Filmfare-ME-November-2024

India’s SWEETHEART

HOW SHRADDHA KAPOOR SLAYED AND ROSE TO THE TOP

EDITORIAL TEAM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Aakanksha Naval-Shetye aakanksha.naval@starzmediainc.com

Digital Marketing Executive

Shruti Nigam shruti.nigam@starzmediainc.com

Graphic Designer Amit Panchal amit.panchal@starzmediainc.com

BUSINESS HEAD

Kanwal Singh kanwal.singh@starzmediainc.com

Sales Manager Roymon Pascal roymon.pascal@starzmediainc.com

Magazine Co-ordinator Yunus Naik yunus.naik@starzmediainc.com

FILMFARE (INDIA)

Chief Executive Officer Rohit Gopakumar

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

Stree Power!

The temperatures have finally started to dip and the mercury is at last giving in to gravity after going against it all through summer. The cooler evenings are a welcome relief and for the jackets-n-boots obsessed women like me, winters spell unmatched excitement. Also, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of feeling the wind in your hair as you cruise around in your sleek convertibles with the top down… Can’t wait to take those beauties out for a spin can you! But setting aside my personal style quirks and love for cars, Dubai in winters - especially with the festivities in the air - is a complete vibe! Expecting an even heavier tourist footfall this season, the buzz is tremendous. Concerts, shopping, dining, partying… we’re already gearing up for the exciting times coming up!

What has us equally excited are the two dynamic women we have on our covers this month. While the gorgeous stree-of-the-moment Shraddha Kapoor graces our print issue as the November Cover Star, our Digital Cover Star is none other than the iconic powerhouse performer and actor par excellence Tabu! Two stars who we absolutely love and adore, just like the Box Office does! Tabu, who is in a league of her own smashing all set-norms as always was recently in New York being celebrated at the premiere of her mega-international project Dune: Prophecy in company of good friends including Oscar winners Ang Lee and Forest Whitaker, while young gun Shraddha has been creating records back home with yet another blockbuster hit to her credit. Interestingly, the two Strees share quite an amicable bond, so while Shraddha looks up to the trailblazer as inspiration, Tabu too is all love for the dynamic young star and has openly been praising her for the recent success. Well, we decode their journeys, loves and lives in our exclusive interviews with them. So, flip on the pages to read more on these talented screen-scorchers!

Talking of stunning Bollywood women, the festive season also spells glamming up like B-Town divas, as well as gifting your loved near and dear ones. So, if you are looking for some lifestyle, shopping and fashion inspo, we got you covered for all of it in the pages ahead.

And if it is the local buzz that you are looking forward to, then look no further! We had some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry visit Dubai. King Khan Shah Rukh was in town with family – Gauri, Suhana and Aryan for the launch of D’YAVOL. SRK spread his arms, struck his iconic pose and the crowds were won! Also in town was South superstar Suriya with one of Bollywood’s most-loved stars, Bobby Deol to promote their upcoming mega-film Kanguwa that also marks Bobby’s Tamil debut! South star Prabhu Deva too was in town, as was the Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan. Our October Cover Star was in Dubai to celebrate the blockbuster success of his most recent Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and celebrate we did. Check out the exclusive highlights of all these spectacular starry dos that rocked the city in our events segment!

So, while you get your fix of all things fashion, beauty, lifestyle and entertainment, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @filmfareme, subscribe our YouTube and check out our website www.filmfaremiddleeast.com for more updates on the most happening buzz around the city. And till the next one, prep up folks, Winter is Coming!

PEECEE HITS OUT AT TROLLS

SRK TO MAKE A CAMEO IN THIS FILM ALIA BHATT COLLABS WITH ALAN WALKER

CHECK OUT THE TRENDIEST ACCESSORIES THIS WEDDING SEASON FOR HIM & HER

HERE’S OUR PICK OF INTERESTING GIFTS THIS FESTIVE SEASON

SHRADDHA KAPOOR IS ALL THINGS NICE WITH A DASH OF SPICE! ANURADHA CHOUDHARY TALKS TO THE YOUNG STAR WHO’S REIGNING HIGH WITH THE SUCCESS OF STREE 2 12

STORY

STYLE UP WITH MAANG TIKKAS LIKE THESE B-TOWN DIVAS

SIDDHANT CHATURVEDI LAYS BARE HIS EMOTIONS IN A CANDID CONVERSATION WITH JITESH PILLAAI

RICHA CHADHA’S SHINING BRIGHT IN HER NEW ROLES

MANOJ BAJPAYEE TALKS ABOUT COMPLETING A CENTURY AT THE MOVIES

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: AJAY KADAM

STYLIST: NAMRATA DEEPAK

HAIR: NIKITHA MENON

MAKE-UP: SHRADDHA NAIK

OUTFITS: AFEW BY RAHUL MISHRA

JEWELERY: PALMONAS

DIGITAL COVER STAR

26 AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE IN AN EXCLUSIVE CHAT WITH TABU DEMYSTIFIES THE CINEMATIC ENIGMA, AS THEY TALK ABOUT ALL THINGS LOVE, LIFE AND HEART

HIGH ON THE SUCCESS OF MUNJYA, ABHAY VERMA IS RARING TO GO

COVER PHOTOGRAPH : JINISHA PADHARIA

STYLIST : NATASHA VOHRA

HAIR : HIRAL BHATIA

MAKEUP : LEKHA GUPTA

KARTIK AARYAN CELEBRATES THE SUCCESS OF HIS LATEST HIT

POWERHOUSES

SURIYA AND BOBBY DEOL ARE A FORCE TO RECKON WITH AS THEY ATTEND PRESS CONFERENCE OF KANGUWA

GRAM

a bird’s-eye view of show town’s happenings

PRIYANKA CHOPRA JONAS ASKS NETIZENS TO

NOT TROLL HER 9-YEAR-OLD SELF

AR RAHMAN COMES ON BOARD FOR HANSAL MEHTA’S GANDHI

Priyanka Chopra Jonas looks unrecognisable in an old childhood photo. The actress shared a rare picture of her 9-year-old self alongside a photo of herself at 17 when she won the Miss India crown in 2000. Priyanka took to social media to share a then-and-now photo. She added, “So wild to think about what puberty and grooming can do to a girl. On the left is me in my awkward pre teen era with a boy-cut hairstyle so it wouldn’t be cumbersome at school. I went from a katori cut to this. so it was a win. And on the right is me at 17, having just won Miss India in the year 2000 and basking in the glory of hair, makeup and wardrobe... Both pictures were taken less than a decade apart. As Britney Spears very articulately put it... I’m not a girl, not yet a woman. That was exactly how I felt then, entering the big world of entertainment.”

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the makers of the series Gandhi welcomed on board Grammy Award Winner, musical legend AR Rahman. Directed by Hansal Mehta, the series is based on Ramachandra Guha’s de nitive writings. Talking about the same, the music maestro said, “Watching Gandhiji’s younger life is a revelation—his experiments with truth, life, and so many other things show the evolution of his character. I am deeply honoured to be scoring the music for this story, in collaboration with Applause Entertainment and under the articulate direction of Hansal Mehta.”

TAAPSEE PANNU IS BUSY ACTION TRAINING FOR GANDHARI

SHAH RUKH KHAN TO MAKE A CAMEO IN

After Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba and Khel Khel Mein, Taapsee Pannu is currently gearing for her upcoming project, Gandhari The actress is taking her time to prepare for her role. According to our sources, she is preparing to pull off intense action in the movie. She is focusing on action training and to meet the action requirements of her character. She is working on strength, exibility, and stamina training, along with aerial yoga. The lm is directed by Devashish Makhija and written and produced by Kanika Dhillon , it is

Shah Rukh Khan will be making a cameo appearance in YRF Spy Universe’s upcoming movie War 2. The actor will be seen in the post-credit scene as his character Pathaan. SRK will reportedly shoot for his part in 2025. War 2 stars Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani in the lead roles. Directed by Ayan Mukerji scheduled to arrive in theatres during the Independence Day weekend in 2025.

ALIA BHATT COLLABORATES WITH DJ ALAN WALKER

ANIL KAPOOR REFLECTS ON 42 YEARS OF SHAKTI

As Ramesh Sippy’s Shakti completes 42 years, Anil Kapoor took a moment to remember the lm that played a signi cant role in his career early on. He thanked Javed Akhtar for recommending him and recalling how nervous he felt at the time. He also thanked the late Smita Patil for her warmth and kindness, as she offered him her room and made him feel like family during the shoot. Kapoor re ected on how Shakti, which featured cinema icons like Dilip Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan, gave him “unforgettable memories” and helped shape his journey as an actor. He described his time on set as a learning experience that continues to inspire him to this day, with memories “etched in his heart forever.”

expert advice

Alia Bhatt has already established herself as one of the leading ladies of Bollywood. The actress has also made her debut in Hollywood, besides churning out hit projects in Bollywood. She has also collaborated with DJ Alan Walker. Alia perfomed during the Grammy winner’s Walker World India Tour. The performance was an amalgamation of Bollywood and electronic music. The performance also showcased crosscultural collaboration. They performed in front of more than 25,000 people.

NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI SHOOTS FOR A FILM IN BANGKOK

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has begun shooting for a new untitled project. A source close to the actor revealed, “Nawazuddin Siddiqui is in Bangkok for a 40-day schedule, shooting for an upcoming commercial lm. The project promises a unique role for the actor as a lead, adding to his already diverse lmography.” As he continues to break new ground with each performance, the anticipation around this lm grows. During an interview, the actor delved deeper into his process of choosing projects and taking up darker characters. “When I portray a dark character, I relish the opportunity to explore their complexities. In Bollywood, however, deep characterization is not always the norm. Many roles tend to be super cial. If I were to play such roles repeatedly, I’d quickly lose interest.”

THE MAGIC OF CHEMICAL PEEL

An advanced treatment system that involves deep exfoliation of the outer layer of the skin using chemical peels, this procedure can improve the texture, tone, colour of the skin by smoothing fine wrinkles, clearing break-outs, correcting imperfections and scars, reducing the effect of sun damage and stimulating new collagen for visibly healthier, younger looking skin.

WHAT IS CHEMICAL PEEL?

A safe and simple cosmetic treatment that helps improve the appearance of dull, affected or ageing skin, chemical peel is performed using organic acids or peels of defined strengths. The procedure, which is usually done on the face, neck and arms can be safely performed in both men and women including teenagers by trained dermatologists with utmost care and precision.

HOW DO CHEMICAL PEELS WORK?

The technique involves using organic acids or peels to exfoliate the superficial layer of the skin. It induces collagen re-modelling and promotes healthy skin cell regeneration to reveal brighter, younger looking skin with lesser wrinkles, blemishes and scars. It reduces the impact of sun damage and discoloration on the skin, rejuvenates oily, lifeless, acne / pimple prone skin and removes acne scars and hydrates the skin.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHEMICAL PEELS?

Superficial Peel, gently exfoliates the skin to rectify mild skin discoloration.

Medium Peel, penetrates to middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells.

Deep Peel, helps remove moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars.

HOW ARE CHEMICAL PEELS PERFORMED?

The patient’s eyes are closed during the procedure. The skin is cleaned thoroughly and the chemical peel is applied.

The peel is neutralized after the prescribed time. Chemical peels should be done every month for about 6 months to obtain the desired outcomes.

WHAT ARE THE SKIN PROBLEMS / CONDITIONS THAT CAN BE TREATED USING CHEMICAL PEEL?

Chemical Peels help treat:

Acne prone, oily skin

Sun-damaged skin

Ageing skin

Age spots

Wrinkles

Crow’s feet

Hyperpigmentation

Sagging skin

DR. SANA SAJAN

Director of American Aesthetic Medical Center

hellomiss sunshine!

SHRADDHA KAPOOR IS ALL THINGS NICE WITH A DASH OF SPICE. THE ACTRESS CHATS NINETEEN TO THE DOZEN WITH ANURADHA CHOUDHARY

Shraddha

Kapoor is on cloud nine. And why not?

She’s notched up another hit with Stree 2. Just like that.

It seems she’s made a habit of plucking hits out of thin air. Success, she says, is all about doing what you love.

She isn’t fazed by failure either.

Failure, according to her, is just a stepping stone to success.

Nice thought that. Her burgeoning social media numbers indicate that all is well in her world. At the photoshoot, the mercury is soaring high. She’s radiating energy, and our glasses are fogging up. She’s gentle and soft, yet she knows how to galvanise the screen and turn heads. So, I snag her for a chat. Instead of asking the mundane “How are you feeling?” questions, I throw some random stuff at her, and she plays along. The game is on. Read on.

PHOTOGRAPHS: AJAY KADAM | STYLIST: NAMRATA DEEPAK | HAIR: NIKITHA MENON | MAKE-UP: SHRADDHA NAIK |OUTFITS: AFEW BY RAHUL MISHRA | JEWELERY: PALMONAS

I’ve been a part of so many films that have done well. Of course, Stree 2 has gone to a whole new level. But, I’ve mainly only got my validation from myself and my loved ones

SO WHAT ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT RIGHT NOW?

What am I thinking about right now? I’m wondering how much sugar there is in the cold coffee I’m drinking because it’s really delicious.

WORK WISE?

I’m in Delhi for a brand shoot and an event tomorrow. I just got off a call. I was calling home asking how my little puppy is doing. So she is on my mind right now, my little puppy. Her name is Small. Like Small Medium, Large.

WHAT DOES THE SUCCESS OF STREE 2 MEAN TO YOU?

It means a lot. I’m just so happy that in general also this period has been really good for Hindi movies. And also that I’m a part of a film that has done so well and has gotten so much love from the audiences. So I’m feeling very grateful.

