمر إخراج :شيرين عادل تمثيل :محمد إمام ،نيرمين الفقي ،هنا الزاهد تدور أحداث المسلسل في عالم الذهب والصياغة ،والصراع الذي يكون بين صناع وتجار الذهب .كما يبدو أن خالل أحداث المسلسل سيكون محمد رمضان مطارد أو شخصية النمر نفسها هي من تُالحق ليتم الكشف عمن خلف هذا اللقب.
ضد الكسر إخراج :أحمد خالد تمثيل :نيللي كريم ،تارا عماد ،منا عادل، مصطفى درويش على ما يبدو أن مسلسل ضد الكسر ذو أحداث درامية بحتة .فهذا المسلسل يتحدث عن امرأة تُعاني من زوجها بسبب تعدد عالقاته واستهتاره الدائم ،مما ينتج عنه الكثير من الخالفات والذي يؤثر على حياة بطلة المسلسل.
69فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
عائلتك لديك أي أحد من هل ِ ِ يميل إلى الفن؟ أعتقد أن عائلتي كلها فيها نوع مميز من اإلبداع .إخوتي والجيل القادم .ابنة أختي فنانة متميزة في الرسم وتركيب األشياء. تحب أن تقلد أعمالي ،وأنا حقًا معجبة بها.
نلحظ أن اإلمارات أصبحت تسلط الضوء على الفن بشكل أكبر ،ما السبب الذي دفع اإلمارات لهذه الخطوة؟ الرؤية واالستراتجية والمشي على خطوات مدروسة .فالرؤية المدروسة للقيادة الرشيدة في دولة اإلمارات ،جاء الفن كأولوية لنشر الثقافة .الفن هي النافذة التي يطل بها الشخص على العالم .يوجد دعم كبير من دولة اإلمارات للفن ،حيث ترين المتاحف موجودة بكثرة في أنحاء الدولة ،ومن أجددها متحف المستقبل.
كيف تتعاملين مع النقد؟ هذه ظاهرة صحية جميلة ،ال يوجد إنسان ناجح لم يتعرض للنقد ،ليس في الفن فقط، بل حتى في مجاالت ثانية .يكون أحيانًا النقد جميل ويفيد الفنان ،ويُمكنك أن تترك الغير نافع .وكلما كان التحدي أكبر كان النجاح أكبر.
ً أحيانا بفترة ُيصاب المبدعين ً من الجمود ،هل مررت سابقا بهذا األمر؟ نعم ،هذه حالة يمر بها أي مبدع .تأتي فترة أقف بها أمام اللوحة وال أعلم ماذا أفعل ،وهي صراع نفسي .األمر حتى يمر على الكثير من الناس ،فعلى سبيل المثال ،ربة المنزل التي تطهو الطعام -ويُعتبر الطهي نوعًا من أنواع الفن -قد يأتي عليها فترة ال تعرف ماذا تطهو ،أو قد ال ينجح معها الطعام بنفس الطريقة سابقًا.
هل تفضلين وقت ما لترسمي فيه؟ بعد صالة الفجر ،أستيقظ مبكرًا وأشعر أن هذا الوقت هادئ ويُناسبني.
هل تخططين للوحة قبل أن تبدئي الرسم؟ على اإلطالق ،وال حتى اللون .ال أضع في بالي أي لون ،إنما أتبع إحساسي وأنا في نفس الوقت أشعر أني مسيرة ولست مخيرة ،أشعر باندماجي بالعمل بشكل يأخذني إلى عالم ثاني.
إن لم تكوني فنانة؟ ماذا تتخيلين نفسك؟ في الفن فقط.
أبريل 2021فيلم فير الشرق األوسط 70
Fمقابلة
الفن ،نافذة اإلنسان للعالم ديكور الصالة المزين بأعمالها يُشعرك بحنين الماضي وجمال الفن ،استقبلتني بكل ود وأدخلتني إلى االستوديو الخاص بها ،شعرت وكأنني دخلت إلى عالم ُمختلف من األلوان .في مقابلة من القلب إلى القلب ،حنان يحيى مالزم تتحدث مع الفنانة اإلماراتية نجاة مكي عن كل ما يتعلق بالفن ،اإلبداع والجمال. حنان يحيى مالزم
اخترت القاهرة على بمشوارك الفني؟ لماذا بدأت متى ِ ِ ِ وجه التحديد من بين الدول البداية كانت منذ الصغر ،منذ الطفولة وأنا العربية الثانية؟ أرسم وكان رسمي يُشبه «الشخبطة» إال أن هذه الموهبة نمت معي ومع وجودي في المدرسة وتشجيع معلمتي لي وحصولي على تعليم أكاديمي في هذ المجال. بالطبع دعم أهلي شكل لي فارق كبير واستلهمت كثيرًا من دبي القديمة كما شكل خور دبي بانوراما جميلة في أعمالي الفنية. التحقت بكلية الفنون في القاهرة وانهيت دراستي. شاركت في الكثير من النوادي الفنية منها نادي طلبة اإلمارات في القاهرة ،وعندما رجعت كانت قد بدأت جمعية اإلمارات للفنون التشكيلية وكنت من األعضاء المؤسسين لهذه الجمعية. مثلت دولة اإلمارات العربية المتحدة في الكثير من المعارض على مستوى دول الخليج وعلى مستوى العالم.
