Filmfare-ME-February-2023

EDITORIAL TEAM

EDITOR

Aakanksha Naval-Shetye aakanksha.naval@starzmediainc.com

Senior Executive-Digital Marketing

Deepali Tanna deepali.tanna@starzmediainc.com

Graphic Designer

Amit Panchal amit.panchal@aldanube.com

Arabic Content Writer & Translator Hanan Yehia Mulazem hanan.yehia@starzmediainc.com

BUSINESS MANAGER - EVENTS

Mayur Panchal mayur.panchal@starzmediainc.com

Magazine Co-ordinator

Ali Karrar ali.karrar@starzmediainc.com

FILMFARE (INDIA)

Chief Executive Officer

D eepak Lamba

Chief Community Officer & Editor

Jitesh Pillaai

Executive Editor

Anuradha Choudhary

Brand Solutions Director

Jyoti Verma

PUBLISHED BY:

Starz Media Inc

P.O BOX: 18022

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Celebrating Love!

What an eventful month January was! The UAE in the past month has been witness to some of the biggest international events and concerts across and our social calendar has been packed with back-to-back soirees. From Beyoncé setting the stage ablaze with her phenomenal act as she performed on stage after four years - headlining the Grand Reveal of Dubai’s Atlantis, The Royal - to the musical maestro Hans Zimmer regaling fans at a LIVE concert which was as much a visual spectacle as it was a musical extravaganza. King of hearts, Shah Rukh Khan wowed Dubai with his Pathaan moves as the film’s actionpacked trailer was launched at the Burj Khalifa, and Bollywood also scored big with sold-out-concerts by Arijit Singh, Rekha Bhardwaj, Harshdeep Kaur, Prateek Kuhad. Internationally - Sting, Imagine Dragons and BlackPink were the big draws in Abu Dhabi.

B-Town and the Indian film industry has been equally abuzz with celebrations! A proud moment for Indian cinema as RRR’s ‘Naatu Naatu’ scored a Golden Globe win of Best Original Song for MM Keeravani. We must say, Ram Charan, NTR Jr and SS Rajamouli, along with the award-winning music composer made impressive debuts at the prestigious awards event and were quite the toast there, flooring international media with their charm and confidence. Pathaan meanwhile has been breaking records at the box-office globally with its ample mass-whistle moments including a power-packed cameo by Salman Khan as his character Tiger from YRF’s aspirational spy universe!

And now as we step into February, the month that celebrates love, what better way to bring it in than seeing Bollywood sweethearts – Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani – tie the knot in a fairytale wedding. Don’t we all love such happy endings or happy beginnings. Congrats to the beautiful couple as they embark on their journey of love together as man and wife!

Celebrating Love, we have on the cover the endearing and the delightfully winsome young star Shehnaaz Gill, who’s waiting in the wings for Bollywood stardom! Serious about her passion for acting, ahead of her Bollywood debut in Salman’s Eid treat Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Shehnaaz tells me that the she wants to be recognized and celebrated as a talented actress and not just known for her popularity on social media. Although it’s easy to see why she wins hearts so easily! Packing in sass, she says it all straight from the heart mincing no words when it comes to talking about love and letting the heart rule the head either!

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Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd

Copyright 2023 Starz Media Inc

All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors within.

And we couldn’t agree more when she says that love is to be celebrated in all its forms! We have over the past years especially, seen how fragile life truly can be… So, while Valentine’s Day may just be a day to acknowledge that love, why not make the most of it! As a couple, or a single, show your loved ones how much they mean to you… take them out, make it fancy or keep it simple, or just pamper them silly at home and make that special one feel loved a bit more! But most of all don’t forget to show some love to the one that matters the most and deserves it all too – you. So here’s to celebrating LOVE and to celebrating YOU!

Wishing all of you a Happy Valentine's Day!

CHECK OUT THE BEST VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS FOR HIM AND HER

MAKE THE BEST IMPRESSION ON YOUR FIRST DATE

YOUNG STAR SHEHNAAZ GILL TALKS TO AAKANKSHA

NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT HER BIG BOLLYWOOD DEBUT AND WANTING TO PROVE HER METTLE AS AN ACTOR

SUPERSTAR HRITHIK ROSHAN GETS CANDID WITH AAKANKSHA

NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT HIS JOURNEY IN BOLLYWOOD AND THE LESSONS LEARNT

RAKUL PREET SINGH IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE AS SHE TALKS ABOUT EXPLORING DIFFERENT GENRES ON SCREEN

KAJOL GETS CANDID ABOUT MOTHERHOOD, CAREER AND MORE

ALIA BHATT TALKS TO JITESH PILLAAI ABOUT HER SUCCESSFUL DEBUT AS A PRODUCER WITH DARLINGS

MAKEUP: @LILROCKET

HAIR: @CHEEMABALJIT2

STYLING : @IAMKENFERNS

TEAM SHEHNAAZ : @KAUSHAL_J | @MEGHA1801 LOCATION : @DABBOORATNANISTUDIO

CELEBRATING OPULENCE WITH VIEWZ BY DANUBE

THE LAUNCH OF DANUBE SPORTS WORLD WAS ALL THE BUZZ

PHOTOGRAPHY : DABBOO RATNANI ASSISTED BY: MANISHA D RATNANI

RRR BAGS A GOLDEN GLOBE WIN!