DOES THE SUCCESS VALIDATE YOU IN SOME WAY?

Honestly, I’ve been a part of so many films that have done well. Of course, Stree 2 has gone to a whole new level. But, I’ve mainly only got my validation from myself and my loved ones always. So validation aside, as I said, I am very, very grateful.

HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?

For me, success is doing what you love to do and being happy, doing it. For me, success is, being at peace. I’m very close to my family and friends. So for me, success is also leading a balanced life. And also honestly, following your purpose or being on the path of your purpose is success.

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH FAILURE?

Failure is an important stepping stone towards success. Without failure you cannot achieve success. I’ve not heard of anyone having a straightforward path towards success. There’s always some kind of obstacle, something people have had to overcome, and the same thing has been true for me too. A lot of people think that

failure is a negative thing. But if you channelise it and see the positive in it, you can transform it into an aspect of growth in your journey.

DEFINE FAILURE?

I will define failure as a stepping stone to success.

WHAT’S THE COLOUR OF MONDAY?

Every day is very colourful for me. Every single day is a rainbow colour. I look at the world with rose-tinted glasses and every day of mine is like that. Be it Monday, be it Sunday. No Monday blues here ever. It’s always Monday masti for me.

WHAT’S YOUR PRIZED POSSESSION?

My prized possession,… I have this chai cup to which I’m very, very attached. It’s a special cup. I remember I bought it from this shop called Good Earth when I was… how old was I? This was in 2007. I was 19 then. I remember going to the store and thinking this is so expensive. Baap re ek mug ke liye itne paise le rahe hain yeh log. I had started drinking chai then. And I thought now that I have started drinking tea, I have to buy a special cup for myself. So that was a prized possession for me, and it still is.

IF THERE IS A B’TOWN PERSON YOU WANT TO SPY

I’m just so happy that in general also this period has been really good for Hindi movies. And also that I’m a part of a film that has done so well and has gotten so much love from the audiences. So I’m feeling very grateful

Boots: Stuart Weitzman

ON, WHO WOULD IT BE?

I want to spy on my dad and my maasi (Padmini Kolhapure). They are B-town people. Also my brother and my other maasis. So whoever is from B-town in my family, I would want to spy on them. So that I can blackmail them when I need something.

WHAT IS YOUR PET PEEVE?

My pet peeve? You know how you meet people? And they’re like, “Hi. How are you?” And you say, “All well. How are you?” And they go, “All good.” This conversation

is a pet peeve for me. But I also indulge in it.

IF YOU HAVE TO RELOCATE TO ANOTHER COUNTRY, WHICH WOULD IT BE?

My heart belongs in the heartland. No place like home. I would never want to relocate. I would never want to relocate from Juhu or even from my galli. So where’s the question of relocating from the country?

WHAT WOULD YOU TRADE THE FAME AND MONEY FOR?

No need to trade the fame and money. Everything in life is

going perfectly well. Touchwood! I don’t want to change any aspect for anything because everything is working in full balance right now. I’m also so grateful for the way things are. So grateful for everything in my life, the fame, the money, the family, my friends. I’m truly blessed.

WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?

My biggest fear is that someday, I will open my sandwich that I’m eating and there will be ketchup in it. Yuck! I hate ketchup.

WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU NEVER LEAVE YOUR

There are a lot of these memes that keep coming. Whenever there’s rain during the cricket match, memes come out saying, ‘Yahan pe Shraddha a gayi, baarish hone lagi,’ because they’ve associated me with rain a lot.

IF YOU HAVE TO HIT ON A GIRL, WHAT PICKUP LINE WOULD YOU USE?

‘You look like Shraddha Kapoor.’

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON INFIDELITY?

Oh my god. Not for me. Red flag.

Every day is very colourful for me. Every single day is a rainbow colour. I look at the world with rosetinted glasses and every day of mine is like that

HOME WITHOUT?

One thing I never leave home without is my rosetinted glasses with which I view the world.

WHAT’S THE MOST EMBARRASSING THING THAT YOU’VE DONE IN LIFE?

Nothing. I don’t feel like I’ve done anything embarrassing, even if I do something which is technically supposed to be embarrassing. Right now, I just burped in the car and there are like three-four people in the car with me. But I’ve enjoyed the fact that it happened mistakenly so much that I’ve only cracked up.

WHAT’S THE ONE HINDI WORD THAT YOU FIND THE FUNNIEST?

Bulbul. The bird. I think it’s a funny name for a bird.

WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST MEME YOU HAVE SEEN OF YOURSELF?

IF GOD WERE TO GRANT YOU A WISH, WHAT WOULD YOU ASK FOR?

That I hope I’m always able to positively impact others in their lives.

IF YOU HAVE A RED CARPET FAUX PAS, HOW WOULD YOU DEAL WITH IT?

I think, I would only enjoy it and laugh at myself a lot.

WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF CLOTHING THAT YOU WILL NEVER WEAR?

I’m not a huge fan of that leopard print. Leopard prints look good only on leopards.

WHAT’S THE ONE THING THAT YOU STILL DON’T KNOW ABOUT THE INDUSTRY OR CAN’T FIGURE OUT ABOUT THE INDUSTRY?

I don’t think one can really confidently say they know what kind of films will be successful.

I feel if we just put our head down and make a good film and stay true to our vision… and make the kind of film we want to make…then just leave it to the audiences. Only the audiences know what they want.

THE LAST LINE OF

stepping

YOUR AUTOBIOGRAPHY WOULD BE?

This is what dreaming big looks like...

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE INDIAN FOOD?

My favourite Indian food is anything that’s made at home. So maybe it’s a mix of Maharashtrian and Punjabi food. Varan bhat, aloo parantha…

HOW MANY TIMES DO YOU

Failure

is an important

stone towards success...I’ve not heard of anyone having a straightforward path towards success. There’s always some kind of obstacle, something people have had to overcome, and the same thing has been true for me too

CHECK YOURSELF IN THE MIRROR IN A DAY?

Normal. I actually don’t check myself in the mirror. (chuckles) The mirror checks me a lot.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR IDEAL SUMMER GETAWAY LIKE?

Maybe a wildlife sanctuary or a forest reserve or something like that. But it would be very hot in summer. Goa. Goa will also be hot. So Ladakh or Kashmir would be ideal. I think an ideal summer getaway would be a walk to my freezer. North East is also stunning.

BEACH OR HILLS?

‘Main beech mein hoon is answer ke’. I think jungle or a forest.

WHY JUNGLE? Just wildlife.

WHAT’S THE MOST USED EMOTICON IN YOUR CHAT?

The most used emoticon on my chat is a heart emoji.

WHAT WAS THE FIRST HINDI MOVIE YOU SAW?

I don’t remember the first ever Hindi movie I saw. But I’m pretty sure it must have been one of my dad’s (Shakti Kapoor) films. I’m pretty sure. One of the initial films I remember seeing, which also had my dad was Chhota Chetan (1998).

WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE HINDI FILM ACTOR?

I will say my father because I feel he’s genuinely versatile. Also Amitabh Bachchan.

THE FIRST THING YOU DO WHEN YOU WAKE UP IN THE MORNING?

I take a nice long breath and I tell myself that today is going to be the best day of my life. They say if you say your affirmations with your

breathing, it goes into your subconscious.

FIVE MOVIES WHICH ONE MUST WATCH.

Andaz Apna Apna, Chaalbaaz, Pyaasa, 3 Idiots, and Lagaan. THREE PEOPLE WHO YOU WOULD SPEND YOUR TIME WITH? My parents and my brother.

ONE MOVIE YOU WISH YOU WERE A PART OF.

There’s no movie that I wish I was a part of. But I wish I could time travel and go and be a part of all of Guru Dutt films.

NAME THREE FILMS THAT YOU WATCH OVER AND OVER AGAIN.

Andaaz Apna Apna I can watch on repeat. Padosan is a fantastic film which has incredible repeat value. If at all I had to watch a film over and over again, it would be comedy. So it can also be alot of Jim Carrey films.

ONE ACTOR YOU WANT TO ROMANCE ON SCREEN?

I actually don’t think like that. But if I can give a different answer to this. I don’t want to romance this person on screen or anything like that. But if I were to name an actor whose fan I am, it would be Hrithik Roshan. I had the biggest crush on him while growing up.

WHO’S THE MOST SEXIEST GUY IN BOLLYWOOD? Hrithik Roshan. Who else?

A BOLLYWOOD CELEBRITY YOU WOULD WANT AS A NEIGHBOUR. Waheeda Rehman ji.

She’s been one of my most favourite actors of all time.

IF YOU WERE A JOURNALIST, WHO WOULD BE THE FIRST ACTOR YOU WOULD WANT TO INTERVIEW?

The first actor I would want to interview would be my dad.

AND WHAT WOULD YOU ASK HIM?

I would ask him, tell me how it all started. From childhood to now.

My

heart belongs in the heartland. No place like home. I would never want to relocate. I would never want to relocate from Juhu or even from my galli

proud of me, which is really nice.

A FEELING THAT YOU HATE THE MOST. It’s when I’m really hungry. It’s unbearable. I can’t bear hunger.

WHERE DOES IT GO?

I eat a lot, I also workout. I am a Bakasur. I could be like Kumbhakaran, six months sleeping, six months eating.

WHAT’S YOUR IDEA FOR PERFECT HAPPINESS?

My idea of perfect happiness is just keep it simple. Live, we must. I mean, just, looking forward to it every day.

WHICH IS THE LAST MOVIE THAT MADE YOU CRY?

I recently watched The Pursuit Of Happyness again. And I cried.

ONE PROFESSIONAL MISTAKE THAT YOU’LL NEVER MAKE? I can’t even think of what a professional mistake can be. I’m a professional pro-max.

IF NOT AN ACTOR, WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU BE?

No. I can’t imagine being anything else but an actor. Doing exactly what I’m doing. If not an actor, then you’re imagining a different kind of life. And I think people imagine a different kind of life only when they’re not satisfied with their current life. I’m so satisfied that I would only want to be an actor.

WHAT’S THE ONE HABIT OF YOURS YOU WANT YO CHANGE?

THE HAPPIEST MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE WAS…

There’s no one moment like this. But, seeing my parents being really proud of me, those become my happiest moments. I feel like they are constantly

I’m obsessed with pouches and keep wanting to buy more and more pouches be it for little Knick knacks or toiletries or make up. I think I need to be banned from buying anymore pouches. n

I can’t imagine being anything else but an actor. Doing exactly what I’m doing... And I think people imagine a different kind of life only when they’re not satisfied with their current life

theWedding Grandeur

HERE’S OUR PICK OF THE MOST TRENDING WEDDING ACCESSORIES THIS SEASON

TIFFANY & CO.

LA MARQUISE

LA MARQUISE

DIOR

JIMMY CHOO

TIFFANY & CO.

RADO

MONTBLANC CUFFLINKS

ARTIMEN

KALYAN JEWELLERS

VICTORIA BECKHAM

RNG SAFAWALA

COMPILED

SABYASACHI

Love

ofGifting

this festive season

MASSIKA

L'OBJET CHESS SET

LLADRO

MACAW BIRD VASE

FORNASETTI

FRUTTO PROIBITO CANDLE

SOUNDCORE

SPODE CREATURES OF CURIOSITY

STAGG

SPARKEL

DOLCE& GABBANA CASA TUMI

ROBERTO CAVALLI

GUERLAIN

ZERO MAKEUP

TUMI

HUAWEI

JBL

MAANG-NIFICENT ACCESSORIES

Celebrities are pairing glamorous maang tikkas to elevate ethnic attires

Maang tikkas are perfect for channelling your inner Chandramukhi. These beautiful headpieces, often seen on movie stars in period films or on the red carpet, feature stunning designs that can embellish any outfit. Available in styles ranging from subtle and intricate to bold and eye-catching, maang tikkas add a touch of elegance to your look. Whether you're dressing up for a wedding or a special celebration, a maang tikka with intricate work and traditional motifs will make your ensemble appear more vibrant and sophisticated.

JANHVI KAPOOR

PRIYANKA CHOPRA JONAS

KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN

ANANYA PANDAY

KIARA ADVANI

ALIA BHATT

Exquisite Jewellery for Every Occasion

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The brand’s High Jewellery collection stands as a testament to unparalleled excellence, where natural diamonds meet vibrant gemstones in designs destined to become family heirlooms. For a contemporary allure, the best - selling Luna© collection showcases bold geometric patterns in 18K gold, complemented by mother-of-pearl and diamondspieces that make a statement whether worn alone or beautifully layered.

Each La Marquise creation is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that define exceptional fine jewellery, capturing the essence of life’s most cherished moments with timeless elegance.

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Customers can explore and shop the full collection at various boutiques across the GCC, including Mall of the Emirates, Nakheel Mall, City Centre Mirdif, and Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. For those who prefer the convenience of shopping from home, the collection is also available through an immersive digital experience at www.lamarquisejewellery.com or they can connect directly via WhatsApp at +971 58 143 3000.

Luna© Collection

The Lumière Collection

High Jewellery Emerald Earrings

The Artisan Collection - Bangle

The Imperia Collection -Necklace

The La Marquise journey began in

with the vision

TheTabu

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SHE’S AN ICON, IRREPLACEABLE, AND UNSTOPPABLE! IN AN EXCLUSIVE CONVERSATION WITH THE POWER-PERFORMER TABU, AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE TRIES TO DEMYSTIFY THE WOMAN BEHIND THE CINEMATIC ENIGMA AND FIND OUT WHAT MAKES THE STAR A TRUE FORCE TO RECKON WITH IN THE WORLD OF CINEMA WHO EFFORTLESSLY BLENDS MYSTERY AND MASTERY TO WORK HER MAGIC ON THE BIG SCREEN!