قرارك ًإذا من البداية كان ِ اتخاذ الفن والرسم كمسيرة فنية ومهنية؟
كنت بين ثالثة خيارات ،القاهرة أو بغداد أو الدول األجنبية .إال أنني شعرت أني سأكون بعيدة جدًا عن طبيعة مجتمعنا العربي ،مما دفعني الختيار القاهرة، المدينة التي تشبه المجتمع العربي الذي نشأت فيه .أردت أن أدرس في أمريكا، أال أن بعد المسافات جعلني أتردد .القاهرة بلد عريق وكلية الفنون لها مكانة كبيرة عل مستوى الوطن العربي والعالمي.
الكثير من الناس تلجأ إلى غرست فيني معلمة الفنون الجميلة الفن لتعبر عن مشاعرها عنك؟ التوجه لدراسة هذا المجال ،كانت لدي وحالتها النفسية ،ماذا ِ الموهبة وقمت بصقلها من خالل تواجدي في كلية أكاديمية.
71فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
الفن حالة تعيش مع اإلنسان ،سواء كان
فرح أو حزن .أصبح الفن إيقاع يومي بالنسبة لي ،ال يتعلق بمناسبة أو ظرف، فسواء كنت أشعر بضيق أو أمر ببعض الظروف ،فالبد لي أن أمارسه ،فالفن بالنسبة لي كالهواء والماء ،ال أستطيع من دونه .ولكن في مناسبات مثل اليوم الوطني ،يوم المرأة العالمي وغيرها من القضايا التي تعني العالم والمجتمع ،هذه جميعها تُفرض على الفنان ،فهو يتأثر بها والبد أن يواكب سير األحداث ويعبر عنها. الفنان ُخلق لرسالة حب وإنسانية.
لديك نوع هل ِ ُمعين من الرسوم التي تركزين عليها؟ أصبح للفنان حرية بالتعبير ،فأنا ال أتقيد بنوع أو نمط ُمعين للفن ،حيث أصبحت أفاقه واسعة وفضائه شاسع .كل يوم نأتي بتقنية جديدة تخدم الفن ،تخدم الطبيب، المحامي وباقي المجاالت .ولذلك ،ال بد أن يطور الفنان من نفسه وأسلوبه بما يخدم الزمن الحالي.
لديك مصدر إلهام معين؟ هل ِ البيئة من حولي والفضاء المتسع .أبث رسالة من خالل لوحة معينة أو لون ما، أشعر بالسعادة عندما أسمع أن لوحتي قد نالت االستحسان.
دخل إلى وجدان اإلنسان العربي ،فهو يسلط الضوء على قضية ُولدنا ونحن نتابعها.
ما هو أكثر عمل شكل تحدي بالنسبة لك؟ بالنسبة للممثل ،أي دور يكون تحدي بحد ذاته .فما أن يُعرض عليه الدور، حتى يبدأ بالتساؤل والتخطيط لكيفية تقديم الدور بأفضل طريقة ممكنة ،ومن هنا ينبع التحدي .أعمالنا ال تشبه على سبيل المثال الفيلم العالمي «الجوكر» فدور الشخصية يُقدم للممثل قبل بسنة من تاريخ بدأ التصوير ،وقد يطلب المخرج من الممثل أن يزيد أو يُنقص وزنه ،كما يحتاج الممثل فترة من الوقت ليُدرس الشخصية ويتعمق فيها .أعمالنا السينمائية والتلفزيونية ال تتضمن هذا النوع من التحديات ،إال أنني أرغب بخوض تحدي كهذا يو ًما ما .في مسلسل «على حافة الهاوية» كنت أقوم بدور شخص ُمصاب بمرض نفسي ،رغم أن مشاهدي لم تكن بالكثيرة ،إال أنني استغرقت الكثير من الوقت تحضيرًا لنفسي ،من طريقة الكالم والحركة وحتى نظرة العيون .هذا واحد من األدوار التي ترك أثرًا كبيرًا عند الناس.
أخبرنا عن أكثر األدوار التي قمت بها وأحببتها؟ ع ّدة أدوار في حقيقة ،من مسلسل «شجرة النارنج» إلى «الفوارس» وصوالً إلى
المقدم فايز من مسلسل “الوالدة من الخاصرة” .عندما قرأت النص أحببته كثيرًا ،حتى أنني بدأت التصوير دون أن أوقع العقد .كنت أركز على تقديم هذه الشخصية بطريقة إيجابية رغم أنها جزء من مؤسسة تعمها الفساد ،اعتمدت على تبني الشخصية وصدقيني ،كل المشاهد التي قدمتها كانت من قلبي.