It was a proud moment for India as RRR bagged a Golden Globe. It was time to ‘Nacho Nacho’ not just for Team RRR, but all of India rejoiced, as the film’s song ‘Naatu Naatu’ brought home a Golden Globe. Composed by MM Keeravani, it won an award for the Best Original Song. Besides Keeravani and S.S. Rajamouli, also present at the prestigious international awards event were the film’s lead superstars Ram Charan and NTR Jr. Now we have fingers crossed for RRR charming their way to the Oscars too. Interestingly, India is being represented in as many as four different categories of awards including two documentaries and a nominated film that co-stars Jacqueline Fernandez.

SRK MAGIC TAKES ON DUBAI!

Dubai got a taste of the Pathaan flavor ahead of the film’s craze setting the Box Office on fire globally! It was a treat as Shah Rukh Khan unveiled the Pathaan trailer on the Burj Khalifa, and even did the signature hook step of the movie’s chartbuster title track. Also seen with SRK was his good friend, Saeed Al Janahi – Director, Operations Dubai Film and TV Commission. SRK’s magic now continues in theatres as the film is currently on a record-breaking spree world-wide having collected over Rs 800 crores in a mere 10 day run and counting!

BOLLYWOOD LEGEND AMITABH BACHCHAN MEETS FOOTBALL SUPERSTARS!

Amitabh Bachchan was the guest of honour at the star studded match between Cristiano Ronaldo’s Riyadh Season Team and Lionel Messi’s PSG (Paris saint-German). And while fans were thrilled to witness the football superstars – Ronaldo and Messi with Kylian Mbappe and Neymar Jr - in action at the King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, they were equally excited to see the Bollywood legend, as he came on field and shook hands with both the teams and interacted with them briefly ahead of the match. The senior star tweeted: “An evening in Riyadh .. What an evening .. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Mbape, Neymar all playing together .. and yours truly invited guest to inaugurate the game .. PSG vs Riyadh Seasons .. Incredible !!!”

Aakanksha Naval-Shetye checks out all that was buzzing in the Middle East

All eyes were on Beyoncé as she headlined the Grand Reveal of Dubai’s Atlantis The Royal. The music diva performed her first live concert in more than four years at this private event and the spectacle was not one to be missed. We enjoyed every bit of that fiery performance as the pop queen dazzled the guests! Among the 1,500 guests present at the starstudded grand opening celebrations included Kendall Jenner, Jay-Z, Suhana and Gauri Khan, and a host of other socialites and royals.

MUSICAL TREATS LIKE NEVER BEFORE!

Two-time Oscar winnermusic composer Hans Zimmer performed LIVE at Dubai’s Coca Cola Arena and gave Dubai an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, Imagine Dragons, Sting and BlackPink took over Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi over a weekend of musical treats.

There was music for all, as Indian talents too wowed Dubai. There was Arijit Singh, Prateek Kuhad, Rekha Bhardwaj and Harshdeep Kaur winning hearts with their soulful music and songs!

expert advice

DR. SANA SAJAN

Medical Center

BIOTIN FOR HAIR

DOES BIOTIN PREVENT HAIR LOSS?

Using biotin for hair has been common since many years due to its benefits and qualities; it is a type of B vitamin commonly used in cosmetic treatments to treat problems such as dermatitis, or weak nails and hair.

IS BIOTIN GOOD FOR HAIR GROWTH?

Biotin, also known as B7 vitamin (and formerly H vitamin), is a soluble vitamin linked to carbohydrates, fats, amino acids and purines metabolism, and that also favours blood circulation and hair growth; therefore, biotin will not just allow us to have a healthy and well nourished scalp: it will also provide strength and elasticity to our hair, making it shiny, too.

SO, WHERE CAN WE FIND IT?

Basically in foods of animal origin such as meat, fish or egg yolk; but also in vegetable products such as mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, whole grains, seeds, nuts ... If for any reason we cannot intake any of these foods, or we do not eat enough quantity, there is also the option of taking biotin tablets for hair. These biotin supplements for hair are usually sold in capsules and include other additives for hair, such as collagen or hyaluronic acid; however, due to the proliferation of this type of pills and supplements we must warn you about the risks of consuming them without the supervision of a specialist.

IS IT OK TO PUT BIOTIN IN YOUR HAIR ?

In general terms, using biotin for hair is safe in aesthetic treatments if administered in the recommended dose and under medical supervision.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

Nausea (especially during the first stages), stomach problems and diarrhoea, allergic reactions (including swelling of the face and throat, rashes on the body, etc) appearance of acne on the lower part of face and increased risk of abortion in pregnant women. Bear in mind that just as an excess of biotin intake has its side effects, a deficiency of biotin also has consequences for our body - rashes, hallucinations, depression... - and, as scientific studies have shown, it also causes a weakening of hair, affecting hair growth and pigmentation.

Besides, in certain patients it may be advisable - always under medical supervision - to consume optimum dosage of biotin, since it may provide other benefits for them such as:

Condition improvement in people suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS)

Reduction of nerve pain in people with diabetes

Reduction of blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes (if combined with chromium)

Decrease in muscle cramps caused by dialysis

Shortening of altered mental status and motor control problems episodes in patients with basal ganglia dysfunction (if combined with thiamine)

Winning Hear ts! Shehnaaz Gill

FEARLESS, SANS FILTERS AND BRUTALLY HONEST WITH AN OVERLOAD OF ALL THINGS CUTE AND TOPPED WITH OODLES OF SASS – THAT’S SHEHNAAZ GILL IN A CANDID CHAT WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE – TALKING ABOUT HER BIG BOLLYWOOD DEBUT AND ALL THINGS HEART!