Asheer tour de force on the big screen, Tabu has over decades merged box office triumphs seamlessly with unparalleled critical acclaim, not just in Indian cinema, but internationally too. An actor par excellence, Tabu’s magnetic screen presence topped with extraordinary performances that spell versatility, brilliance, and a depth in her craft have catapulted her as an irreplaceable actor in a league of cinema greats. And with an unmatched ability to convey raw emotion and bring out the complexities of her layered characters with aplomb on screen, the powerhouse performer has come to be recognised and celebrated as one of the most compelling figures in cinematic history.

From garnering prestigious awards to gaining global recognition, the iconic star has defined a complete era of cinema and impacted society far beyond her filmography with her brave screen choices. The Padma Shri recipient, winner of two National Awards as well as several Filmfare Awards, the globally-acclaimed actress has shattered

every glass ceiling when it comes to the Box Office, paving the way for women-led movies into the mainstream by proving their commercial viability time and again. Never shying away from taking on challenging roles head on, the acclaimed actress has made realistic women characters being celebrated in all shades of grey, possible in mainstream cinema! Fearless in choices and honest to a fault, it’s an irresistible combination that makes her a rarity in the industry that often pressurises its women to conform to the beaten path. Blending cinematic credibility with box office viability across industries, languages and genres, her versatility continues to be unmatched. So, while she excels in intense dramas like Chandni Bar, Hu Tu Tu, Haider, Maqbool, Astitva, Maachis, she also hits bullseye with her impeccable comic-timing in hardcore massy entertainers like Crew, Bhool Bhulaaiyaa 2, Golmaal Again, Jawaani Jaaneman… Whether it’s a romcom like Cheeni Kum, De De Pyaar De or thrillers like Andhadhun, Drishyam, Kuttey, South

blockbusters like Iruvar, Kaalapaani, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo or internationally-acclaimed films like Mira Nair’s The Namesake, Oscar-winning director Ang Lee’s Life of Pi, and now the highly-anticipated global series Dune: Prophecy, Tabu’s prolific repertoire continues to inspire actors across generations.

I catch up with the gorgeous actress in Mumbai on a Saturday afternoon. There’s a lot happening – in between her shoots and script reading, she’s also prepping to fly to New York to attend the premiere of the highly-anticipated Dune: Prophecy, and make it back in time to celebrate her birthday with her family. I’m meeting her after long and she puts aside everything to settle down for a candid chat over unending cups of chai coming in from her kitchen. She is one of the very few I know, who is totally unfazed by age. And why wouldn’t she be. Afterall, Tabu enjoys a longevity at the BO that has largely been a domain reserved for our heroes!

“Maine yeh sab kabhi socha nahin yaar, I just enjoy sinking my teeth in what I hope will be tasteful roles. Kuch achhe nikalte hain, kabhi kabhi daant khattey bhi ho jaatey hain. But I relish the experience,” she says in all honesty, flashing her most candid smile. In fact, being brutally honest has been a trait that has remained untouched in her for over three decades since her debut. Navigating through the highs and lows, the actress stands triumphant today in a league of her own and far beyond the reach of most others! “I just believe in being in the moment, enjoying what I’m doing, feeling it intensely, loving intensely and living passionately,” she smiles, as we dive headlong in a candid tete-a-tete talking all things life, love and demystifying the irreplaceable Tabu!

Whenyou grow up with that kind of fearless but respectful value system where you learn to respect yourself before catering to outside pressures, ki jo accha nahi lag raha hai mat karo, koi zarurat nahi hai… you have the confidence to take on anything the world throws at you!

Whether it is critical acclaim or commercial viability at the Box Office, Hindi cinema, South film industry, OTT or the West… You are hailed as one of the most celebrated stars of Indian cinema… I really never have an answer for this. I just feel blessed to be so loved and accepted by fans, by filmmakers who have always entrusted me with some of their most challenging works, having full faith that I would be able to do justice to those roles on screen. For me, there has never been a career chart drawn that I wished to follow. What has been

there is only the intention to do good work, excel in it and do a fabulous job to the best of my abilities as an actor, whatever project it is. And going forward too that is always going to be the intention. I am grateful for all the titles and honours, but they are not a draw for me. I’m a growth junkie, so for me growing in experience, as an actor and as an individual is far more important for me.

You enjoy the kind of longevity that has usually been reserved for and was largely considered the domain of male superstars. Like post-40s when most ‘heroines’ are rethinking positioning, you further

strengthened your Box Office credibility. How have you stayed so relevant across generations, industries both Indian and globally?

I think subconsciously as an actor the abilities do get honed with every cinematic experience, but I think in my case it has largely to do with the fact that I have never been afraid to explore unchartered territories when it comes to choosing scripts and push those boundaries for myself as an actor. I don’t think like a heroine, I think like an actor, so my approach is multi-layered rather than being just singledimensional. Not that I have not done those singledimensional roles and not enjoyed them, I have loved

each one and I own them all with pride too! But I have organically also grown to challenge myself. Not for any titles, but to grow as an actor. And that hunger, those experiences I think rub off on your artistic approach and performances. And thankfully, there is no end to this. This job we do as actors is so alive that every day we have a new experience with our own craft, with understanding of the industry... There’re so many things that really dictate the choices that you make and the work you do. You don’t consciously sit and prepare your map, but I do have a simple rule to follow along my journey. Anything that stifles me, anything that restricts me,

troubles me is not going to be a part of my life. I want to keep growing and be limitless in my life in every aspect. Rest all is just the outcome of the choices driven by a need to do something more exciting and challenging than what has been done already.

You have achieved so many milestones effortlessly – whether they are awards or your iconic roles! Effortless maybe, because, like I said, it was never planned, nor was it on any of my to-do lists (laughs). All I’ve done is tried to give in my 100 per cent to the roles and to the characters. I did not set out with an agenda to try and redefine women-centric films or do specific heroine-centric roles, or any specific genres. I have always been very open to any genre as long as the script and the role excites me or challenges me. I don’t have a judgement about any genre. And I have been very fortunate that filmmakers from all genres have come to me and I worked with all of them irrespective of the genre.

But was there a specific draw to doing the strong women-oriented films back when they were not considered a mainstream genre?

I think more than wanting to be a part of heroineoriented films, or like they were called women-centric ones, especially Astitva and Chandni Bar, I did those not so much for the genre they belong to but because the women roles were unconventional. They were not the regular conventional heroines, especially the ones we saw in the mainstream commercial cinema. And I did have an issue as to why can’t even mainstream commercial cinema have these women characters that are real, flawed, have layers and not necessarily be painted in ‘holier than thou’ images. So that for me was challenging and exciting to explore.

Yeh hypocritical moral values ka chakkar mujhe bohot boring lagta tha honestly. The disparity between reel women and real women was so huge and that was something that bothered me.

I’m not saying that everything that happens in the society needs to be out there, but there can’t be total disconnect between women’s depiction in pop-culture and performing arts from the real world!

Do you ever think of how it was the commercial success of your films like a Chandni Bar or a Hu Tu Tu that bridged that gap of films with real-women characters breaking out of the arthouse or parallel cinema domain and becoming a part of mainstream cinema. In fact, it paved the way

for more filmmakers exploring, presenting and celebrating the women characters in all their shades in mainstream cinema… So many actresses and directors have actually benefitted from your fearless choices… I don’t think of it so much

as a personal triumph, although my industry friends and peers never let me forget this (laughs). Back then, I was not looking at revolutionizing anything, but it was definitely an internal fight for me as an

actor. It was something that troubled me and I wanted to establish as an actor. The quintessential film heroine we saw in mainstream were women characters largely defined by society rules of good and bad. And I’m talking about majority, not all, so this is not a generic statement for all the films. Of course, they did have their presence felt and I loved doing all that too but they were one-dimensional to a large extent. And I was craving to play characters that had a mind of their own that you could see on screen. And I think I fought for the women I played on screen. I think I was somewhere fighting for the women they were, their journeys and stories. I think I wanted representation for women from all walks of life and a lot of women identified with the characters I could portray on screen. See, the fear of filmmakers and of the business was that it was risky and so radical to represent and portray these women, because they were afraid that audience will not accept such characters. But when women could identify with the roles and several of these characters I played, that did prove to be somewhat of a gamechanger, because in some way the women got a voice.

You came to be known as the ‘thinking man’s heroine’! But wasn’t playing such strong, real and radical women characters a huge career risk for a mainstream commercial heroine like you… I never thought of it as a risk or not. But yeh hypocritical moral values ka chakkar mujhe bohot boring lagta tha honestly The disparity between reel women and real women was so huge, and that was something that bothered me. I’m not saying that everything that happens in the society needs to be out there, but there can’t be total disconnect between women’s depiction in popculture and performing arts from the real world! The

sexual representation of women was largely only through dressing them provocatively or ‘bold scenes’! So, sensual women were there, but what was largely missing was the portrayal of women as main leads whose desires were explored in an intelligent, mature way or them to be portrayed in a completely radical way like in Hu Tu Tu. Heroines wearing bikinis was there, but when it came to the intellectual expression of their sexuality or showing any grey shades, there were reservations. My thing was that there are so many ways to have real women get some representation with their sexuality! I’m very proud of Chandni Bar because the lead heroine was a bar-dancer. Till then they were relegated to being the vamps or molls. The success of Chandni Bar really changed things. And I’m happy that it gave the confidence to many other actors and many filmmakers to attempt movies like that where the heroine was not just some rich, pretty face or a good, docile, girl.

You have been just as fearless and bold in real too!

All I know is that I have been real and I have been uncompromisingly, unapologetically me. There have been times I have gone against what people were asking me to do and I think 90 per cent of the times, people were always stopping me from what I wanted to do. So many of my managers would be fed up of me for my choices or refusing on the big films (laughs). But I always did what I felt right and I did knowing well that good or bad, I have the guts to face and own up the consequences too.

Where do you get that courage to just follow your heart in this industry?

I think I’ve grown up like that. We’ve always heard these things from my grandmother and from

my mother ki jo accha lag raha hai vo karo aur jo accha nahi lag raha hai mat karo. It was as simple as that. When you grow up with that kind of fearless but respectful value system where you learn to respect yourself before catering to outside pressures, ki jo accha nahi lag raha hai mat karo, koizarurat nahin hai… you have the confidence to take on anything the world throws at you! Also when I started, becoming an actress was first of all never a dream. So there was never a fear of failure or insecurity at any stage. It was more like, ‘Hua toh hua, nahin hua toh jaane do!’ and never like, ‘Actress nahin banungi to mar jaungi, aur mujhe famous hona hi hai’. So,

There’re so many

things that really dictate the choices that you make

and the work you do. You don’t consciously sit and prepare your map, but I do have a simple rule to follow along my journey. Anything that stifles me, anything that restricts me, troubles me is not going to be a part of my life.

I guess it’s my genes, and my family that has always lived like that ki apne dil se jeeyenge, jo karna hai karenge, kisi ko rehna hai rahe, nahi rehna hai, good luck to you! (laughs) So, we’re all very strong minded people in family, especially the women in my family. We are very clear even if we are making mistakes, they’ll be our mistakes. For me it was like I’m doing this thing, if it does not work, it’s my problem! I’m not going to come and ask you for help if my choices don’t work. And if they work and if it works for you in some way, great! You can totally take advantage of that and I’m okay with it too.

You’re known for this brutal honesty, yet are quite the favourite with your co-stars and filmmakers love to repeat you in their movies… I think because professionally they believe in my abilities and they know what I bring to the character and the table. And once we work there’s usually such deep connections formed, that the respect is topped with a lot of love and genuine mutual admiration too, and also because I think I’m loveable like that (laughs).

That is true. People assume you to be really intense and broody kind of a person, but those who know you swear that you are one of the most fun-loving people to be around!

I think I’m a funny person and I have always had funny people around me. Like my family is full of people with a great sense of humor. In fact, there’s a thumb-rule in our family that anybody who is getting married, pehle uske spouse ka sense of humour test hota hai. Sorry, but people with a bad sense of humor are not allowed in my house (laughs).

So, what is the real Tabu like?

We are so many people in one… With my mother, I’m the daughter with a certain temperament and she gets

a side of me that no one else will get to see, on a film I’m a professional, so different people bring out different facets of you. But at the core, I am a very direct person, not good at being diplomatic or hiding anything that I feel. My friends and my family matter the most to me and my Chinu (pet pooch) too. I think relationships form the core of my existence and I’m blessed to have people in my life who I cherish, who love me, and will be there till the end. I believe in deep relationships and meaningful experiences, that’s all there is to life! That’s why I even enjoy doing films across genres and languages and regions, here or in the West. I enjoy that experience, feeling the emotions, it’s like running your fingers through the different textures of life and its beautiful.

And what’s your take on love and relationships and life?

A very close friend who knows me really well, once told me, ‘if something is not intense enough for you, it will not work for you’ and I think that is a 100 per cent true. Like I’m a growth junkie, I’m also a feelings and an experience junkie. I feel deeply, I love deeply and live passionately. For me, the fun and the pleasure is in going beyond the bare minimum of a survival mode and experiencing the entire gambit of emotions… the highs and lows and anything that goes with it because I think my bandwidth is really high and if I’m not getting that kind of an enriching experience out of anything, I’ll get really bored. Maybe because I feel everything very intensely, surface level gets a little boring. When it comes to relationships, friendships, basic human equations, I don’t know any other way, than to be in it intensely and feel everything deeply from the heart. And I’m able to appreciate the highs of

every relationship and feel the loss of it too just as intensely. I literally live in moments. Kuch plan nahin karti, because life ke apne plans hote hain! You can’t predict anything, so you are open to getting hurt. But there is no other way I know to live!