قمت بإخراج ثالثة أعمال تلفزيونية طويلة ،أيها أحببت أكثر ،أن تكون أمام الكاميرا أم خلفها؟ أرى التمثيل واإلخراج وجهان لعملة واحدة ،ولكن كمخرج ،تكون صاحب العمل وصاحب الرسالة .في التمثيل، تكون أشبه بناقل لهذه الرسالة .لكل منهما متعة خاصة ،إال أنني أميل لإلخراج أكثر ،فأنا أقوم بتقديم عمل بكل تفاصيله ومشاكله .التمثيل يمنحك الحضور الدائم، واإلخراج قد يجعلك تغيب عن الساحة ً قليل .وأنا ال أمزج بين العملين ،فعلى سبيل المثال ،إن كنت مشارك في عمل كممثل ،ال أتدخل بعمل المخرج وال بأي شكل من األشكال.
أخبرنا عن فيلم خورفكان سُعدت جدًا الختيارهم لي للمشاركة في هذا الفيلم االماراتي العالمي بدور قائد برتغالي ،أُتيحت لي الفرصة أن أتعرف على تاريخ دولة اخترت أن أعيش فيها. فريق العمل الذي نفذ العمل هو فريق
بريطاني ،ستشعرين أن هناك لمسة عالمية أضيفت للعمل ،وكل من شاهد العمل سيوافقني الرأي .التمثيل والديكور واألزياء كان مدروسا ً بشكل جيد وظهر بمستوى رائع ،والخدع البصرية كانت على مستوى عالي أيضًا.
هل ُتفضل أن يكون للعمل إيرادات عالية أم حصوله على جوائز؟ ولم ليس االثنان؟ توجد الكثير من األفالم التي كانت ذو إنتاج قوي وحصلت على جوائز كبيرة وأفالم ذات ميزانية منخفضة إال أنها تسلط الضوء على قضايا قوية .أنا مع اإلنتاج القويُ ،مشاهد اليوم هو ُمشاهد ذكي ،ولن تستطيع إقناعه بالقليل .كما أن اإلنتاج القوي وحده ال يكفي بل المحتوى القوي أيضًا ضروري.
ما هي نصيحتك ألي شخص ُمقبل لعالم التمثيل واإلخراج؟ أحبوا عملكم ،هذا العمل ليس مصدر دخل فقط ،فما إن أصبحت تُفكر في هذه الطريقة ،فإن الحس اإلبداعي سيموت. عليك أن تحب الشخصيات التي تقوم بها وأن تتنوع بأعمالك ،أما اإلخراج، فأنا أنصحهم بالثقافة ،ودائ ًما أن يواكبوا التطور وما يحدث في العالم.
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Fمقابلة
“تغيرت الدراما السوريا بشكل كبير بعد الحرب” يقول المخرج والممثل ماهر صليبي .لطالما شاهدته على التلفاز، أذكر عائلتي تنتظر وقت عرض مسلسالته مثل الوالدة من الخاصرة والعراب لمشاهدته ،كنت أتحدث عن أعماله التي شاهدتها مع زمالئي وتدور األيام وها أنا أجلس معه على نفس الطاولة في مارينا ،دبي. مع الممثل السوري القدير ماهر صليبي أسأله عن أعماله ،حبه للتمثيل واإلخراج وغيرها من المواضيع .في الحقيقة بعد لقائي معه ،شعرت أني قابلت وطني سوريا شخصيًا ،وما أجمل أن تقابل من يشبه وطنك ولو بعد طول غياب .مقتطفات من المقابلة... حنان يحيى مالزم
هل ترى أن الدراما السورية تغيرت؟ وكيف ترى هذا التغيير بشكل عام؟ في الحقيقة ،الدراما السورية موضوع نستطيع التحدث عنه بشكل واسع، خصوصًا بعد مرور عشر سنوات من الحرب .قبل الحرب ،كان للدراما السورية رونق وحضور خاص ،وليس على مستوى سوريا فقط ،بل على مستوى الوطن العربي بشكل عام .بل وحتى على مستوى العالم ،وأقصد بهذا الجاليات العربية المنتشرة في العالم التي تُتابع مسلسالتنا .ولكن كما يبدو ،فإن تأثير الحرب كان واضحًا بالفعل على الدراما السورية ،حتى أن المحطات التلفزيونية بشكل عام ،لم تعد تستقبل وتعرض أعمال ً عمل يتضمن سورية بحتة ،بل يرغبون لمسة سورية ،كوجود ممثل سوري أو مخرج سوري أو كاتب سوري على سبيل المثال .وهنا يتجسد قول «مصائبُ قوم عند قوم فوائد» عندما بدأوا باختيار أسماء سورية في أعمال درامية أخرى، بشكل أو بآخر دعم العمل، ساعد هذا ٍ حتى العمل يُحقق متابعة ونجاحات أكبر. ولكن ،ما أرغب بقوله في النهاية أن المسلسل السوري ظُلم ،ذلك المسلسل الذي كان يسلط الضوء على القضايا اإلنسانية واالجتماعية ،و ِعوضًا أن يكون هو األساس أصبح في المرتبة الثالثة أو الرابعة وهذا ما أنتج أعمال سورية متواضعة. 73فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
شاركت في الكثير من األفالم والمسلسالت ،أي موقع تصوير ُتفضل؟
أن الممثل يستطيع أن يأخذ وقته في التمثيل ،وبالتالي يستطيع أن يُقدم كل ما لديه من أجل الدور ،الوقت لصالح الممثل ،أما بالتلفزيون فعجلة التصوير سريعة ،قد يصل عدد المشاهد التي يُمثلها الممثل في اليوم الواحد إلى عشرة مشاهد أو أكثر ،ونتيجة هذه السرعة ،قد يسهى الممثل عن بعض التفاصيل وال يسعفه الوقت لتحقيقها .لالثنان متعة كبيرة، ولكن للسبب الذي ذكرته اآلن فإن متعة السينما أكبر.