The first time I met Shehnaaz Gill, I was a bit taken aback with her simplicity. Having starred in over 100 music videos, several Punjabi films and ultimately becoming the nation’s sweetheart with Bigg Boss, I expected her to be starry, et al. Instead, she literally reminds you of the simplest joys of life… think rainbow, sunflowers… a bright spark that had me smiling! Yes, she can be a diva when she wants (Bollywood doesn’t spare anyone like that), but make no mistakes there, this desi kudi is all heart even under that starry exterior. And as we settle for our exclusive interview, it’s easy to see why she’s the perfect choice to be on our cover of the month that celebrates Love. There’s a wisdom that belies in her banter about being an emotional person, a strength that you can see she’s culminated from her journey, and an understanding of an emotion that’s pure and unadulterated like her! But most of all, it’s about watching her make her big Bollywood debut in Salman Khan’s Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. Interestingly, Shehnaaz tells me that more than the excitement of making a debut, there’s a focused desire of wanting to do more work, showcase all her ranges as an actor and even explore playback singing! Excerpts

THE TEASER OF YOUR BOLLYWOOD DEBUT KISI KA BHAI KISI KI JAAN IS OUT. HOW EXCITED ARE YOU?

I want to work so much and this is just the beginning. I feel that if I get excited now, I won’t be able to focus on my work. So, excitement is there, but it’s more to do with doing more and more work.

YOU ARE ALREADY A WELL-KNOWN NAME, SO DO YOU FEEL THAT KIND OF PRESSURE ON YOU,

BECAUSE YOU HAVE A HUGE FAN FOLLOWING WHO WANT TO SEE HOW IT GOES?

I think I’m being offered movies now because I have a big fan base. As an artiste I just feel that I have to work very hard and I’m doing it too. There’s a lot I want to do. I feel that today makers are taking me because I come with a huge fan base, but I want to prove and show them that I am not just about my fan base, but I’m talented too. I want to be recognised as a ‘good artiste’, a good actor, a good performer… I want

people to appreciate me as an artiste. I know there’s time for that but I’m working towards it.

BUT YOU HAVE DONE SO MANY MUSIC VIDEOS TOO AND YOUR FANS CAN SEE THAT SINCERITY AND THE HARD WORK IN THEM! See, hard work is a must for everything. Music videos or any other project, but when it comes to movies, there is another level of perseverance. It is not a cakewalk. All these big stars

prepare themselves so much before doing a movie – there are workshops and everything. So, there is a lot of hard work and effort that goes in. I also want to do those kinds of workshops, I want to understand the characters, get under their skin, understand the vision of the film, the totality, and totally be the character before I face the cameras. I know my fans are excited, but I want that my performance should be appreciated by them. I want to put out work that would make them say, ‘Wow! Is this Shehnaaz? We’ve never seen Shehnaaz like this. Oh, she can do this too.’ So I want to win their appreciation for my art and performance.

WHAT IS SHEHNAAZ GILL REALLY LIKE?

Honestly, I don’t know that myself yet. Because I feel I still have a lot to explore about myself. And I am getting to know myself every day. I feel that I have a lot of talent, and I want to polish that aspect and shine through my work. I want my work to talk. I know there’s so much I can do, and I am just waiting to bring it all to the table. And every day, I want to know more about myself and learn through my art. I would only get to know who Shehnaaz Gill is when I give good performances, when I see myself in the movies and can say ‘oh, I can do this too’. So I’ll get to know myself through the work I can put out in cinema. You know push the boundaries and surprise myself too. I know I have it in me, I just want to find it and showcase it!

WITH YOU ENTERING BOLLYWOOD, I’M SURE THERE’S NO DEARTH OF ADVICE THAT YOU ARE GETTING. SO, WHAT IS THE ADVICE THAT YOU FOLLOW AND WHAT’S THE ADVICE THAT YOU DON’T?

That is true. People give a lot of advise, but I follow the ones that I think will help me and ignore the rest. So, I listen to everyone for sure, but I only do what I please.

DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE AN ACTOR? HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY BEGIN?

I always wanted to face the camera. So even as a child when there was no one at home, I used to close my room, switch on music and I used to stand in front of the mirror and deliver dialogues, sing, dance! So I’ve always loved myself and would always think when would I get to face the camera, show my talent to the people, like you know show them what I can do. So, I always had this urge to sing, act and just wanted to do everything. But I never knew what exactly to do. So that I only got to know slowly and gradually as we moved forward and actually started doing things. So now I know that I want to act and also do playback singing.

YOU’VE DONE PUNJABI FILMS, MUSIC VIDEOS, TELEVISION. WOULD THEY TAKE A BACKSEAT AFTER YOUR BOLLYWOOD DEBUT?

I just want to keep doing what I love. So, it doesn’t have to be only in Bollywood. I want to work in the Punjabi industry, south industry as long as it suits me, and I love the work. So, if I like a music video, I’ll do it too. I’ll do anything and everything that touches my heart.

SO WHAT ARE THE KIND OF ROLES THAT ARE CLOSE TO YOUR HEART, WHAT KIND OF CHARACTERS ARE

YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO PLAYING?

I want to do a lot of women-oriented roles. It’s already such a male-oriented world, I want to shift the paradigm to make it more women-oriented. So, if I get a chance, I will not leave any opportunity to promote and take forward the cause of the women or girl child. Girls should progress more.