A lot of actresses talk about being inspired by your repertoire… That is very lovely of them. I have tremendous amount of love for them and its touching to see the kind of love they have for me. And with many of them, it goes beyond work. I love them and they give me so much of love and respect that it fills my heart.

Do you ever pause and say to yourself a ‘well done Tabu’? No, never needed to,

all of you, my fans, filmmakers… have done it for me (laughs)!

So no looking back and no regrets?

None at all. I think the pandemic too just showed us how some things that seemed so important are just so insignificant in a larger scheme of things and also showed us things that are truly valuable. So, chill karo. Live the moment. It’s a very individual choice about what you are willing to put at stake and if it’s even worth it. Like I would be willing to go to any lengths for the people who matter to me, but when it comes to work I believe that what I’m worthy of, will find me! So, everything happened and will happen for a reason and I’d rather enjoy every moment now than think of what was and what will be.

A Quick

Direct, lazy, fun!

Tabu

3 Words that best describe you?

If you could be any one character from the roles that you’ve played on screen in real life, which one would it be?

Oh my God, good question! Nina Verma from Cheeni Kum!

Tell us one thing about you that no one knows?

I cannot bear crumpled clothes! Like I will totally judge you if you take out clothes from the wardrobe and just wear it without ironing it. Like they can get crumpled after you wear it, but getting into crumpled clothes is a big no no!

Your strength is?

My mother

Which of your film should get a sequel? Chandni Bar would be interesting…

Your birthday wish?

That these birthdays should not come so soon (laughs)!

One rumour about you that you wish was true?

When I was doing Hu Tu Tu, there was this rumour that I bathe in milk. I really wish that was true.

All I know is that I have been real and I have been uncompromisingly, unapologetically me. There have been times I have gone against what people were asking me to do and I think 90 per cent of the times, people were always stopping me from what I wanted to do...

COVER SHOOT AND ALL PHOTOGRAPS : JINISHA PADHARIA | STYLIST : NATASHA VOHRA

HAIR : HIRAL BHATIA

MAKEUP : LEKHA GUPTA

Soul

SURVIVOR

SIDDHANT CHATURVEDI LAYS BARE HIS EMOTIONS TO JITESH PILLAAI, WHO LISTENS WITH A TEARY-EYED ATTENTION

IN KHO GAYE HUM KAHAN, WHAT REALLY INTRIGUED ME WAS THE TOPIC OF CHILD ABUSE. DID YOU DO ANY KIND OF RESEARCH ON IT FOR YOUR ROLE?

It was a sensitive topic to deal with and could have gone the other way. I had no reference point to play someone like that.

YOU DIDN’T RESEARCH IT?

Director Arjun Varain Singh and I spent a month meeting therapists and survivors to understand the impact of deeprooted trauma and how it shapes one’s behaviour and childhood. I had to deeply empathise with the subject, which made me uneasy but essential for my performance. The final take you saw was spontaneous; Arjun gave me freedom to express the emotions naturally, which led to genuine tears on screen.

We worked closely with Zoya on crafting the monologue to convey the protagonist’s long-held pain in a sincere, non-preachy way. The audience’s connection and feedback were overwhelming after the film’s release. After the release I got so many messages.

FROM MEN?

Men from around the world reached out, expressing how the film resonated with their own experiences and thanked us for giving voice to something rarely discussed. It’s a shame that such important topics are often ignored.

MEN DO NOT TALK ABOUT ABUSE AT ALL. NOR DO THEY INVEST IN MENTAL HEALTH. I’ve reached a point where life feels like a daily celebration at home. My parents are proud

My interview with Siddhant Chaturvedi is a hugely emotional affair. He breaks down while talking about his parents and how they supported him during his initial days. My eyes well up listening to the tumultuous outpouring of emotions. Then, realising that things are getting too heavy, he shifts gears and starts joking around, making the ambience light again. The talk becomes more sedate when he starts talking about relationships. He goes on to describe how awkward he felt during the intimacy workshop with Deepika Padukone. He describes himself as raw, awkward, shy and vulnerable. Quite unlike the macho image we have of him. He speaks candidly and lets it all out. The interview is a sort of catharsis for him. Listening to him, recording his sentiments, makes my own heart weigh a little lighter. Excerpts:

and happy and I find my own happiness and peace through them and my friends. However, reflecting on the journey, I realise that the toughest period was the five or six years of daily rejection. Leaving a stable career as a chartered accountant to pursue my dreams brought uncertainty and hardship I hadn’t anticipated. Once I achieved my goals, I was so focused on the success that I ignored the emotional baggage of rejection and frustration.

Now that things are going well, these suppressed feelings are resurfacing. My past frustrations, anger and shame are leaking into my current relationships and my daily life. This realisation has made me more aware of the importance of mental health. Achieving success doesn’t erase past scars; they need healing. To address this, I talk openly with my parents and brother. I also write as a form of expression.

PARENTS ARE ALWAYS THE

Kho Gayen Hum Kahan

NAYSAYERS WHEN THEIR CHILD TELLS THEM HE WANTS TO PURSUE ACTING. BUT YOUR FATHER ALWAYS SUPPORTED YOU. IS IT BECAUSE HE’S AN AVID MOVIE BUFF HIMSELF?

Yes, he’s a complete movie buff. He used to buy Mayapuri, which published stars’ addresses. He would write letters to them. In Ballia, films arrived a year or two late and they couldn’t afford tickets, so they would peep through a hole to watch parts of movies over the course of a week. For him, my CA career was a safety net because we were too ashamed to voice our true dreams. Even after the success of Inside Edge, my father never told our friends or neighbours that I’ve taken up acting as my career. It wasn’t until the success of Gully Boy that he finally acknowledged my achievements.

WHAT WAS YOUR BREAKOUT MOMENT?

I loved Gully Boy. I felt a strong connection to the character, which made me decide to take a leap of faith. I knew this would lead to more work. But I wasn’t involved in promotions or the Berlin event. I stayed home, tracking everything from afar and saw the positive feedback through clips in my family WhatsApp group. That year was challenging as I felt stuck and unable to move forward or backward.

WE’VE HEARD THAT THE SCREENING OF THE FILM WAS AN EMOTIONAL MOMENT FOR YOU…

I remember the screening of Gully Boy was in Juhu PVR. Alia entered the elevator with us. And she was like, “Your life is going to change. You know that?” I was like, “I don’t know.” She’s like, “Yeah, it will.” I took my parents to the cast and crew screening as I felt I would be more comfortable there among friends. And I wasn’t able to watch the film. Because every time I turned around, I could see my parents were getting emotional.

My dad was openly crying. I couldn’t concentrate on what was happening on the screen. My dad has watched that film 25 times in different theatres. But I haven’t watched Gully Boy. I couldn’t watch it. Because everytime I start watching it, all I can see before my eyes are the tear-laden faces of my parents.

WRITING BECAME A THERAPEUTIC OUTLET FOR ME. I ALSO PAINT, OFTEN DEPICTING HORSES, CHILDHOOD MEMORIES, OR SCENES FROM MY VILLAGE. I PAINT WHEN I FEEL LONELY. DANCING HELPS ME EXPRESS MY EMOTIONS, AS I PREFER NOT TO KEEP FEELINGS BOTTLED UP

SO EVERY TIME YOU DO A GOOD FILM, YOU WON’T WATCH IT? I watch all my bad films and enjoy them, even if they don’t work. For example, I watched Phone Bhooth and loved it, thinking, “What’s the problem? It’s actually pretty good.”

A STORY GOES THAT ONCE YOU THREW A TANTRUM AND YOUR GRANDFATHER BOUGHT YOU A HORSE.

My dadaji used to pamper me, and we lived in a big house surrounded by open fields. When my dad got a job in Mumbai, we moved to a small oneBHK rented space, which felt overwhelming and confusing. I struggled with

the displacement and took a long time to adjust. Back in Ballia, I was expressive, naughty and fun-loving. But in Mumbai, I became silent, as the city culture was very different.

SO YOU FELT A CULTURE SHOCK WHEN YOU JOINED A MUMBAI SCHOOL

I only spoke Bhojpuri and couldn’t communicate in Hindi or English when I started at Pink Rose Senior KG in Mumbai. I didn’t even know basic things like where to go to the bathroom, as I was used to peeing in open fields. Overwhelmed, I ran back to my village after a year because I missed my grandparents and couldn’t cope. My parents then enrolled me in a local school but I struggled without my mom. Despite

ACHIEVING SUCCESS DOESN’T ERASE PAST SCARS; THEY NEED HEALING. TO ADDRESS THIS, I TALK OPENLY WITH MY PARENTS AND BROTHER. I ALSO WRITE AS A FORM OF EXPRESSION

the challenges, I know my grandfather, who has since passed away, would be proud of how far I’ve come, and I believe all my parents’ efforts were worthwhile.

SO YOU’RE A WRITER, ACTOR, POET, SINGER. DO YOU CHANNELISE ALL YOUR ANGST AND ANGER, PAIN INTO YOUR SINGING?

English was a late addition to my life until 12th grade. And I wasn’t as proficient as those

around me, which made me self-conscious. However, I eventually improved my English to the point where I could hold conversations. I wasn’t involved in acting until I was 15, and things evolved quickly from there. Watching films helped, and I picked up the guitar to impress a girl whose favourite song was The Scientist by Coldplay. I learnt it in four days to play for her birthday, which sparked my interest in singing and songwriting. Although I’m a better rapper, I began writing poetry and turning it into lyrics with the help of musician friends. Writing became a therapeutic outlet for me. I also paint, often depicting horses, childhood memories, or scenes from my village.I paint when I feel lonely. Dancing helps me express my emotions, as I prefer not to keep feelings bottled up. I’m transparent with my loved ones, especially my mom. I channel my remaining emotions into creative outlets.

DO YOU FIND PEOPLE TRYING TO CURB YOUR NATURAL SPIRIT?

No, people have been very kind to me. From Karan Anshuman on Inside Edge to producers Ritesh Sidhwani, Karan Johar and Adi Sir, everyone has been supportive and respectful. I truly appreciate their support. And you’ve been great too. My first Filmfare in Assam, was incredibly special to me.

TELL US ABOUT IT.

My dad still talks about that Filmfare event. It was the first time I took my parents to an award show. He remembers everything: the custom-made suit, my mom’s Banarasi saree and how we all coordinated. It’s a cherished memory for him. We were on the same flight as other attendees and stayed at a hotel where he met industry figures like Ramesh Taurani and Ramesh Sippy. For him, it was a memorable experience. Years ago, when we attended a Filmfare event, we were seated far from the stage and couldn’t see much, which embarrassed my dad. This time, sitting in the second row, we were warmly greeted by stars like Varun (Dhawan), Alia

(Bhatt), Ranveer (Singh) and Ayushmann (Khurrana). Their kindness and respect for my parents made the event even more special. Afterward, we relaxed at the hotel, where my dad enjoyed breakfast with my industry friends. The entire trip was unforgettable, and the photo of my mom holding the Filmfare trophy remains a cherished memory.

YOU’VE GOT A CLOSE KNIT OF FRIENDS. SO ARE STABLE FRIENDSHIPS POSSIBLE, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU’RE VYING FOR THE SAME KIND OF ROLES? I’ve only experienced true

ALL OF THAT BODY PLAY... I was initially unsure how to handle intimate scenes. When Shakun told me about it, I thought it was just holding hands. However, he explained that in his film, “intimacy” involves more than that and requires a specific approach to ensure both actors are comfortable. He suggested a workshop to break the barrier and make sure both parties felt safe. So, I went to Anahita Adajania’’s place for a screen test with Deepika Padukone. The director left us alone with the camera, and I felt awkward and shy,

authenticity in friendship a few times. For instance, Shakun Batra, Arjun, Zoya and Farhan are close friends. We often connect, whether it’s playing cricket or meeting up. Adarsh Gourav is an exception, as we bonded during auditions where we swapped roles—he auditioned for MC Sher and I for White Tiger. We’ve worked together and kept in touch regularly. He’s now making waves in Hollywood, which makes me happy for him. Ishaan Khatter is another friend who keeps things chill. He even broke the news to me about my film being called Dhadak 2. We have a good rapport, and I share a similar connection with Ananya (Panday), where we always wish each other well. Her mom and my mom even bonded like old friends after Kho Gaye Hum Kahan.

WHEN YOU DID GEHRAIYAAN, THERE WAS A LOT OF KISSING AND

INTIMATE WITH A WOMAN BEFORE THAT IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE. SO WHAT WAS THE PROBLEM? I’m shy because I’ve never made the first move, so I struggle with it. Karan (Johar) called me out on it, telling me to be a professional and just do it. That’s why we had to extend the intimacy workshop from a week to a month. It was challenging because Deepika Padukone is not only extremely beautiful but also she’s Ranveer Singh’s wife, whom I’m very close with, and this added to the pressure. Over the month, we did trust exercises and bonded. Despite initially laughing

DEEPIKA PADUKONE IS NOT ONLY EXTREMELY BEAUTIFUL BUT ALSO SHE’S RANVEER SINGH’S WIFE, WHOM I’M VERY CLOSE WITH AND THIS ADDED TO THE PRESSURE. OVER THE MONTH, WE DID TRUST EXERCISES AND BONDED. DESPITE INITIALLY LAUGHING AT MY DISCOMFORT, DEEPIKA WAS VERY UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORTIVE

struggling to be romantic and intimate on camera. I didn’t feel confident and ended up bombing the test. Shakun called me again but I was still unsure. I didn’t have the cultural reference for these scenes and felt overwhelmed. My father advised me to push through, emphasising that most people in India would jump at the chance. He encouraged me to be professional, redefine what’s possible and seize this opportunity with Dharma Productions, Deepika and Shakun Batra.