ًإذا فأنت تميل باألكثر إلى السينما؟
مواقع التصوير كلها جميلة ولها جوها
نعم أميل لها إال أنني أحب األعمال التلفزيونية كثيرًا .فشاركت في عدة أعمال وأخرجت بعضها.
الممتع ،السينما لها نكهة خاصة ،هل يوجد أي عمل رغبت والتلفزيون له نكهته ،ولكن إذا أردنا أن بالتمثيل فيه ولكن لم تسنح نتحدث عن ذاكرة السينما والتلفزيون ،الفرصة؟
ذاكرة التلفزيون قصيرة ليس لها بعد أرشيفي كبير كالسينما .عندما تخرجنا من المعهد ،سعينا لنحصل على دور في فيلم ،ألنه يبقى في األرشيف ويتنقل من مهرجان إلى آخر .ولكن ،مع التطور ٍ الذي نشهده على المحطات التلفزيونية والمنصات ،أصبح للمسلسل مكانة كبيرة في األرشيف .كما أصبحت الشركات المنتجة مهتمة بالعمل على المسلسالت التلفزيونية طالما أن محتوى المسلسل نفسه قوي .ما يميز التصوير للفيلم ،هو
يوجد أكثر من عمل في الحقيقة ،بعضها ُعرض علي ولكنني رفضت المشاركة فيها ،إال أنني ندمت الحقًا .مثل مسلسل “التغريبة الفلسطينية” للمخرج الراحل حاتم علي ،في ذلك الوقت كنت مشارك في مسلسل “عائد إلى حيفا” وهو أيضًا عمل فلسطيني ،شعرت أن العملين يتحدثان عن فلسطين ،ودوري في “عائد إلى حيفا” كان أكبر .وعندما شاهدت “التغريبة الفلسطينية” شعرت بأنه كان يجب علي المشاركة بهذا العمل الذي
Summers Essentials
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Fالموضة والجمال
!Think Floral 77فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
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Fالموضة والجمال
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حب الجمهور ،أفالم قادمة ناجحة وحساب بنكي قوي. ت صحفية ،من ستقابلين لقصة إن كن ِ الغالف وما أول سؤال ستطرحينه؟ سأرغب بإجراء مقابلة مع السيد سنجاي ليال بهانسالي ،وسأسأله متى يرغب بمشاركة كيارا أدفاني أعماله؟ أخبرتك أنه يوجد الكثير من األهداف، والكثير من األمنيات على قائمتي، اآلن يجب علي أن أحققها. كيف كانت فترة الحظر؟ لطالما كنت شخص بسيط ،كان الحظر يؤثر علي كما هو يؤثر على الجميع. أثر على بعض الناس بشكل سيء، أبي وأخي كانا يشعران بالكآبة ولكن حافظت والدتنا على طاقتنا .لديها مدرسة واضطرت إلى إغالقها ،ولكن مع ذلك كانت سعيدة .كانت تقول «سعادتنا بين يدينا ونحن من نتحكم بها» .وأعتقد أنها الطريقة األجمل للنظر إلى األمر بشكل كامل ،علمتني أن أرى الجانب المشرق من كل أمر ونجوت وأنا أتبع نصيحتها. سيدهارث مالهوترا ،كارتيك آريان، فارون دهاوان ،أكشاي كومار ،صفي كل الممثلين الذين شاركوا أعمالكِ على طريقتكِ الخاصة؟ السيد أكشاي ال يعرف معنى التوقف، وهذا بحد ذاته أمر ملهم نظرً ا إلى الخبرة التي لديه ،عمره ،نجوميته، وهذا أفضل مثال .طاقته اإليجابية تتمحور حول االستمرار ،المضي قدمًا والعمل ،هذا أكثر ما أحبه فيه. كيف تتخيلين حب حياتكِ ؟ هل شخص مهووس مثل فيلم Kabir Singh أم مرح وال يقلق كثيرً ا مثل GOOD NEWWZ؟ ليس لدي أي تخيل مُعين ،بالنسبة لي يجب أن يكون شخص يتقبلني ،يحبني ويحترمني كما أنا ،شخص أستطيع أن أكون صديقته. لمن تنسبين فضل نجاحكِ ؟ إلى الله ،أنا شخص روحاني ج ًدا، هو الذي يرعاني ويساعدني ألمر من كل محنة.