If I had my way, I would want the boys to ask girls to protect them. They would hold a girl’s hand to feel safe. So, I really want

Iamverystrong.Iamemotional,butIamstrong.I experienceeverykindofemotion.ButwhateveremotionI possess,Iwanttoexpressthatthroughmyacting.Iwant topourmyemotionsinmyworkandacting.

opportunities where I can bring this change, turn around things in favour of women.

YOU HAVE ALSO GONE THROUGH A LOT OF STRUGGLES IN YOUR LIFE, SEEN THE UPS AND DOWNS. WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR STRENGTH FROM?

It’s hard to say where I get the strength from. I think whenever such a situation arises, God gives me the strength. I know that I will make my own way. I know how to carve my own path. Because I know whatever comes my way, I am strong enough to handle that. It may take time, but I don’t like to get sympathy. So, I know that if there is a tough situation, it’s not for long. There’s a lot ahead of me. I am also the first one to empathise with people if I see them in a difficult situation. But I also know how to get through the problems in my life on my own. God will be there to help me find my way through it.

YOUR FANS FIND IT VERY EASY TO CONNECT WITH YOU. WHAT’S THE SECRET THERE? No secret, that’s the secret! I don’t have any filters. Sometimes I feel bad about it too. But I say whatever is there on my mind because I feel that is the truth. So whatever I feel, I say it out loud. And I think that’s the reason people connect. And people should be like that and there are many like me – with no filters! But there are people who have filters on all the time, they think something and say and do something else! But I am not shy or scared of speaking out. If I like or don’t like something, I say it upfront.

BUT IN THIS INDUSTRY, THAT CAN GET YOU IN TROUBLE. ALSO PEOPLE GET MISINTERPRETED, SO WOULD YOU TONE DOWN THAT ASPECT OF YOU?

I don’t think even then I will lie. But I will try to speak more responsibly and with awareness. I might become more conscious about not saying anything that might hurt anyone. Because not everyone is like you, ki mazak kar bhi le, aur mazak le bhi le. If anyone says anything to me, I can

laugh it off easily, but I realise not everyone is like that. People get offended easily. So yes, I’ll try and take care of that but apart from this I don’t think I’ll change anything about myself. I don’t want to have a starry attitude. I just want to keep working, keep discovering myself as an actor and keep earning appreciation from people who truly recognise a talent in me. So, I want to keep this in my life always because I have seen a lot and I have gone through a lot.

This superstardom is momentary and when it’s their low point, it becomes difficult. So, good, bad, high, low… I always want to be ready for whatever might come my way saying that you’re the Shehnaaz Gill and you’ve seen and gone through a lot in the past and I want to take that with me, always!

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR SHOW DESI VIBES WITH SHEHNAAZ GILL.

This show is uncut. It’s like having a conversation at home, so there are no edits, we just keep rolling. There’s no script as such that I try to follow. I want it to be more organic and natural rather than scripted. So I just go with the flow and make sure that the guest is feeling comfortable. Check their vibe and reflect accordingly.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING YOU?

I don’t know if I’m praising myself. It doesn’t feel right. But what people say, what my loved ones say is that Shehnaaz as a human - that I am very nice. Like they say that if I see anyone in trouble, I’ll be the first one to reach out, even if that would harm me. I empathise and can take a bullet for others!

HOW HAS YOUR EQUATION WITH SALMAN KHAN CHANGED FROM BIGG BOSS TO NOW BEING A COSTAR? HOW IMPORTANT IS HE AS A PERSON IN YOUR LIFE?

He’s a good human-being. He gives chance to new and upcoming artists and that’s a very good thing. So he gives that initial start to an artiste and then it’s up to the person. But that start is important. So I’m glad that I started my career with Salman Sir. Main isse zyada kya hi bol sakti hu, isse badi koi baat nahi hai

WHAT IS THAT ONE THING THAT YOU WANT TO IMBIBE FROM SALMAN’S LIFE?

Learn every day. Keep learning. He told me that if you want to do good then keep learning. Work hard. Learning is important. Keep growing. Don’t get stuck on one thing.

WHAT ARE YOUR UPCOMING PROJECTS, APART FROM THIS FILM?

I have a lot of projects coming up. Nikkhil Advani’s film has already been announced. Rest all announcements will also happen in due time.

Idon’thaveanyfilters.SometimesI feelbadaboutittoo.ButIsay whateveristhereonmymind because I feel that is the truth. So whateverIfeel,Isayitoutloud.And Ithinkthat’sthereasonpeople connect!

take with Shehnaaz Qui

One thing you can’t live without? Work.

Key to your heart?

Apersonshouldbecaring,askaboutme,showinterestinme,mywork.Givemehappysurprises, givemetime!

Favorite food?

Keepschangingaspermymood.Currentlyit’sSushi.

What’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve had to make as an actor?

Diet.

Your go-to person!

Myfriends.There’snoonespecific,justmyfriendcircle.

Favourite songs / singers!

CamillaCabello’s‘Señorita’,CharliePuth’s‘WeDon’tTalkAnymore’andSelenaGomezismyall-time favouriteandIlikeallhersongs.

Actress whom you consider your role model?

Sridevi.She’salegend.

Favourite movie?

Lamhe

Favourite hero whom you had a crush on?

Nooneanymore.

AT WHAT POINT WOULD YOU CALL YOURSELF SUCCESSFUL?