YOU’D OBVIOUSLY HAVE BEEN

at my discomfort, Deepika was very understanding and supportive. Eventually, we became good friends and the process felt like learning a dance routine.

HOW DID YOUR RELATIVES REACT TO YOUR INTIMATE SCENES?

People felt that even though I’m an actor, I was living out their dreams instead of my own. My uncle couldn’t say much—he just smiled and blushed. For a year, they looked at me with smiles, never directly addressing it. When my parents and I watched the film together, I sat separately from them.

Gehraiyaan

Yodha

I REMEMBER THE SCREENING OF GULLY BOY WAS IN JUHU PVR. ALIA ENTERED THE ELEVATOR WITH US. AND SHE WAS LIKE, “YOUR LIFE IS GOING TO CHANGE. YOU KNOW THAT?” I WAS LIKE, “I DON’T KNOW.” SHE’S LIKE, “YEAH, IT WILL.”

I ONLY SPOKE BHOJPURI AND COULDN’T COMMUNICATE IN HINDI OR ENGLISH WHEN I STARTED AT PINK ROSE SENIOR KG IN MUMBAI. I DIDN’T EVEN KNOW BASIC THINGS LIKE WHERE TO GO TO THE BATHROOM, AS I WAS USED TO PEEING IN OPEN FIELDS

Afterward, I asked my dad for his opinion. He said, “The performance was good but it felt like too much.” Despite this, he liked the film and appreciated it overall.

WHAT ARE THE RED FLAGS IN A RELATIONSHIP?

Relationships, till now, for me, are not transactional. There’s nothing which I want to negotiate. I give it my all. To an extent where I become the red flag.

YOU ARE A RED FLAG?

I don’t know. Till now, the experiences I’ve had, the things that have happened in my life, make me feel like I’m the red flag. People have handed me the red flag and left. “Forgive me. It won’t happen.”

ARE YOU OBSESSIVE? ARE YOU PASSIONATE?

No, it’s not like that. I’m passionate not obsessive or possessive. I have clear priorities and ambitions, which require sacrifices. Achieving my goals means giving up certain things, and while I strive to balance everything, some challenges persist. Despite this, the people I’ve been with have been wonderful.

WHY DIDN’T THE RELATIONSHIPS WORK OUT?

The first relationship didn’t work out because I was 19, focused on my CA studies and

deeply in love. We dated for three years and planned to marry.But when I decided to pursue acting, she couldn’t accept that change. She wanted marriage soon and I couldn’t give her that. I chose my career, promising to make it worth it. Now she’s married and happy, just like I am. It feels like a La La Land ending. The second relationship happened while I was shooting Gully Boy. My mental state was challenging, and when the film finally came out, adjusting to the sudden change was hard for both me and my partner. She struggled to understand the whirlwind of my life, which led to the relationship fizzling out. We’ll see what the future holds.

NO MARRIAGE ON THE CARDS? Not right now. I was all for it when I was 19.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A 20-YEAR-OLD SIDDHANT?

I don’t know that guy anymore—it’s almost like a time paradox. Changing even a small detail or passing on a message would alter everything, including my presence here. He did everything right, so there’s nothing to change. In fact, I’d want his advice now because my faith and perspective on life have shifted. At 30, I view life very differently than I did back then.

Gully Boy

THE WHAT, WHERE, WHO IN THE CITY

DUBAI SCOPE

WHAT: WHO:

KARTIK AARYAN

OUR OCTOBER COVER STAR KARTIK AARYAN WAS IN THE CITY TO CELEBRATE THE SUCCESS OF HIS BLOCKBUSTER HIT BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE BOLLYWOOD HEARTTHROB FOR A CANDID CONVERSATION AS HE SPOKE ABOUT HIS BACK-TO-BACK SUCCESS RUN THIS YEAR WITH THE CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED CHANDU CHAMPION FOLLOWED BY BB3. FULL INTERVIEW OUT ON YOUTUBE

PHOTOGRAPHY: YASIR ARAFAT | VIDEOGRAPHY: JAFAR VETTIYIL

Anjumm Shharma

Abhishek Banerjee Shilpa Rao

WHO:

SHAH RUKH KHAN, ARYAN KHAN, GAURI KHAN, SUHANA KHAN

WHAT:

SHAH RUKH KHAN LAUNCHED SON ARYAN KHAN’S LUXURY STREETWEAR BRAND

D’YAVOL AT AN EXCLUSIVE PARTY IN THE CITY. STRIKING HIS ICONIC POSE, THE SUPERSTAR EVEN DANCED TO A FEW OF HIS SONGS. ALSO PRESENT WERE ARYAN, GAURI AND SUHANA

Shah Rukh Khan

Aakanksha Naval-Shetye and Jumana Khan Sanjay Kapoor

Amir Khan Mo Vlogs and Abdu Rozik

Gauri Khan

Aryan Khan Suhana Khan

WHAT: WHO:

RIZWAN SAJAN, PRABHU DEVA, GULSHAN GROVER

DANUBE GROUP FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN MR RIZWAN SAJAN AND PRABHU DEVA SEEN SHARING SOME LIGHT MOMENTS. ALSO (BELOW) MR RIZWAN WITH GOOD FRIEND GULSHAN GROVER AND GUEST.

WHAT: WHO:

VARUN DHAWAN, SAMANTHA RUTH PRABHU, RAJ & DK THE STAR CAST OF CITADEL: HONEY BUNNY INCLUDING VARUN DHAWAN, SAMANTHA RUTH PRABHU, SIKANDAR KHER, KASHVI MAJUMDAR ALONGWITH WRITER SITA MENON AND DIRECTOR DUO RAJ – DK ATTENDED THE SPECTACULAR TRAILER LAUNCH OF THE PRIME VIDEO ORIGINAL SPY-SERIES HELD AT A GRAND EVENT IN MUMBAI. THE ACTION-PACKED THRILLER IS THE INDIAN CHAPTER OF CITADEL’S GLOBAL SPY UNIVERSE CREATED BY RUSSO BROTHERS – ANTHONY AND JOE. THE SHOW ALSO STARS SAQIB SALEEM, KAY KAY MENON, SOHAM MAJUMDAR AND SHIVANKIT PARISHAR. THE SERIES IS BEING EXTREMELY WELL-RECEIVED AND THE FRESH PAIRING HAS STRUCK A CHORD WITH THE OTT AUDIENCE.

That happy Richa Chadha

RICHA CHADHA SHONE BRIGHT IN HER ROLE AS LAJJO IN HEERAMANDI TANISHA BHATTACHARYA CHATS WITH THE ACTRESS ABOUT WORKING WITH SANJAY LEELA BHANSALI AND MORE…

Richa Chadha, who has always managed to leave a mark with her performances, recently made her presence felt in her small but significant role as Lajjo in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s OTT series, Heeramandi. Beyond her acting prowess, Richa is also known for her unwavering political activism, standing by her beliefs and using her platform to advocate for various causes. She opens up about her career choices, her journey in the entertainment industry, and the causes close to her heart. Here are some excerpts from our candid conversation with the talented and passionate Richa Chadda.

If not Lajjo, which role would you have loved to play in Heeramandi?

I think I would have loved to; of course, if I were older, I’d have loved to do the mercurial character of Mallika Jaan, played by Manisha Koirala so beautifully. But right now, even Fareedan, played by Sonakshi Sinha, is a very nice character, according to me.

Lajjo is all about love, loss, heartbreaks, and a staggering strength through it all. Can you tell us about your biggest heartbreak in love? My biggest heartbreak? I don’t think it has to do with love. My biggest heartbreak sometimes is to see a forest being cut down or a democracy dying, because those are the things that impact everyone.

Would you describe yourself as a method actor? You’ve mentioned in an interview how you drank to get a scene right in Heeramandi. No, I don’t think I’m a method actor. It was just the day that 99 takes happened, and I still wasn’t getting the right shot. So for that, I thought maybe I could use alcohol for a little bit, but honestly, it didn’t help. It only made things worse.

What was your husband, Ali Fazal’s reaction to your role? He felt very proud of me, and he said he was. He was quite happy because he was sitting next to me at the screening. He’s very happy to see me like that on screen, and I think he had a great time at the screening too. Ali’s always been my biggest cheerleader in the fan club. We both know that. He’s also boastful whenever he sees

me performing on screen or achieving something great on stage. It’s good to have a partner who can be your champion.

Would you say Sanjay Leela Bhansali has been that one director who has truly understood your strengths and weaknessesas an actor? I would definitely think that. My work with Bhansali sir has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my entire career. It’s always such that people on the independent side tend to think that it’s easy to do commercial work, but the grammar, the sheer physical effort—it takes the amount of hard work you need to put into the number of things you need to manage. Your desire to sell that genre to yourself and to the audience is so immense that I hope people can see that it’s not easy. Not today.Not before today. This is just not an easy thing.

Go on…

Also, I’d like to add that SLB is not simply happy with telling a story. Like in my case for Heeramandi, he’s not simply happy with a good dance sequence. He wants there to be a breakdown in real time that is layered with the dance he wants it to be. Work on the pain in the voice, along with acting well and remembering their lines and character. So I personally enjoy working with him. It’s rewarding for me, and I’ve never done a character that receives so much unanimous love.

Can you recall a moment in the initial phase, say in Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-

Leela, where SLB was hard on you?

I don’t think he’s ever scolded me. He always guided me patiently through the difficult portions. Like the scene in Ram-Leela, where my character Raseela goes into the enemy territory and gets almost molested and sexually assaulted, that was quite challenging. Of course, it’s challenging for any woman to experience that, even in a fictional landscape. And it was tough on the boys for that scene because, on the one hand, they had to appear brutal, but on the contrary, they had to take care of me and not physically hurt me because they had to lift me and put me down.

How would you define your emotional strength off camera?

I would say I’m emotionally strong. Most women are, and I think that’s why God puts us through the things he puts us through because of our ability to have patience. Women often endure a variety of challenges and hardships that require immense emotional resilience. This strength enables us to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and fortitude. Additionally, we have a high pain threshold, not just physically but emotionally as well. This capacity for enduring pain and remaining patient through trials is a testament to our inner strength and resilience. Whether it’s dealing with personal struggles,

supporting loved ones, or facing societal pressures, women consistently demonstrate a remarkable ability to persevere. This emotional strength is a fundamental aspect of who we are and how we manage to overcome the obstacles life throws our way.

How do you weigh critical and commercial success since you’ve dabbled in both?

I think both have their own place. Speaking of Vicky Kaushal today, he’s a big commercial star, but he started with a film like Masaan, which was

My biggest heartbreak? I don’t think it has to do with love. My biggest heartbreak sometimes is to see a forest being cut down or a democracy dying

Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar

an independent film that won all these awards at Cannes. It depends. When you get critical praise for a character, it’s very different because you’ve established yourself as a good actor. But commercial success is also important because if you don’t have that, then people don’t think you’re viable commercially. I don’t think I would have been here if Gangs of Wasseypur was not a commercial success along with being a critical success.

When you look back at your journey so far—more than the milestones—which was your lowest phase that you are grateful for today?

I think my lowest phase was when I was replaced for a film at pretty much the last minute. It made me

Ali’s always been my biggest cheerleader in the fan club. We both know that. He’s also boastful whenever he sees me performing on screen or achieving something great on stage. It’s good to have a partner who can be your champion

realise that there are lots of very duplicitous people in the film industry, and if you are one of them, especially if you’re an outsider, then you have to watch out for yourself and, you know, not have blind faith or blind trust in people. And this happened to me after I won a Filmfare Award for Best Actress Critics’ for Gangs of Wasseypur. So I think I’m grateful for that lesson, and I can safely say today that what happened to me at that point has made me evolve and grow tremendously as an actor.

How excited are you for your new role as a mother? I’m incredibly excited about my new role as a mother. Right now, I don’t have any fears because it’s still early, and I haven’t had time to develop any anxieties. I’m filled with happiness at the thought of bringing a new life into this world with my partner. This is a joyous and significant phase for us, and I’m embracing it with a lot of enthusiasm and anticipation. While I know challenges may come later, at this moment, I’m focused on the excitement and joy that this new chapter brings.

Will you take the route taken by most Bollywood couples with their kids and not expose them to the media in the first few years?

I don’t know the exact right time for someone to become a parent, as it varies for each individual. I believe that people make the decision to become parents based on their own circumstances and readiness. When it comes to raising a child, our focus will always be on what is best for them. We will strive to do whatever is necessary to ensure their well-being and development, tailoring our approach to what we believe works best for them. n

with Ali Fazal

NOT OUT

MANOJ BAJPAYEE TALKS ABOUT COMPLETING A CENTURY AT THE MOVIES, FAMILY LIFE, SOCIAL MEDIA AND MORE IN A CANDID CHAT WITH VEDANSHI PATHAK.

100

ON A BREEZY, RAINY AFTERNOON,

I step into the corridor of a five-star hotel, eager to meet Manoj Bajpayee, an actor renowned for his talent. I look forward to a relaxed, flowing conversation. As the lift doors open, I spot him from a distance, exuding a calm aura that instantly puts everyone in the room at ease. Dressed in crisp white pants and an off-white jacket, he takes a sip of his chai and gives me a warm smile. I’m instantly at ease. Then he insists that we break for lunch. Work can wait. Lunch done, we get into the interview mode. Our conversation touches many topics. We talk about how his definition of success has evolved over the years, the importance of family life—and his dreams. He reflects on what he would tell his younger self about navigating a career in showbiz, sharing insights that are both inspiring and grounded. Excerpts from a freewheeling conversation.

You’ve completed a hundred films, how do you weigh success today?