Dress: Giuseppe Di Morabito
إنه لشيء عظيم بأن تتاح الفرصة للممثالت بأن يأخذن دور البطولة في األفالم ،فيلم Guilty كان الفيلم األول الذي أتولى به مسؤوليته ،ولذلك كان بالنسبة لي فيلم مميز
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هل تظنين أن هذا الوسط الفني صعب كقطع األعنق وأنه عليكِ دائمًا أن تكوني جاهزة؟ بكل تأكيد ،أن تكون وسط مجموعة من النجوم الذي يقدمون دائمًا أعمال جديدة ومثيرة لالهتمام ،مما يدفعك أن ً جاهزا دائمًا وأال تتساهل ولو تكون للحظة .نوع المحتوى الذي نشاهده على المنصات الرقمية خالل السنة الماضية، شعرت من خالله أن الجميع أصبح أكثر انفتاحً ا ألفكار جديدة .الوسط اإلبداعي شهد على تحول 360درجة ،الجميع يرغب بتجربة شيء جديد. هل تظنين أن فيلم INDOO KI JAWAANIكان يستحق أن يُخطط لعرضه بطريقة أفضل؟ بالطبع ،حزنت لعرضه وسط الجائحة، ولكن كان هذا قرار على المنتجين اتخاذه من أجل دعم السينما .السنة الماضية كانت صعبة ج ًدا ،الكثير من األفالم التي كان من المقرر أن ُتعرض في صاالت السينما ،انتهى بها األمر ُتعرض على المنصات الرقمية .أعتقد أنه وللمرة األولى ،كل ممثل يرغب بأن ينجح كل فيلم ،لنستطيع العودة إلى صاالت السينما .ألنه بالنسبة لنا جميعنا، 81فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
أنا ممتنة للمخرجين الذين نظموا ورش العمل .يريدون ً جاهزا للدور ،يريدون منك أن تنسى الطرق منك أن تكون التقليدية واكتشاف كيف ُيمكنك أن ُتمثل أدوار بطرق كنت ُتقدم مشهد بكاء ،ستقدمه مختلفة .حتى وإن ِ بطريقة مختلفة في كل فيلم ُتشارك فيه
المخرجون ،الممثلون ،التقنيين ،كل شخص في اإلعالم ،هذا هو مصدر رزقنا ،وهذا ما نحن موجودون ألجله، لحبنا لألفالم .رغم كل شيء ،أنا سعيدة ألن INDOO KI JAWAANI عُرض في السينما ،وعندما عدت إلى صالة السينما ألول مرة ،كان من أجل ً مذهل. مشاهدة فيلمي ،كان األمر كيف كان الوضع في موقع تصوير ،Jug Jugg Jeeyoعندما أصيبوا كل الممثلين بفايروس كورونا ،كيف ت مع الوضع؟ تعامل ِ كان الجميع منفعل بسبب ما يجري، كان األمر بال شك مخيف والحقيقة أننا جميعنا كنا قلقين من الوضع.
كنا نعمل معًا ،فتراودك الفكرة أنك أيضًا قد أصبت به .الحمداللَّه أن الثالثة -فارون دهاوان ،نيتو كابور والمخرج راج ميهتا – كانت أعراضهم خفيفة وتخلصوا من المرض وأصبحوا أقوى من ذي قبلُ .ترفع القبعات لنيتو، كان قرارها بأن نعود إلى موقع التصوير ،اقتنع المخرج ومن بعدها عاد الجميع إلى موقع التصوير. أتخذنا إجراءات احترازية أكبر واستطعنا التصوير بدون أي حوادث إضافية .أظن أننا أصبحنا أقوى بعدما حدث. أخبرينا عن ثالث مميزات لنجاح فيلم في مسيرتكِ الفنية؟
Crop top: Topshop Jacket: Paule Ka Earring: Studio Metallurgy
عندما لم يحقق فيلمكِ األول النجاح المتوقع ،ما الذي دفعكِ إلكمال رحلتك؟ كانت هذه الفترة األصعب ،لم أكن أعرف األفضل ،ولم أعرف ماذا أفعل بعدها؟ لم أكن أدرك أن األمر ال يتمحور حول فيلمك األول فقط، كل فيلم هو تحدي بحد ذاته .ومن يوم جمعة إلى يوم جمعة يوجد تحدي. إيماني بنفسي هو ما دفعني لالستمرار خالل ذلك الوقت ،تعلقت بذلك وثبت قدمي على األرض .لم يكن لدي خطة بديلة على اإلطالق.
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لم يكن لديكِ خطة بديلة؟ ال ،أتذكر أن األمر الوحيد الذي أردت أن أقوم به هو التمثيل .كنت أتدرب منذ أن كنت في الرابعة من عمري، لذا حياتي كانت تدور حول التمثيل. ت من تلكِ الفترة؟ ماذا تعلم ِ تجهزت كل يوم ،لكي عندما تأتي الفرصة ،تجدني جاهزة من أجلها. ال أريد أن أشعر بأنني قصرت في عملي ،أنا ممتنة للمخرجين الذين نظموا ورش العمل .يريدون منك أن ً جاهزا للدور ،يريدون منك أن تكون تنسى الطرق التقليدية واكتشاف كيف يُمكنك أن ُتمثل أدوار جديدة بطرق مختلفة .حتى وإن كنت ُتقدم مشهد بكاء ،ستقدمه بطريقة مختلفة في كل فيلم ُتشارك فيه ،هذه مهمة شاقة للممثل .عندما أشاهد الجزء األخير من فيلم ،Kabir Singhتدمع عيناي في كل مرة ،ألنني لم أشعر أب ًدا أنني أنا من كانت تقوم بالمشهد. كيف تتعاملين مع متنمرين مواقع التواصل االجتماعي؟ ال أعيرهم اهتمامي ،يؤسفني أنهم بشكل فظيع لدرجة جرحوا في حياتهم ٍ أنهم يريدون نشر الكراهية في كل مكان .التفاعل معهم والرد عليهم ليس باألمر الذي أرغب بالقيام به. أتجاهلهم ،كما أنني أراهم في بعض األحيان مضحكين.