I will never call myself successful, because I want to work hard and give in my best till my last breath. I want to keep learning, keep, evolving, keep growing and keep bettering myself. I will stop trying to work hard the day I call myself successful and I don’t want that to happen ever. I never want to depend on anyone. Even if I become successful, I will never call myself successful. Let people say that! I just want to keep working till my end. Maybe after I’m dead. Jab main upar chali jaungi tab main upar se dekhungi aur bolungi haan ab maine success achieve kar li. From there I’ll see how successful I was and how much I had achieved. To vo main marne ke baad bolungi ki I’m successful.

ARE YOU MORE OF A HEART PERSON OR A HEAD PERSON? HOW IMPORTANT IS LOVE FOR YOU?

I’m definitely a heart person! I feel love is everything. You can love anyone or anything, but the feeling is different with each. Whether it’s your mother, brother, boyfriend, husband, everyone has a different place in the heart, but it is a feeling in all its purity. If that feeling you have for someone is pure, then its love. If a relationship has purity, trust, loyalty, then its love!

HOW ROMANTIC ARE YOU AS A PERSON. THERE’S MUCH WE KNOW AND ASSUMED THROUGH WHAT WE HAVE SEEN, BUT WE WANT TO HEAR IT FROM YOU?

I am a caring person. When I’m in love, I give my 100 per cent. Apne se zyada karti hu. I give more importance to that person than I give to myself. Right now, I’m free, and I’m happy that I’m giving time to myself and my friends and family. There’s a lot of time. Baaki koi bhi life mein aayega, to usko bhi time dungi.

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON VALENTINE’S DAY? Valentine’s Day for me… Well it’s like a signal that people should live with love. That the love and care we show on that one day should continue forever. So, Valentine’s Day is just a signal for spreading as much love as possible and not just for one day, but every day.

THE YOUNG GENERATION LOOKS UP TO YOU. WHAT’S YOUR MESSAGE FOR THEM?

My message to my young fans is that focus on your studies. Pay attention to me too, but in your free time! Focus on yourself more than anything else. I also give myself that importance! So prioritise yourself, focus on education, on your growth, career. See my work too, but don’t lose focus and get distracted (laughs).

EvenifIbecomesuccessful,Iwillnevercallmyselfsuccessful.Letpeoplesaythat!Ijustwant tokeepworkingtillmyend.MaybeafterI’mdead.Jabmainuparchalijaungitabmainuparse dekhungiaurbolungihaanabmainesuccessachievekarli.FromthereI’llseehowsuccessfulI wasandhowmuchIhadachieved.TovomainmarnekebaadbolungikiI’msuccessful.

Making the cut

Scissor scissor on the wall!

According to fashion e-commerce aggregators, the search for “black cut-out dress” has increased by 89 percent in the last year. The reason for such a steep curve is obvious: Alexa Demie’s skin-tight dress as Maddy in the season two premiere of the award-winning Euphoria. Maddy’s slinky black mini dress features a cleavage-baring keyhole neck cut out, as well as a cut-out back that extends to the sides of the midriff. Cut-out dresses, it turns out, have been slipping back into fashion over the last few seasons. They’re officially back now. A variation on the naked dress trend, these dresses feature strategically placed cut-outs to add a bit of spice to an otherwise conventional silhouette, ranging from sensual to full-blown risqué. There are traditional oval and circle-shaped keyhole cutouts, as well as more raunchy versions with holes up the side of the dress. There are more mature cutouts with clean-cut minimal lines and unique details like waist tie-ups and chains. Basically, you can wear this trend in any way you want, making cutouts one of the top choices for the ladies of B-town this season.

Cut-out dresses, it turns out, have been slipping back into fashion over the last few seasons. They’re of cially back now

ANUSHKA SHARMA KIARA ADVANI

DEEPIKA PADUKONE

SHILPA SHETTY KUNDRA

JANHVI KAPOOR

SARA ALI KHAN

Purple Passion

Purple is the new black!

A beautiful blend of vivid blue and purple strokes that signify joy and the feeling of hope, Bollywood divas hopped onto the bandwagon of sporting an array of glamorous looks in the hues of royal purple.

PRIYANKA CHOPRA

KRITI SANON

ALIA BHATT

DEEPIKA PADUKONE

KIARA ADVANI

Pavit Gujral Necklace

Bath & Body Works

-Daisy

PANDORA

Fyne Jewellery

Liht Organics FOREO

MOSCHINO

Titan Edge

bvlgari

Print Souq

hotel chocolat

LUSH Valentine Bombshell

Swiss Arabian blooming box

Manolo Blahnik

Gifts For Him

Compiled by Amit Panchal

SMEG

hidrate

Fred

rado

CHANEL

FLIKR Square Personal Concrete Fireplace

Courant Wireless Charging Tray

Eleven Eleven sneaker candle

Wooden Flask Autumn Woods

Hibernate Cozy slippers

Marshall Emberton Bluetooth Portable Speaker

YETI

BEVEL SHAVING KIT

Dsquared2

Dress to IMPRESS

Did you know it only takes 7 seconds to make a great first impression! Deepali Tanna shares tips for the perfect first date appearance so you can win over your date in no time.

day look

A halter neck crop top and a relaxed fit trouser are excellent choices for a day-time date. To make your overall look vibrant and energetic, add a color-pop accent, such as in your handbag.

night look

A leather bralette top and wine coloured leather pants along with a third layer make for a perfect night time outfit that is both stylish and chic. You can finish the look with gold and silver accent hoops, heels and a classy handbag.

Opt for a monochrome t-shirt and chinos and add an interesting half-sleeves shirt that reflects your personality. Funky sneakers and a watch along with a bracelet complete the outfit for a casual yet stylish look.

night look

day look

Keeping it minimal and classic, opt for a coloured polo t-shirt with black denims and layer It with a formal or a leather jacket. Finish the look with a watch and smart boot. You’re ready to slay!