My criteria remains the same. I measure success by my own standards, not by public praise. I critically evaluate my performances and films, identifying where they fall short, regardless of their acclaim or success. This rigorous selfassessment has been a part of my process since my theatre days. I strive to grow, improve and evolve. I believe this drive is evident in my work.

Today, what makes you feel that you’re successful? Is it the luxuries that come with being an actor?

I’ve never been attached to luxury or money. My remuneration is determined by the market, not by me. True success, for me, is achieving the goals I set out to accomplish. While others might find success in material wealth,

like owning multiple properties, I find it in perfecting my craft. The one luxury I cherish is a month-long family vacation each year. I pray that it remains a part of my life always.

When you sign on for a film, do you foresee that it would go on to achieve laurels?

When choosing a project, it’s impossible to predict whether it will win accolades. However, you can assess whether it has the potential to be a great film if executed well. If every department gives their best effort, the film can indeed turn out well. For instance, Gulmohar is a beautiful film that has given me a lot of satisfaction. The performances, including my own, are something I cherish.The film has received international acclaim, awards and attention at major festivals. On the other hand, Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai seems to have

I MEASURE

SUCCESS BY

MY

OWN STANDARDS,

NOT

BY PUBLIC PRAISE. I CRITICALLY EVALUATE MY PERFORMANCES AND FILMS, IDENTIFYING WHERE THEY FALL SHORT, REGARDLESS OF THEIR ACCLAIM OR SUCCESS. THIS RIGOROUS SELFASSESSMENT HAS BEEN A PART OF MY PROCESS SINCE MY THEATRE DAYS

struck a unique chord with audiences. My 13-year-old daughter watched it four times during her vacation, which is a testament to its impact. Even the renowned director Shekhar Kapur, after a private screening, mentioned that my performance in Banda would be discussed and analysed for years to come. His words, along with the positive feedback from my daughter and other viewers, suggest that this film has a special quality that resonates with people, which is a rare and remarkable achievement.

Like in Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai, have you ever fought and won against someone influential?

In the past, I was more impulsive when I lived in Delhi or Bihar. But as I grew older and started

Joram

Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai

a family, I became more cautious. However, Banda’s character is quite different. He begins as a timid, nervous individual who struggles to stand up to powerful people. Throughout the film, he gradually finds inner strength. Initially terrified whether it’s being chased, fearing for his life, or worrying about his family’s safety. Banda experiences significant personal growth. By the climax, his journey to discover and harness his inner strength becomes evident.

Do you pick your projects based on instinct or is it more calculative?

When considering a film, if I find the script significant, mesmerising, and unique, and the role intriguing. I take three to four days to reflect on it. If the script continues to resonate with me

after that period, I decide to take the project on.

WITH THE DECLINE IN THEATRE ATTENDANCE AND THE SHIFT AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL FILM RELEASES, THERE’S CONCERN. I HOPE FOR A RESURGENCE IN THEATRE-GOING PUBLIC. AT THE SAME TIME, OTT HAS PAVED THE WAY FOR DECENTRALISATION OF POWER AND HAS CREATED MORE OPPORTUNITIES

Several actors have said that makers today are hesitant as they don’t know what’ll work at the box-office. Do you think there is a scarcity of content? There isn’t a scarcity of stories. But the landscape has shifted. Previously, successful filmmakers came from specific backgrounds and portrayed an aspirational India.

Now the mood has changed. So our stories need to reflect the current reality, which is less aspirational and more uncertain. Globally, the film industry is struggling with similar issues, including in Hollywood, where there’s uncertainty about what audiences want. Anurag Kashyap’s observation about South Indian filmmakers—who come from small

Gulmohar

TOP PERFORMANCES BY MANOJ BAJPAYEE

WHEN CHOOSING A PROJECT, IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO PREDICT WHETHER IT WILL WIN ACCOLADES. HOWEVER, YOU CAN ASSESS WHETHER IT HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BE A GREAT FILM IF EXECUTED WELL. IF EVERY DEPARTMENT GIVES THEIR BEST

EFFORT, THE FILM CAN INDEED TURN OUT VERY WELL

towns and deeply understand their culture—highlights a valuable approach. They draw from local mythology and traditions, and their stories resonate well. Urban filmmakers, who previously catered to aspirational audiences, now face a challenge. The current audience, largely from small towns and villages, seeks stories that reflect their own lives and cultures. To connect with this audience, filmmakers should consider incorporating elements from local culture and traditions into their narratives, rather than solely relying on urban perspectives.

With OTT shifting gears, do you think box-office will ever get its charm back?

As a cinema actor, I’ve always been hopeful and adapting to the evolving industry has been part of the journey. I come from a time before telephones. Writing letters to my father... I’ve adjusted to rapid changes in the world.

Now, with the decline in theatre attendance and the shift away from traditional film releases, there’s concern. I hope for a resurgence in theatregoing public. At the same time, OTT has paved the way for decentralisation of power and has created more opportunities. So that’s also good, right? While many films haven’t performed well recently, some have succeeded organically, which gives me hope. I’m optimistic that change is on the horizon and that the industry will rebound soon.

How do you weigh a successful project on OTT?

Success should be defined by quality, not merely by box office numbers. It’s not our job to focus on financial figures; the true measure lies in the quality of the work. Many films may perform well financially but are far from exceptional. I often find myself

disappointed when a film, despite its commercial success, fails to meet creative standards. The numbers might reflect financial gain for producers and distributors, but they don’t necessarily represent the value of the actor’s creative contribution. We should focus on the quality of work and not just let ourselves be blinded by the numbers.

In today’s time, there’s a lot of pressure on actors to stay relevant on social media, how do you deal with it? Social media is a way of life now. But it also depends how much you want to rely upon it. I’m strict with myself as to how much I should use it, how much I should depend on it. If you go to any social media account of mine, you’ll mostly see posts related to my films. And you’ll see some family pictures, it’s only on the insistence of my PR. Otherwise, I try to keep even that aspect of my life to myself. We’ve been to the U.S. We’ve clicked many photographs. But you will not see

those photographs on social media because this time we decided to keep it to ourselves. There’s too much of giving away your personal life on social media and it also somewhere encourages the social media audience to come more into your personal life, which we as a family decided not to do.

If you had to say two things to Manoj Bajpayee who is just starting his career, what would you say? Looking back, I’d advise patience. Success may come later than for others. But it will come. While some achieve early success in their twenties, I experienced my first taste of it in my thirties, with ups and downs along the way. My journey has been a rollercoaster, but I’ve learned to handle setbacks and criticism. Having seen it all in waves, nothing surprises me anymore.

If you had to pick a title of your film for your own biopic, what would it be? Ziddi. 

SATYA PINJAR ALIGARH

AKS SHOOL ZUBEIDAA

KAUN GALI GULEIYAN

GANGS OF WASSEYPUR

FEARLESS WARRIOR

ABHAY VERMA IS FLUSH WITH THE SUCCESS OF MUNJYA AND IS RARING TO GO. SRIJANI ROY CHOWDHURY RECORDS HIS EXUBERANCE

Abhay Verma has recently gained significant attention for his role as Bittu in the hit horrorcomedy Munjya, which has marked a major milestone in his career. Munjya’s success at the box office, particularly its entry into the 100-crore club despite a modest budget, underlines Abhay’s versatility.

Abhay’s career path has been shaped by a series of deliberate choices, including his decision to take on the challenging role in Safed instead of opting for a safer project like The Archies. Abhay explains, “Yes, it is partly true that I couldn’t do The Archies because of Safed. Safed was unique. I never imagined I’d be cast as a transgender. It was a surprise, but I’m

proud of the choice because it allowed me to represent a marginalised community and advocate for change through my role.”

He quipped about being shocked to be cross-dressing in the beginning, but Abhay got accustomed to it soon. His choice exemplifies his fearless approach to acting, driven by a philosophy that embraces risk and challenges. “I’ve never aimed to play it safe. My name, ‘Abhay’, means ‘fearless’. That’s a principle I live by,” he asserts. Despite setbacks, such as missing out on a leading role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi, Abhay’s optimism is unwavering. “I was devastated when it didn’t work out,” he admits, reflecting on his admiration for Bhansali’s work. “Sanjay sir was a major reason I

SANJAY SIR (SANJAY LEELA BHANSALI) WAS A MAJOR REASON I CAME TO MUMBAI. WATCHING RAM LEELA PROFOUNDLY CHANGED MY PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE

came to Mumbai.

Watching Ram Leela profoundly changed my perspective on life.” Nevertheless, Abhay remains hopeful, stating, “I’ve always been an optimist. I truly believe something bigger and better is on the horizon.”

The success of Munjya has been a significant turning point for Abhay, showcasing his versatility and solidifying his standing in the industry. He describes his journey as “failing successfully,” recognising that while many opportunities didn’t materialise, the eventual successes were well worth the struggle. “Many opportunities didn’t pan out but I can proudly say that what did happen was for the best,” he explains. Abhay’s core philosophy of being true to oneself remains central to his approach. “Everything

I’ve achieved has come from being true to myself. The key is not to pretend to be someone else,” he says, highlighting his commitment to authenticity in his work.

Looking ahead, Abhay is enthusiastic about future projects, though he remains discreet about details. He expresses admiration for industry icons like Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone. When asked him about the rumours surrounding Shah Rukh Khan starrer King, Abhay does not confirm or deny them. Probing further, he says that he has always admired Shah Rukh Khan and would be privileged to share screen space with him. Intriguingly, he credits legendary singers such as Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle and Mohammad Rafi as having influenced in his acting journey. “I might sound odd but I’ve learnt a lot about acting from

Munjya

YES, IT IS PARTLY TRUE THAT I COULDN’T DO THE ARCHIES BECAUSE OF SAFED. SAFED WAS UNIQUE. I NEVER IMAGINED I’D BE CAST AS A TRANSGENDER

their emotional performances in the songs they rendered,” he notes.

Abhay’s journey is supported by a strong network of family and friends, who continue to provide encouragement and pride in his accomplishments. “My family and friends are incredibly proud. Bunny, a close friend, still can’t

believe seeing me on screen,” he smiles.

As Abhay Verma continues to evolve as an actor, his focus remains on creating impactful performances and embracing new challenges. “Even though I have the luxury of choice now, I concentrate on how to create magic with each character,” he points out. His dedication to his craft ensures that he remains a compelling and evolving talent in the industry.

AooraCONNECTING Hearts

GLOBAL ARTISTE AOORA TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT HIS LOVE FOR ALL THINGS INDIAN, MAKING WAVES IN REGIONAL MUSIC AND WANTING TO BRING INDIAN AND KOREAN CULTURES CLOSER THROUGH MUSIC AND ARTS

THE WORLD MAY BE GOING CRAZY FOR ALL THINGS KOREAN, BUT K-POP SENSATION

AOORA HAS LOST HIS HEART TO INDIA! THE DYNAMIC POP-STAR WHO WON HEARTS WITH HIS CHARISMATIC PRESENCE ON BIGG BOSS (EVEN TEACHING SALMAN KHAN THE LOVE SIGNSARANGEYO) HAS BEEN MAKING HIS PRESENCE FELT ON THE CHARTS TOO AND HIS UNIQUE MUSICAL RENDITIONS HAVE BEEN MAKING WAVES IN REGIONAL MUSIC INDUSTRIES FROM SOUTH TO ASSAMESE AND EVEN PUNJABI! MOST RECENTLY, HE ALSO BECAME THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL ARTIST TO PERFORM IN GARO, PNAR, AND KHASI LANGUAGES. THE MULTIFACETED ENTERTAINER FURTHER SHOWCASED HIS VERSATILITY BEYOND MUSIC AND EVEN MADE HIS DEBUT ON THE OTT WITH AN INDO-KOREAN SERIES EARLIER THIS YEAR. AND AS AOORA CONTINUES TO CAPTIVATE AUDIENCES AND PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF HIS CREATIVE EXPRESSION, WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE GLOBAL ARTISTE IN DUBAI, WHERE HE HAD THE CROWDS DANCING TO HIS RENDITIONS OF HIT BOLLYWOOD NUMBERS, SOUTH SONGS AND PUNJABI TRACKS. ALL HEARTS, AOORA IS PURE ENTERTAINMENT ON SCREEN, ON STAGE AND EVEN OFF IT AS WE SETTLE IN FOR A CANDID CHAT. HIS ADORABLE HINDI, BOLLYWOOD DIALOGUES, IMITATION OF ACTORS AND SONGS IN FLAWLESS MALAYALAM, PUNJABI AND ASSAMESE HAVE US IN AWE, WHILE HIS CHILD-LIKE ENTHUSIASM, CURIOSITY AND INNOCENCE HAS OUR HEARTS. AND IT’S ALL THINGS DESI AND NONSTOP FUN AS WE GET CHATTING WITH THIS SINGERENTERTAINER WHO COMES WITH NO FILTERS!

What drew you to Bollywood?

It was love at first ‘song’ for me! I watched Tiger Shroff and Shraddha Kapoor’s song ‘Cham Cham’ (Baaghi, 2016) during the corona phase, that’s sometime in 2020 and I just fell in love with Indian movies, the romance, the larger-than-life action, the heroes, heroines, the love stories… I loved it all and that drew me to watch more and eventually I started learning the songs, the language, that I’m still doing. But the more I watched the more I just fell in love with not just Indian movies, but also Indian culture. Indian culture is so rich and vibrant and then

when I visited here, the people were all so warm, loving and accepting. The very first time I came here, it still felt like I had come home. I think my soul belongs to India.