ً شيئا ما ،كل شخص مثلت معه ،كل مخرج عملت كل فيلم علمني ً معه علمني ً جديدا .بالنسبة لي كل فيلم هو فيلم مميز ،سواء حقق أمرا ً نجاحا في البوكس أوفس أم يحقق
أبريل 2021فيلم فير الشرق األوسط 82
ُتعتبرين ممثلة من الصف األول في الوسط الفني لبوليوود ،كيف تشعرين حيال األمر؟ يبدو األمر كحلم يتحقق ،لطالما رغبت بالقيام ما أقوم به اليوم ،ولذلك عندما يؤمنون صانعو ومُخرجو هذه اإلعمال الفنية بك ...شعور ال يُكمن وصفه .نوع النصوص التي اقرئها اليوم ،لم تكن موجودة أمس ،أشعر بالرغبة للمشاركة في كل األعمال. ت المفضلة لدهارما ،كونكِ شاركتي أن ِ في Guilty، Good Newwzو Jug Jugg Jeeyoمعهم ،كيف هي عالقتك مع كاران جوهار؟ كاران دائمًا يمزح ً قائل «لماذا أُعطيت كل هذه األفالم لكِ » وأنا دائمًا أرد قائلة «البد أنني محترفة في عملي حتى أُعطيت هذه األعمال لي»( .تضحك) في بعض األحيان أفكر أنه يجب أن يكون لي مكتبي الخاص في شركة دهارما ،أحب العمل معهم ،قدموا لي بعض من أقوى األدوار التي مثلتها. عندما بدأ مشروع ،Lust Stories كان هو األول الذي قدم لي الكثير من التقدير .أعتقد أن كاران يراني كممثلة قوية .كل األعمال التي قدمها لي سواء كانتGood Newwz، JJJ أو .Shershahكل شخصية كانت مذهلة على حد سواء لدرجة شعرت أنني أميل لها شخصيًا .أرغب بأن يقوم بإخراج فيلم لي مجد ًدا.
Dress: Giuseppe Di Morabito
دائما يمزح ً ً قائل «لماذا ُأعطيت كل كاران ً لك» وأنا دائما أرد قائلة «البد أنني هذه األفالم ِ ُ محترفة في عملي حتى أعطيت هذه األعمال لي» .في بعض األحيان أفكر أنه يجب أن يكون لي مكتبي الخاص في شركة دهارما
83فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
تعملين اليوم مع أكبر نجوم السينما وعلى أكبر لوحات اإلعالن ،ما كانت نقطة التحول في مسيرتك الفنية؟ الجميع سيتحدث عن أعمالي الناجحة، سواء كانت Lust Storiesأو Kabir .Singhفي العادة ،هذه األفالم تصل لعدد أكبر من الناس ،ولكن بالنسبة لي فإن قاعدة أساسي هي فيلمي األول .Fuglyأنا ممتنة لفيلمي األول من أجل كل األفالم التي شاركت فيها، سواء فيلم حقق نجاحات عالية أم ال، فلقد علمني الكثير ويُمثل جزءًا مهمًا من مسيرتي.
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كيارا أدفانى ببطء وبثبات ،وصلت إلى الصفوف األولى من الوسط الفني ،دخولها إلى عالم بوليوود مع فيلم Fuglyعام ،2014إال أنه استغرق من الوقت األربع سنوات ليُالحظ الناس وجودها .من مسلسل Lust Storiesبدأ الضوء يتسلط عليها بشكل أكبر ،وبعد نجاح فيلم Kabir Singhعام 2019وفيلم Good Newwz بنفس العام ،وجدت كيارا نفسها ُتعرض على أكبر لوحات اإلعالن ،ليست جميلة وذات جاذبية أمام الكاميرا فحسب ،بل أيضًا ذات موهبة تمثيلية كبيرة .حيوية ومليئة بالطاقة اإليجابية .تتطلع لعام 2021حيث لديها فيلم Jug Jugg Jeeyo، Bhool Bhulaiyaaو . Shershaahعلى الصعيد الشخصي ،فهي اآلن مع سيدهارث مالهوترا ،إال أنها اختارت أن تكون كتومة عن الموضوع والتصريح الوحيد الذي تدلي به عندما ُتسأل عن الموضوع هو «نحن فقط أصدقاء» .حسب األخبار ،فإن الثنائي قابلوا أهالي بعضهما وذهبا في عطلة إلى المالديف معًا .مع وضع الحياة الشخصية جانبًا ،هذه الفنانة ال ُتمانع أب ًدا أن تكون صريحة عندما يكون الموضوع مسيرتها الفنية والحياة .مقابلة بال تقيد مع الممثلة التي تنثر المرح أينما حلّت. PHOTOGRAPHER: TARAS TARAPORVALA | STYLING: LAKSHMI LEHR | MAKE UP: LEKHA GUPTA | HAIR: NISHI SINGH
فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 84 2021
عسى أن ُتصبح األحالم حقيقة... حلم يتحقق ،لطالما رغبت بالقيام ما أقوم به اليوم ،ولذلك عندما يؤمنون صانعو ومُخرجو هذه اإلعمال الفنية بك... شعور ال يُكمن وصفه .نوع النصوص التي اقرئها اليوم ،لم تكن موجودة أمس ،أشعر بالرغبة للمشاركة في كل األعمال .كيارا أدفاني تسعى لألفضل، تتحدث عن أحالمها والمزيد...