Sweethearts!Bollywood

Bollywood’s much-loved couple Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani have finally tied the knot and put an end to all the speculation surrounding the ‘when’ of their relationship. They join the newly-wed brigade of B-Town that had Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor to Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha; Vikrant Massey and Sheetal Thakur to more recent Athiya Shetty and KL Rahul. And as most of them gear up to celebrate their first Valentine’s Day as married couples, here’s taking a look at some of the B-Town jodis that fans are hoping will get hitched soon too...

Rakul Preet Singh - Jackky Bhagnani

Rakul and Jackky certainly make for a perfect love story and we do hope to see the two tie the knot too!

Malaika Arora - Arjun Kapoor

They have been one of the most loved and popular couples of B-Town. They never fail to give the ultimate love vibes and we can’t wait to see when they plan to get hitched.

This charming pair makes our hearts flutter and we wish to see their happily forever start soon.

Karan Kundrra - Tejasswi Prakash

From candid fun reels to their adorable banter, everything Karan and Tejasswi do is lapped up by their fans who can’t seem to get enough of this adorable couple. TejRan are the definition of a perfect match and we hope to see them at the altar saying their ‘I Dos’

Pulkit Samrat - Kriti Kharbanda

Compiled by Anushree Khandelwal

MOMENT!

Hrithik Roshan MAN OF THE

HRITHIK ROSHAN REVEALS WHY HE DOESN’T CRAVE TO BE A PERFECTIONIST IN THIS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE

HRITHIK ROSHAN – THE NAME IS SYNONYMOUS WITH CLASS, PERFECTION, STUNNING GREEK GOD LOOKS AND A DEDICATED, SINCERE APPROACH TO HIS PASSION FOR ACTING! AND WHILE AS AN ACTOR HE’S BEEN CONSISTENT WITH ALL OF THE ABOVE RIGHT FROM HIS DEBUT MORE THAN TWO DECADES AGO, HE HAS ONLY HONED HIS ART AND CRAFT FURTHER… EVOLVING PROFESSIONALLY AND ON THE PERSONAL FRONT TOO. HAVING PROVEN HIS ACTING METTLE TIME AND AGAIN, HE MOST RECENTLY WOWED US ALL YET AGAIN WITH HIS STUPENDOUS, POWER-PACKED PERFORMANCE IN VIKRAM VEDHA. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE SUPERSTAR IN DUBAI WHEN HE HAD SPECIALLY FLOWN IN FOR THE EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH AND UNVEILING OF RADO’S NEW CAPTAIN COOK HIGH-TECH CERAMIC HRITHIK ROSHAN SPECIAL EDITION IN TWO KEY BOUTIQUE LOCATIONS. HAVING BEEN A BRAND AMBASSADOR OF THE RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL BRAND FOR CLOSE TO 12 YEARS NOW, THIS WATCH IS SPECIAL, BUT EQUALLY SPECIAL IS HIS VISIT TO DUBAI, A CITY THAT HE ABSOLUTELY LOVES, HE TELLS ME IN AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW. AND AS WE CHAT ABOUT HIS JOURNEY IN BOLLYWOOD, THE STAR REVEALS WHERE HE DRAWS HIS STRENGTH FROM AND ALSO SHARES HIS BIGGEST MOTIVATION. PART WITTY, PART FUNNY, BUT ALWAYS CHARMING, IT’S HRITHIK AT HIS CANDID BEST! EXCERPTS

How’s it coming to Dubai?

It’s always amazing. It’s a great city.

You are always known to be such a perfectionist…

No, not at all. It’s a little bit of a story though. I’m not that much of a perfectionist. I’m alright! I think I have evolved beyond it and understood that trying to be perfect is not very healthy, it’s not required. It’s good to have the wrongs and imperfections and let go. I tested that with Vedha and it worked.

So your ‘not chasing perfection’ is not to be confused with you giving your 120 percent?

I think part of giving that 120 percent is to let go of control. So that’s the bigger challenge, you control, control, control… and then you realise okay that’s getting me only this far, how do I grow beyond this now and you let go of that control and see the creation that

happens after that, which is the practice now.

After a certain time, you find your own groove, find that space where Fridays don’t matter as much and its more about you doing the kind of work you want to put out there? I hope to get there (laughs)!

Hope to get there? You are there already and rocking it, now you’re only creating a legacy! I hope so. Only a few things deserve that perfection, like Rado. That can be perfect! As humans, as human beings, we have to accept the flaws, be broken and that’s the beauty. Products can be perfect, like Rado is.

Are you very brand conscious? Tell us about your association with Rado, you’ve been the brand ambassador for close to 12 years now… Well… it’s a responsibility. It’s something that I don’t take lightly at all. I need to like what I endorse. I need to love what I endorse. I need to love the

philosophy behind it, what it stands for. Which is why with Rado, it’s a no brainer for me. I’ve been inspired by Rado ever since I was a kid because my father used to wear Rado. And it looked so amazing on his wrist. I hoped to grow up and have a wrist like that with a watch like that. I didn’t get the wrist, but I did get the watch (laughs).

What does brand Hrithik Roshan mean globally for you?

I have no idea; I don’t think about that! That’s kind of something that I don’t live in that space –thinking what am I as a brand, what is my brand!

So what does having a Hrithik on a wrist mean?