You have been very vocal about your love for Indian culture and also have adapted to the lifestyle locally too… Yes, I did make many changes in my lifestyle and the more I am in India, the more I want to learn about it. Whether, it is adapting to local languages or traditions or even clothes, I love trying it all and it just feels like an organic universal plan for me to be here!

How was it being on Bigg Boss and meeting Salman Khan? The first time it was very emotional, and being without a phone, was scary also. But this was a dream come true. Meeting Salman Khan, it was the best day… I think he’s a beautiful and humble man, a very great soul. He welcomed me so warmly, and being such a big star, a superstar to be so nice was very nice experience. It teaches you that no matter how high you reach, you should never stop being humble. And I met others too, they all were very nice and I made some good friends.

Who are your favourite actors here?

Salman Khan, because he’s a very cool and respectable guy. I want to follow in his footsteps. I like

the way his heart is so kind and generous. His movies are so entertaining, his expressions are all so good. He’s a good man and actor. I respect him a lot. And among actresses, Deepika Padukone! She’s very beautiful. I respect her as an actress.

INDIAN CULTURE IS SO RICH AND VIBRANT AND THEN WHEN I VISITED HERE, THE PEOPLE WERE ALL SO WARM, LOVING AND ACCEPTING. THE VERY FIRST TIME I CAME HERE, IT STILL FELT LIKE I HAD COME HOME. I THINK MY SOUL BELONGS TO INDIA.

“ “

You have constantly been working on your Indian languages, especially Hindi… Balle Balle…! Yes, it all started with first learning English, and Hindi and I’m still learning. Mujhe khaana de do! And I know a lot of other words, some I found out were the wrong words to learn (laughs), but now I know them. I am good at learning new languages, so I have learnt my songs in Malayalam and Assamese too.

Your rendition of the popular folk song from Kerala and its music video have become quite a hit… I had a lot of fun doing the video. But I enjoyed learning and singing the song even more. Malayalam is a beautiful language and I want to learn even more.

What’s the plan here, Hindi films, concerts? I want to do it all! I love performing and entertaining on stage

through my songs and dance, I also enjoy acting. And yes, Hindi films I would love to do, but also Punjabi films!

But what do you most enjoy?

Entertaining people. In concerts, it’s easy to connect with the crowds and to see their energies is exciting and encouraging. So, I enjoy interacting with crowds and also enjoy learning.

You recently made your OTT debut with the IndoKorean series Landed in Korea… Yes, and I want to do a lot more projects where we can bring together Korea and India and show their cultures, collaborate more. I want to do something more connecting Korea with India through acting, through music and entertainment. But more than just that I also want to introduce both cultures to each other, I want to do a project bringing together Korean and Indian culture.

“ “

...MUJHE KHAANA DE DO! AND I KNOW A LOT OF OTHER WORDS, SOME I FOUND OUT WERE THE WRONG WORDS TO LEARN (LAUGHS), BUT NOW I KNOW THEM. I AM GOOD AT LEARNING NEW LANGUAGES, SO I HAVE LEARNT MY SONGS IN MALAYALAM, PUNJABI AND ASSAMESE TOO.

MATTER ART OF THE

AANAND L RAI TALKS ABOUT MAKING SEQUELS AND MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS IN A HEARTY CHAT WITH SUMAN SHARMA

Aanand L Rai is so soft spoken and mild natured that it’s difficult to envision him as a hard taskmaster waving his whip around on the sets, getting things done through dint of force. Tell him that and he grins and says that sometimes gentle words are enough to move giants. He’s a one of a kind filmmaker, not limiting himself to just one genre but believes in throwing his net wide. And he doesn’t just run after superstars but casts according to the demands of his script. He has ventured into producing Marathi films as well and plans to segue into other regional cinemas soon. He always speaks from the heart and doesn’t hold back as I ask:

What prompted you to make a sequel to Haseen Dillruba?

A sequel is often warranted when the characters have evolved beyond the scope of the original story.

After Haseen Dillruba, I felt that while the story had reached a natural conclusion, the characters had grown in ways that warranted further exploration. The audience responded with immense love for the sequel, Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba reinforcing this decision. In Haseen Dillruba, I was particularly fascinated by how an arranged marriage could transform into a love story. Both Rani and Rishu were so committed to their relationship that they were willing to go to any lengths to be together. This complexity and depth in their characters made me believe that there was more to explore.

Why did you choose Taapsee Pannu to play the title role?

Both Manmarziyaan and Haseen Dillruba feature very demanding characters that push the boundaries of traditional roles. Taapsee Pannu was an ideal choice for these roles because she fully immerses herself in her characters without judgement. Her willingness to embrace complex roles opens up a wide range of opportunities for her. It’s crucial for actors to allow the character to come to life through them, rather than imposing their own judgments. Taapsee’s approach, where she completely owns her characters, exemplifies this philosophy and contributes to her success in such challenging roles.

What sets Vikrant Massey apart from other actors?

Vikrant is an intelligent

and creative individual. Every creative actor or director has a certain self-interest when it comes to their work, but it’s essential that they also aspire to more than just becoming a star; they need to focus on telling compelling stories. While many actors are talented, only a few possess the conviction, faith and selflessness required to excel in their craft. After the passing of

Irrfan Khan, many stories and roles seem to have remained untold, as filmmakers wondered who could match his intensity and depth. Vikrant has the calibre to fill that void. His dedication and authenticity are evident in his work. Actors like Irrfan Khan and Vikrant engage in such diverse and impactful roles that they prevent the audience from forming a single,

With Shah Rukh Khan in Zero

AFTER HASEEN DILLRUBA, I FELT THAT WHILE THE STORY HAD REACHED A NATURAL CONCLUSION, THE CHARACTERS HAD GROWN IN WAYS THAT WARRANTED FURTHER EXPLORATION. THE AUDIENCE RE SPONDED WITH IMMENSE LOVE FOR THE SEQUEL, PHIR AAYI HASSEEN DILLRUBA REINFORCING THIS DECISION

limiting image of them. By continually taking on varied characters, they constantly redefine their own stardom.

You don’t stick to one genre when it comes to production. Why so?

The films I direct are written by Himanshu Sharma and we typically take two to two and a half years to complete a film. I’ve come to realise that I’m a workaholic. While I’m immersed in one story, I find it beneficial to work on two or three other stories with different directors.I have a deep appreciation for the work of Anurag Kashyap, Ashwini Iyer Tiwari and Kanika Dhillon. I choose stories based on my interest in them rather than their genre. For instance, although horror

or thrillers aren’t usually my preference, I loved Tumbaad. It’s a film with remarkable qualities. In terms of themes, I’m drawn to stories that align with meaningful messages. For example, Newton emphasised the importance of voting. I get involved with a story because I genuinely like it; I’m not focused on making it but on being a part of it. I enjoy exploring different genres, it keeps me engaged and prevents me from getting bored.

Tanu Weds Manu remains close to the audience’s hearts even now. What do you think is the reason for that?

Perhaps it was the honesty of the thennewbie director Aanand L Rai. At that time, I had nothing to lose, so I didn’t

love from various sources, whether through films, the audience, family or friends. That’s why my stories often focus on love.

You’ve made films which mirror the lives of common people and women and you’ve also been involved in superstar vehicles like Zero and Raksha Bandhan, which didn’t do well despite the hype… Perhaps the stories I choose and the worlds I create have a natural requirement for ordinariness, in which these actors fit perfectly. Madhavan, Dhanush or Kangana possess the quality of presenting themselves as ordinary people. When I worked with a big star, I didn’t fully grasp that they are viewed differently by the audience due to their superstar status. Perhaps portraying a star in a story requires a different approach. This is why it is often said that one is always a student of cinema.

fear losing anything. I was fearless and deeply in love with the story. I always fall in love with my characters and my actors because they bring those characters to life. I feel a profound sense of gratitude when they embrace and embody the characters I’ve created.

Probably that’s why your actors stay connected with you… From the moment I entered this profession, I was told that once a film ends, the relationship with the actors also ends. This used to scare me because I worried that if the actors who played my characters distanced themselves from me, everything would feel artificial and I wouldn’t enjoy telling the story anymore. I have been fortunate to receive

Or is it that the superstars interfered in the film so much that the film didn’t turn out the way you envisioned it? That wasn’t the case at all. None of these stars ever threw their weight around or interfered with the script. If there were issues, I accept responsibility for them. You can’t place the success or failure of a film solely on one actor. As a director, it’s my job to manage these aspects.I believe true success comes from accepting failure with a smile and acknowledging your own mistakes.

After the failure of a film, how do you pacify yourself and make a new start?

I don’t get depressed when a film doesn’t succeed because I never let myself get carried away during the filmmaking process. If I didn’t get swept up then, I won’t be brought down. If you let your work affect you too much,it means you’re placing undue importance on yourself. My success lies in the fact that I continue to tell the

stories I want to tell, regardless of whether I earn more or less money.

What is the difference between the audience of Tanu Weds Manu then and today’s audience? There is definitely a shift. For example, Tanu Weds Manu Part 2 came after a four-year gap and Himanshu had to adapt his writing style for it. Success with the first part doesn’t guarantee that the second part will do equally well. Staying relevant to the audience is crucial. If you don’t evolve between successful films, you risk not succeeding with your next one. Each new story reaches a new audience. For instance, Raanjhanaa was released in 2013, and the way the audiences perceived love then will differ from how they view it in 2025. A whole generation changes in a decade, making it challenging to stay in sync with these shifts while telling your story.

confident we’ll have a lot of fun working together on Tere Iskh Mein

What would you like to say about the Gen-Z actors Sara Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor?

Both are very confident. Sara did an excellent job in Atrangi Re with a layered character. What I hope for them is the ability to choose the right stories. Apart from that, both of them are fantastic. My only advice is not to focus solely on the characters they want to play but to choose the right stories they want to be a part of.

What would be your advice to today’s actors?

Before making a film, it’s important to discuss it thoroughly. You should sit with the director and writer. But the real magic happens when you start living and breathing the project on the set. Our job is to help an

Your next film with Dhanush is Tere Ishk Mein. How much has your equation changed with him over the years? Nothing has changed between us. He first came to me as an actor, then became a brother and now he feels like a son. From day one, he has been a fantastic actor. It would have been difficult to make Raanjhanaa without him. I brought him back for Atrangi Re. He has grown both as an actor and as a person. I’m

AFTER THE PASSING OF IRRFAN KHAN, MANY STORIES AND ROLES SEEM TO HAVE REMAINED UNTOLD, AS FILMMAKERS WONDERED WHO COULD MATCH HIS INTENSITY AND DEPTH. VIKRANT (MASSEY) HAS THE CALIBRE TO FILL THAT VOID

actor reach their full potential and extract the best performance from them. If the director falls short in any way, it’s the actor’s duty to fill that gap. Sometimes, an actor can even teach a director a thing or two. This generation needs that kind of collaboration. For example, when I worked with Deepak Dobriyal in Tanu Weds Manu (2010), I learnt four valuable lessons from him through the humour he brought to the character of Puppy. Deepak’s sense of comedy

significantly influenced the film’s uplifted tone. There are times when a director can’t achieve everything on their own, and that’s where the actor’s contribution becomes crucial.

You have been associated with Himanshu and Kanika Dhillon for a long time. How difficult is it to maintain a relationship? It’s important to respect and understand each other’s roles. I deeply admire Himanshu’s writing and have great respect for him as a writer. I believe that collaborating with like-minded individuals

helps in telling a compelling story. I also have a longstanding association with my staff and associates. I make an effort to build strong bonds with everyone I work with.

Tell us about Ansh Duggal and Pragati Srivastava who will be seen in your next rom-com Nakhrewaalii?

Both are fantastic actors. We now need new faces to bring fresh energy to the industry. This generation is bold and unafraid to speak their minds. I enjoyed hearing their perspectives and opinions. They bring a new, refreshing quality to our work.

Aatmapamphlet

Atrangi Re

Rakshabandhan

MEETS WORLD BOY

VEDANG RAINA IS THE HOT YOUNG SENSATION IN TOWN. HE SPILLS THE TEA ON HIS SHOWBIZ ADVENTURES TO JITESH PILLAAI

Vedang Raina made his presence felt playing Reggie in Zoya Akhtar’s adaptation of The Archies. Lately, one also saw him as Alia Bhatt’s younger brother in Vasan Bala’s Jigra. In just a short spell at showbiz, he’s making a mark for himself as a dependable actor. Tell him he reminds you of Ranveer Singh and his smile broadens. He says he wouldn’t mind having the senior actor’s popularity and talent. He’s hugely popular himself, especially among girls. He grins and says he doesn’t mind the attention and hasn’t let it go to his head. He’s also a budding singer and musician and perhaps would make a parallel career as a performer in future. The good-looking actor comes clean on everything from his dream debut, his struggles, singleton status to love sutras in an exclusive chat. Excerpts:

Reggie Mantle or Archie Andrews?

Reggie. It’s closer to my heart. But I have a soft spot for Archie as well. The reason I have a soft spot for him is that I thought he’s this musician who’s aspiring to make it through his music. I was kind of in that same headspace at that time, because I also sing and play the guitar.

Do you have a mean streak like Reggie?

I don’t think so. Though I think other people would know better.

How different are Suhana and Khushi from each other?

Very different. Also their characters were so different. Khushi is a bit more introverted like me, a bit more shy. Suhana is a bit opposite to her. She’s a lot more confident in herself.

You come from a non-film background, so getting a break wouldn’t have been easy.

I was in business school and I was auditioning on the side. I thought if it works out, then great. But I had a backup with my degree. The Archie’s just happened. That was one of those lucky things that just clicked.

What set the ball rolling?

I started auditioning when I was 15-16. After my first audition, I realised it’s something I feel for. And then I just really took to it.

You are also a budding musician?