ط م و ح ي ع ا ن ق ا ل س راجهوفين د را س ين غ يت ح د ث مع كيارا أ دف ان ي ا لت ي ب دأ ت نجوميتها ت ص ل ع نا ن ال س ماء.
م اء
أصالة تتوقف عن تعاطي العقاقير الطبية الخاصة باالكتئاب أغلنت الفنانة السورية أصالة نصري في لقاء إذاعي هو األول واألخير من نوعه أنها توقفت عن تعاطي العقاقير الخاصة باالكتئاب وإثر هذا التوقف أُصيبت بصداع شديد .كما صرحت أصالة نصري في هذا اللقاء أنها تندم على غنائها (كبرتك على سيدك) ألنها ال تعكس شخصيتها ،بل أغنية (خانة الذكريات) هي التي تُمثلها .بينما الكثير من المغنيين يستنكرون األغاني الشعبية ،إال أن أصالة تراها مفرحة للقلب طالما ال تضمن أي مضمون خادش للحياء .وفي مفاجأة فريدة من نوعها تعمل أصالة على طرح كتاب مذكراتها حالما تنتهي منه باإلضافة إلى قرار دخولها إلى عالم التمثيل والتركيز على رغبتها للتمثيل باللهجة السورية.
نصيحة الخبيرة
د .سنا ساجان
مديرة مركز أمريكان استيتيك الطبي شد الوجه بتقنية PDO ما هي تقنية شد الوجه بخيوط PDO؟ شد الوجه بالخيوط هو شكل جديد نسب ًيا من شد الوجه غير الجراحي .إذا كانت بشرة وجهك مترهلة وتريد مظه ًرا أكثر نضارة وشبا ًبا ،فقد يكون هذا العالج مناس ًبا .بدون أي جروح أو شقوق، مجرد حقن. كم تدوم؟ PDOأو المعروفة بخيوط البولي ديوكسانو تذوب بعد ستة إلى تسعة أشهر .ال توجد تقنية شد غير جراحية يمكن أن تؤدي إلى نتائج دائمة .عادة ما تؤدي جراحة شد الوجه إلى نتائج تدوم لفترة أطول من عملية شد الوجه بالخيوط .يمكن أن تستمر نتائج جراحة شد الوجه لمدة تصل إلى عقد من الزمان ،بينما تستمر عملية شد الوجه بالخيوط عمو ًما من سنة إلى ثالث سنوات. كيف تعمل هذه التقنية؟ خيوط البولي ديوكسانون ( )PDOهي خيوط طبية خاصة تكون أرق من الشعر ومصنوعة من البروتين .أكدت األبحاث أن PDOيريح األوتار والعضالت ،في حين أن تفاعل الجسم الغريب يحسن تدفق الدم إلى المنطقة التي تحفز تكوين الكوالجين الجديد (إنتاج الكوالجين الجديد في الجلد) .كما أنه يحفز اإليالستين وحمض الهيالورونيك، وكال المادتين أساسيتان للحفاظ على بشرة نضرة وصحية.
محمد هنيدي يعود إلى الموسم الرمضاني مع مسلسل إذاعي بعد فترة طويلة ،يعود الفنان المصري المشهور بمسلسالته وأفالمه الكوميدية إلى موسم الرمضان والذي يُعتبر من أكثر المواسم ُمتابعة على مدار السنة مع مسلسل إذاعي بعنوان (حزام ناشف) وتشاركه بالبطولة منى عبدالغني .كما روج هنيدي لفيلمه القادم في موسم عيد الفطر “األنس والنمس” وتشاركه في البطولة منة شلبي.
ماذا ُتجهز نادين نسيب نجيم؟ يبدو أن نادين ليست من الفنانات اللواتي يعرفن معنى التوقف ،فهي من مشروع إلى آخر ومن نجاح إلى أكبر .في أحدث منشوراتها على االنستقرام ،نشرت نادين صو ًرا لها من دبي مشيرة إلى أنها مشروعا جديدًا بدون أن تُجهز ً تدلي أي تفاصيل عن المشروع نفسه .تشارك نادين في موسم رمضان مع مسلسل (عشرين عشرين) ويُشاركها في البطولة الفنان السوري قصي خولي.