For me it’s Rado on my wrist and Rado has a little bit of me in it. Which is the collaboration that I am proud of. Which makes me happy. Which makes me feel a little strong, I feel a strength in that.

MY STRENGTH COMES FROM LIFE. THE UNCERTAINTY OF IT. AND THE FACT THAT WE REALLY DON’T KNOW WHAT WE’RE DOING. ALL THAT FEAR AND UNCERTAINTY INSPIRES ME TO DO MY BEST IN SEARCH OF THE ANSWERS.

Where do you draw your strength from?

My strength comes from life. The uncertainty of it. And the fact that we really don’t know what we’re doing. All that fear and uncertainty inspires me to do my best in search of the answers.

Hrithik Roshan… and fear?

Fear is a good driver. It’s a good motivator.

How do you look back at your journey in Bollywood?

It has been amazing.

More than two decades now!

I have taken whatever was given to me and given my best to it and I have been given a lot of love and it’s taught me a lot of gratitude. And I don’t take things for granted. It’s taught me how to be humble. It’s taken me to the peaks and it’s shown me what ego is like as well. So, I have seen a lot of things and I’m grateful to all the people who’ve showered me with so much love and keep me inspired.

You know, so many adjectives come to mind when you say Hrithik. You’re one of the best-looking actors globally, you’re classy, a perfectionist... But how do you describe yourself?

I’m pretty boring like that. I’m a student. That’s that. That’s what I would say.

When you look back at your journey, what is the one thing that you would say has kind of got you here and is a lesson that you’ve imbibed for life? My curiosity. I think I’m a curious person. I’m very curious. You know, when someone says hard work is equal to success, be curious. Like, oh really? I’m going to try. My curiosity makes everything into a game. And I then enjoy, I have fun with it. So no matter how hard it gets, no matter how hard the struggle is, the curiosity turns it into a game. Like okay difficulty is here now, let’s be curious. If I do this at this stage, what’ll happen and I learn. So, I’m very curious to learn. I have a wonder for things which I think has given me and motivated me and got me here.

MY CURIOSITY MAKES EVERYTHING INTO A GAME. AND I THEN ENJOY, I HAVE FUN WITH IT. SO NO MATTER HOW HARD IT GETS, NO MATTER HOW HARD THE STRUGGLE IS, THE CURIOSITY TURNS IT INTO A GAME.”

STILL HANDSOME, STILL HUNGRY...

With a filmography of roughly 250 films from across industries, it’s safe to say that Jackie Shroff has done his fair share of experimentation. Between playing an anti-hero in his launch vehicle Hero (1983), a gangster with a conscience in Parinda (1989), a film star in Kaash (1987) and in Rangeela (1995), an IAF officer in Border (1997) and the antagonist in Mission Kashmir (2000), he has made a name for himself as a versatile and dependable actor. The masses rooted for his character in films like Ram Lakhan (1989), Gardish (1993), 1942: A Love Story (1994), Devdas (2002) and many more. Whether it is a leading role or in a supporting one, he’s managed to leave an impact, thanks to his charm and towering screen presence. His impact on Indian cinema (and on pop culture) is evident in all the memes and videos featuring him, something that he takes in his stride. He is appreciated for his role of a benevolent ghost in Atithi Bhuto Bhava, an OTT release as he is for his role as a sorcerer, who captures ghosts in Phone Bhoot. Love is on Jackie Shroff’s mind, among other things as he reflects on onscreen love stories, impact of OTT, new age cinema, fitness and more in an exclusive chat with us. Excerpts:

JACKIE SHROFF STILL KNOWS HOW TO CHARM, FINDS TANZIM PARDIWALLA, AS SHE CHATS WITH THE INDUSTRY’S BHIDU ABOUT HIS JOURNEY AND MORE…

Between the movie references and memes, Jackie Shroff seems to have a separate space in pop culture, how do you think that happened?

They are all my buddies ya. They are beautiful souls. They’ve grown up in a digital world. I come from a world of writing on slates and using dusters. So after experiencing that generation, I feel like a fulcrum between both. I have kids at home and I’ve seen them at all ages - right from when they were little to teenagers to grown-ups. So I know their feelings and I listen to them. I like listening more than talking. And you learn a lot when you listen. I relate to them because I don’t see age. I don’t see the generation gap. I only see the feelings. Feelings remain the same. Everyone feels hunger and pain regardless of age. So Bhidu, pyaar mat chhod. It’s just my love and concern for everyone.

What are your thoughts on the continued rise of the OTT wave and how different is it from a big Bollywood production?

There are a lot of platforms that have come up now. As humans we went from street plays, stage plays to musicals... There is an audience for everything. It kept growing and now we can pick up a smartphone and you have all the

information on it. It’s like the sky has opened up. If you say something here it can be heard there - it’s that quick. I think it’s fantastic for business, for people. I can show my TV series or films to many people and I don’t have to have one shop. It’s all in your hands and I’m happy that streaming has come. Then again, emotions don’t change even when platforms do. So let’s take it as a blessing that after television, OTT has come. There was a time when there were no cinema halls for “good films” as they were referred to. I mean films like Saaransh (1984), Arth (1982), Aakrosh (1980). We used to go to early morning shows to watch them. After that, the blockbusters used to play. There were no cinema halls for those kinds of films. Now on OTT, you have everything. Everyone is getting work and every kind of film is being made. We’re lucky that OTT is there and so much content is coming in.

These days Bollywood fi lms aren’t doing well at the box offi ce. Why do you think that is? Have fi lms lost the emotional connection? Honestly, I have no idea what’s missing because if I knew then I would make those kinds of movies. No one has the formula for this. No one knows for sure how to make a film successful.