Music is just one of my passions. I picked up the guitar when I was really young, maybe 10 or 11. And I made it to the school band. I thought that was the coolest thing ever. Then I started doing competitions and performances in school.

I did train a little bit here or there but I’m not a trained musician.

What kind of music do you hear or play?

I’ve had a phase with R&B. I’ve had a phase with jazz.

I WAS IN BUSINESS SCHOOL AND I WAS AUDITIONING ON THE SIDE. I THOUGHT IF IT WORKS OUT, THEN GREAT. BUT I HAD A BACKUP WITH MY DEGREE

I’ve had a phase with Hindustani classical. Retro Hindi music also because my parents played it all the time at home. So, from a young age, I was listening to a lot of Rafi saab and Kishore Kumar.

Were you intimidated in the sense of being lost in a sea of faces?

I felt that way before I met them all. While doing workshops, while filming, I felt like we were a team. We were always helping one another out. It truly felt like that. Even with Zoya

KHUSHI IS A BIT MORE INTROVERTED LIKE ME, A BIT MORE SHY. SUHANA IS A HER. SHE’S A LOT MORE CONFIDENT IN HERSELF

(Akhtar), she was nice to everyone and helpful too. There was no oneupmanship. I think I got really lucky with the set of people I did my first film with.

How has your family reacted to your choice of profession? They keep me grounded no matter what. My biggest achievement to date was probably my 12th boards when I got 97 per cent. I came home and told my parents, “That’s the dream, right? Your kid has got really high marks in his

board exams.” And they were like, “Okay, very nice, well done.” And I was like, “Aren’t you guys freaking out? I got 97 per cent!”

Temperamentally, which parent are you like?

More like my mom. A bit relaxed in approach. Being able to see things rationally. Not letting the temper guide me.

Did you lose out on films to nepo Kids? Did I? Maybe. I wouldn’t say I’ve lost a lot of roles to a lot of people. You win some, you lose some.

When you were doing The Archies, was there a scene where you had an out-of-body experience?

I think that scene with Dilton. There’s something that just sometimes clicks. And then you forget everything else.

Have you been in a situationship like shown in The Archies, where you’re sort of flirting with two girls simultaneously? No, I’m just the opposite of Reggie in every way possible. People always say, you are so confident on screen. But I’m not like that in real life. I only have a small group of friends that I hang out with.

I’ve heard actors get cast

The Archies

on the basis of their Instagram numbers…

This was happening when I was auditioning. At a casting agency, someone asked me how many followers I have. And I was just wondering what that has to do with anything at all. I think you should cast people for their skill and not their social media numbers. It’s not the right way to approach these things.

Do you see social media as a menace?

I don’t think so. I feel like it’s what you want to take from it. Like all things in life, there’s good and bad in everything. Social media is also really helpful in a lot of ways. You’ve got to find a way to take it like that and consume it like that. So I

media. Were you prepared for this kind of a reaction?

I’m grateful for everything. Both good and bad. I feel like I got a lot to learn from it. When people criticise something, you get to understand what they feel about certain things. So I think there’s a lot to take away from everything.

If you had to redo The Archies again, would you do anything differently?

I keep looking back at the work that I do, and I keep finding flaws. I think that’s an endless process. I can’t watch The Archies. I haven’t been able to really watch it. I only watched a bit of it at the premiere.

Were you cringing, or were you happy?

I’VE LEARNT SO MUCH FROM HER (ALIA BHATT) BECAUSE I WAS JUST SO IN AWE OF HOW SHE WAS APPROACHING THINGS AND WITH SO MUCH CONVICTION

don’t think it’s a menace.

What are your heartbreak moments as an actor?

Initially when I started auditioning, it was extremely demotivating because you’re constantly getting rejected. That was my heartbreak as an actor. And I’m sure that there’ll be a lot more in the future as well.

The Archies came with a lot of hype. But it got trolled massively on social

many situations to say no. But wherever there has been a situation, I think I’ve handled it quite nicely. Female attention has definitely been more since the film released, also because, there were more eyes on me than ever before.

Do you feel somewhere it sort of hedges you that you can’t live your life 100 per cent after gaining popularity?

It’s not like I can’t go out anymore. I’ve always believed in keeping relationships under wraps. Because there’s a lot of unnecessary attention for something that’s a private matter.

What are your relationship do’s and don’ts?

Don’t check your partner’s phone. If you’re in a relationship, you need to be able to feel secure in it and have trust in your partner. If there’s no trust, it’s never going to work out. You can’t be a person who’s not nice to people around you. I think that’s primary. You need to be giving, caring and loving in your relationship and outside also.

scene with her and why she is where she is. It was a dream working with Vasan sir and Alia. To be able to do my first film with Zoya Akhtar and my second film with Vasan Bala... It’s been a great experience. And I’m super grateful for it.

What’s the stark difference you see between Zoya and Vasan?

With Vasan sir, it was like I’ve been put into the deep end. I came to the set the first day, and my first scene was with Alia. And Vasan sir very casually comes up to me and says, “Forget that. Forget the script.” And I realised that, oh, it’s going to go like this. Everything in the scene kept changing as we were shooting. You can’t come rigid to Vasan sir’s set. He believes in going with the flow. So that really changed my approach. In contrast, Zoya knows exactly what she wants. She knows her shots, her edits. I’m glad I got to experience two different schools of ideas.

What would you tell an 18-year-old Vedant? Don’t worry. Things will work out. Genuinely keep doing your best.

I can never see an audition or a scene of mine and go, okay, that was great. I don’t think that’s ever happened. I don’t know if it happens with every actor. But I can’t look at my work and really love it.

How comfortable are you with female attention? Or male attention?

I don’t approach a lot of people. I don’t think it’s in my nature. And when it comes to people approaching me, I haven’t been in too

How old were you when you first dated? 16 or 17. So at that time, I was like, “Oh, my boards are coming and this is so stressful for me.” And now I realise those things weren’t as big of a deal as I made it in my head.

Is there any takeaway when you did your scenes with Alia Bhatt in Jigra? We have two opposite approaches when it comes to acting. I’ve learnt so much from her because I was just so in awe of how she was approaching things and with so much conviction. The first scene we had together, was on the first day of my shoot. I realised what she is when I did that

Have you done anything in a relationship that might come across as a red flag?

This is a habit I got from my parents. They were always anxious about me. And whenever I used to leave my house, they used to keep calling and messaging me. And I used to get irritated. And I realised that I was doing the same thing in a relationship. I guess that’s a red flag. I feel like you shouldn’t pry too much.

If you had to date a Bollywood character slash actor, who would you pick? We’ve all loved Medha Shankr from 12th Fail. And her character was just so lovable. If I had to choose one, it would be her.

Jigra

WHEN I FIRST JOINED THE PROJECT, I HAD NO IDEA I WAS PLAYING SAURON. SINCE THEN, MY JOURNEY WITH THIS CHARACTER HAS CHANGED IMMENSELY. OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS, I’VE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO EMBODY THIS ROLE, WHICH IS SOMETHING I’VE NEVER EXPERIENCED BEFORE

ENTER THE

VILLAIN

Australian hottie Charlie Vickers has become an international sensation, thanks to his interpretation of Sauron from The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power series. Tanzim Pardiwalla notes down his charm as well as modesty

Charlie Vickers is a trained actor from Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, London but all his training couldn’t save him from feeling gobsmacked as he reflects on the lasting impact of portraying one of Middle-Earth’s most complex characters. In 2020, the good-looking Australian actor stepped into the role of the enigmatic Halbrand in The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power, set in the Second Age of Middle-Earth. At that time, he had no inkling that his character would evolve into Sauron, one of the greatest villains in fantasy literature. While Sauron is represented as a giant eye in JRR Tolkien’s books and in the Peter Jackson movies, Vickers’ smouldering looks earned him the nickname “Sexy Sauron,” a label he finds both amusing and flattering. As he returns for the second season of the show, directed by J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, the actor has adopted a new look to embody the rising Dark Lord. In an engaging chat, the actor gleefully shared his thoughts on returning to Middle-earth, his rising popularity and the journey ahead.

HAVE YOU COME TO TERMS WITH THE FACT THAT YOU’RE PLAYING THE MOST ICONIC CHARACTER IN PERHAPS THE MOST LAVISHLY MOUNTED SHOW IN THE WORLD?

Sometimes I’m just washing the dishes at home and it hits me. It’s unnerving, unbelievable and one of the most humbling experiences of my life. You are right, I’ve yet to fully come to terms with it. I’m most grateful for the love and appreciation coming my way. And I’m ever so glad that people have taken to The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power in such a big way.

WHEN YOU FIRST JOINED THE PROJECT, YOU WEREN’T AWARE YOU’D BE PLAYING SAURON?

TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY SINCE THEN

When I first joined the project, I had no idea I was playing Sauron. Since then, my journey with this character has changed immensely. Over the past five years, I’ve had the opportunity to embody this role, which is something I’ve never experienced before. Even when I’m not actively working on the show—whether I’m off doing other projects or just chilling with my friends—these characters remain with me. Initially, I felt a bit lost during the early episodes of Season one because I didn’t fully understand my character. I had a sense that Halbrand was more complex

than he appeared, but as actors, we interpret the circumstances we’re given. At that point, I lacked the full context, which made it challenging. Now with a clearer understanding of the entire narrative and where it’s heading, I feel much more in command of the material. My comfort with the

line numerous times. On the day of filming, I was emerging from a flaming furnace, so we couldn’t use the audio from that moment. I ended up going into a booth to record about 20 or 30 different variations of “Lord of the Rings.” I was eager to see which one they chose. It’s interesting to note that

character and the weight of playing Sauron has grown significantly since I started.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT FANS CALLING YOU SEXY SAURON? (Laughs) I’m not really sure how to respond.

I guess it’s one of those things where people will say whatever they want, whether it’s positive or negative. But hey, it definitely feels cool. We just focus on telling the story. The fact that fans are engaging with the show in any way is super exciting. I mean, “Sexy Sauron”? That’s a new term for me, and it’s got a nice ring to it. But let’s not forget about all the other incredibly attractive characters in the series. Honestly, I love the creativity fans bring to the table. The memes, the fan art, the passionate debates about who’s the hottest character... it all adds to the fun.

YOU’RE THE FIRST CHARACTER TO SAY “THE LORD OF THE RINGS” IN THE SERIES. WHAT WAS THAT EXPERIENCE LIKE?

It was quite amusing, actually. I had to say that

When you know what the show is and where it’s headed, it makes everything flow more seamlessly. I remember the first season being a whirlwind of new experiences but this time I could dive in with confidence and clarity. The camaraderie with the cast and crew was palpable and it made for a really positive atmosphere.

HALBRAND/SAURON STARTS OFF QUITE DARK AND THEN TRANSFORMS INTO THE FAIR FORM OF ANNATAR. WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO DEVELOP THIS NEW LOOK?

for an actor. Any dark energy I brought to the character was probably subconscious, it just came naturally.

YOUR CHARACTER HAS A FASCINATING DYNAMIC WITH GALADRIEL. CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT WORKING ON THAT WITH MORFYDD CLARK?

when Sauron says that line, he’s twisting it back to Celebrimbor, implying he’s the Lord of the Rings, but we all know who the true Lord of the Rings really is.

WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE OF RETURNING TO THE SETS FOR THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER SEASON 2?

It was a different experience this time around. Having the knowledge from the first season really made a difference for me. I knew what to expect, which definitely helped ease any nerves. The scale of the production is just breathtaking— the elaborate sets, the intricate costumes—it’s like walking into a different world. One of the biggest factors that contributed to the smoothness of the process was the chains of communication within the production team. Everyone was on the same page, which is so crucial in a project of this magnitude.

We aimed to create a design grounded in Tolkien’s lore, specifically how Annatar is described as Sauron in a fair form. However, Tolkien provides very few details about his appearance. So, we focused on finding a substantial reason for his look, drawing inspiration from his connection with Celebrimbor. We considered what would command the respect of the greatest elven smiths and how a being of such wisdom, experience and power would appear. It was a privilege to work on this project, especially with the talented artists in costume and makeup. It required a lot of hard work and collaboration across different departments to bring this vision to life.

YOU’RE ALSO LEANING INTO THE CHARACTER’S SINISTER SIDE… (Laughs) Maybe it’s just me, but I think that intensity is what makes me unstoppable in board games. I can’t really carry that mindset with me outside of them, though. This season, Charles Edwards and I worked with some challenging material and dark themes but we had to approach it with a lightness. Otherwise, it could easily become overwhelming. I really enjoyed playing the villain; these roles are always so much fun

At the end of Season one, we leave them at a pivotal moment where she has essentially rejected his proposal, not a marriage proposal, but something close. He definitely feels a bit scorned by that. While there’s an undeniable chemistry that viewers can see, I think they view it differently; it’s more of a cosmic connection, something greater than themselves. As the series continues, their fates will always be intertwined, regardless of whether they are physically together. This connection serves as a throughline throughout the show. Galadriel embodies all that is good, while my character represents evil and these opposing forces will constantly clash. It’s interesting that they also share a personal relationship. When she asserts, “I know the Dark Lord, I know his mind,” it gives us insight into their shared history and the depth of their connection.

WERE YOU TEMPTED TO TAKE ANYTHING FROM THE SET?

(Laughs) The prosthetics department has this 3D scanner, and one day while I was sitting on set, they decided to test it out with a new handheld device that looks like a gun. I was in the green room when they scanned me. A couple of weeks later, I received a package containing a small bust of myself as Sauron. It was pretty confronting to see a bust of myself dressed as such an iconic character. Now, it just sits in the top cupboard facing the wall because I prefer not to look at it. I might auction it off or something—probably get about five bucks for it. n

The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 2

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