هل هو آمن؟ تتمتع خيوط PDOبسجل حافل بالسالمة ألكثر من عقد من الزمان في الجراحة وإغالق الجراح .حصلت خيوط PDOعلى موافقة إدارة األغذية والعقاقير ( )FDAينتج عن العالج تحسن فوري في مظهر البشرة من حيث الملمس العام والجلد المشدود ،حيث يتم تقليل الخطوط الدقيقة والتجاعيد. ما هي المناطق التي يمكن معالجتها؟ هذا عالج متعدد االستخدامات يمكن استخدامه في أي جزء من الوجه والرقبة لعالج ترهل الحواجب ،والخطوط األنفية ،وتجاعيد الجبهة الرأسية واألفقية ،وتدلي الخدين ،وخطوط الماريونيت ،وترهل خط الفك ،باإلضافة إلى التجاعيد والثنيات على الذقن والرقبة. مناسبا إذا: قد ال يكون العالج ً كان لديك حب شباب نشط /جلد مشقوق أو معرض لإلصابة بقرح البرد .تناولت أدوية مانعة للتخثر مثل األسبرين /الوارفارين / الهيبارين أو تناولت الكحول خالل 48ساعة من العالج( .ننصحك باالستمرار في تناول األدوية الموصوفة لك ولكن التوقف عن تناول بعض المكمالت الغذائية مثل زيت زهرة الربيع المسائية وفيتامين Dو Aو Eوزيوت السمك وزيت بذور الكتان والمغنيسيوم والثوم والجنكو قبل العالج) احصل على استشارتنا اآلن! اتصل على 80085555
Fأهم األحداث
أهم األحداث
يبدو من األعلى أن هناك الكثير من األحداث في وسط المدينة
عامر خان يتبع اتفاقية عدم استخدام الهاتف
ُعرض على الممثل ماهيش بابو دور (رام) أمام ديبيكا بادكون
فيلم مادهو مانتينا Ramayana 3Dيصنع ضجة منذ فترة من الوقت ،وف ًقا للشائعات ،حصل المشروع على ميزانية تصل حتى 300 كرور ومن الممكن مشاركة ريثيك روشان وديبيكا بادكون بدور رئيسي. وحسب األخبار ،فإن ريثيك روشان لن يقوم بدور رام بل بدور آخر، ويبدو أن مادهو مانتينا عثر على من سيمثل دور رام من أجل .حسب إحدى الصحف الرائدة ،يُقال أن المنتج يفكر بأن يطلب من ماهيش بابو تمثيل دور رام ،يبحث الفريق عن ممثل يستطيع إضافة عنصر البراءة على الشخصية .في البداية عرض على الدور على برابهاس ولكنه يمثل في فيلم Adipurushمن إخراج أوم راوت .كما وردنا صعق عندما سمع عن إعالن فيلم Adipurush أن مادهو مانتينا ُ سارع من أجل البدأ بمشروع ، Ramayana 3Dمن الناحية األخرى ،أعجب ماهيش بابو النص ولكن لم يتم االتفاق على أي شيء بعد .متشوقون جميعنا لهذه التجربة السينمائية.
التوقع من عامر خان أن يقوم بالغير متوقع هو الطبيعي الجديد ،وف ًقا للتقارير ،قرر الممثل أن يُبقي هاتفه مغل ًقا حتى وقت عرض فيلمه القادم ، Laal Singh Chaddhaالسبب وراء إبقاء هاتفه مغل ًقا هو أنه ال يرغب بأي مصدر تشتيت خالل عمله على فيلم Laal Singh . Chadhaعامر الذي يعمل قل ًبا وقال ًبا على فيلمه القادم ،يريد أن يحرص بأن ال شيء سيشتت تركيزه على الفيلم مثل مكالمات غير ضرورية .حسب التقارير فإن الممثل سيبقى بعيدًا عن هاتفه حتى موعد إخراج الفيلم .كل شخص يعرف األفضل له. في هذه األثناء... يبدو أن عامر خان سيشارك في فيلم رياضة قري ًبا ،حسبما سمعنا أن الممثل بالفعل يتناقش مع المخرج آر إس براسانا لفيلم hbuhS .naahdvaS lagnaMالمخرج والممثل يتناقشان من أجل فيلم الذي سيركز على الدراما والمشاعر اإلنسانية وإلى اآلن انهى من خمسة إلى ستة مشاريع .لم يتم االتفاق بشكل رسمي بعد ،ولكن يبدو أن عامر قد وافق بالفعل .آخر فيلم رياضي درامي شارك فيه عامر خان كان .lagnaDحقق الفيلم نجاحات كبير في البوكس-أوفس وحصل على عدة جوائز.
اللعب للبقاء بكل تأكيد إن لم يكن تايجر شروف اسما في عالم التمثيل ،كان صنع ً له إما في عالم الجمباز ،الرياضة أو كرة القدم .تمت دعوته إلى مباراة خيرية وأذهل الجميع بمهارات كرة القدم التي يتمتع بها .إال أنه أصيب بجرح خالل اللعب والحظا قلق ديشا باتاني عليه.
86فيلم فير الشرق األوسط أبريل 2021
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أهم األحداث
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عامر خان يتوقف عن استخدام الهاتف وأصالة ترغب بدخول عالم التمثيل
قصة الغالف
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«الدراما السورية تغيرت بعد الحرام» – المخرج والممثل السوري ماهر صليبي الفن هي نافذة اإلنسان للعالم – نجاة مكي في مقابلة من القلب إلى القلب
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