It could be a trend that will come and go after a while. Cinema halls are places where you go for a shared viewing experience - you don’t know the 200 people you’re watching the same film with, reacting with. At home when we watch films with our families, there are lots of other distractions but it’s convenient. There’s an audience for that too. You just don’t get the theatre experience at home.

You have this extensive fi lmography but what are the kind of roles you want to do at this point in your career?

I really have no idea. The industry has experimented with me a lot because filmmakers know that I don’t say no to roles. I never thought of differentiating between lead roles and smaller roles. For example, in Devdas, the titular role is played by Shah Rukh Khan. But I had a fantastic role in it as Chunnilal. In Mission

“THERE WAS A TIME WHEN THERE WERE NO CINEMA HALLS FOR “GOOD FILMS” AS THEY WERE REFERRED TO. I MEAN FILMS LIKE SAARANSH (1984), ARTH (1982), AAKROSH (1980). WE USED TO GO TO EARLY MORNING SHOWS TO WATCH THEM”

Kashmir, Sanjay Dutt and Hrithik Roshan were both heroes and I was the bad guy with only seven scenes. So I’ve been experimenting all the time. It never bothered me that if I don’t sing a song

I’m not a hero anymore. I feel like if I’m a part of a film that’s more important. Like the chair you’re sitting on, if you cut one leg the whole thing falls. So you have to be that one leg. That’s the important part. The value that you add is important.

You’ve played a superhero before in Shiva Ka Insaaf (1985). With Indian cinema making strides in the fantasy/superhero genre, would you be open to playing a superhero again if given the chance?

I would love to do it. I hope they cast me. I’m keeping myself fit but they aren’t taking me in a superhero film. It’s a great idea to be a superhero but I think for now I’d rather be a ghost. Ghosts who help people like Bhoot Unkle, a ghost who helps children so that’s like being a superhero for me. I think any character that helps someone with something is a superhero. If you feed a hungry person or console someone you’re a superhero.

 With Tiger Shroff, Krishna Shroff and Ayesha Shroff

“I DON’T SEE THE GENERATION GAP. I ONLY SEE THE FEELINGS. FEELINGS REMAIN THE SAME. EVERYONE FEELS HUNGER AND PAIN REGARDLESS OF AGE. SO BHIDU, PYAAR MAT CHHOD”

With Anil Kapoor

How has the portrayal of love evolved onscreen over the years? Love doesn’t change. There are many ways to express love and that’s the only thing that changes. I was telling someone recently how I’d tell my wife I love you. I’d take a piece of paper, cut it, paint it red, fold it in a heart shape, put mom’s perfume on it, put it in an envelope and give it to her. And now it’s just the press of a button and an emoji goes without any scent. The way you express love has changed but love hasn’t changed. You can’t change your love for your mom or your kids and your friends. Love is something that you carry over for years and years. It’s not something that should crack. They talk about a union of seven years “Saat janmo ka saath”. People wish they are together even for the next birth. Those types of feelings come up. So love is something that is beautiful, I mean it takes time to find real love. Mom’s love is the best kind of love you already have and then you have to go beyond and find your love. You know what I’m saying, pyaar toh haich! The only thing that has changed is how to say I love you.

In Atithi Bhuto Bhava, for instance, Pratik Gandhi’s Shrikant doesn’t know how

to say I love you and my character Makhan Singh knows how to say it.

Ram Lakhan we hear is going for a remake. Whom do you think should reprise your and Anil Kapoor’s role?

I think someone asked me who would be the right choice for Lakhan. But I feel no one can do these characters the way they were done. Anil Kapoor said that Ram Lakhan is something we should do ourselves. (Chuckles) We’re trying to keep fit to do Ram Lakhan.

How much of your fitness journey is influenced by your kids Tiger and Krishna Shroff?

My daughter Krishna is the bigger fitness freak in the family. She does mix martial arts and Tiger definitely has been playing basketball, football,

gymnastics and martial arts. My son always says to keep exercising and go swimming. If I text him a heart emoji he replies “go swimming”, and if I text him a hug emoji he’ll reply saying , “yeah hugs and exercise”. My daughter keeps telling me the right way to work out and how to keep my core tight. I learn a lot from my kids. They’re working on health, talking about fitness and connecting with a whole

generation which I like.

Which actors from the younger lot would you like to work with?

Pratik Gandhi was definitely one of them. I like him a lot. I also like Shraddha Kapoor. She’s such a fantastic actress and a fine singer. Obviously, I would love to co-star with my son Tiger in a film. That’s something I’m dreaming of. I feel even after I go away, at least our film will always be there.

“THE INDUSTRY HAS EXPERIMENTED WITH ME A LOT BECAUSE FILMMAKERS KNOW THAT I DON’T SAY NO TO ROLES. I NEVER THOUGHT OF DIFFERENTIATING BETWEEN LEAD ROLES AND SMALLER ROLES”

Raisingthe stakes!

Rakul Preet Singh

Rakul Preet Singh had as many as 5 releases in 2022 –among the highest for a Bollywood actress – but more than the number of film releases in a year, it is the Bollywood star’s versatility of roles that has been garnering her much praise! In fact, continuing her success run, the actress has kickstarted 2023 on a high note too with her recent release Chhatriwali that’s hit home with movie-lovers. We caught up with the actress closer to the release and as we talked about this film that addresses and explores the ‘tabboo’ subject of sex education, Rakul tells me why it’s a film that needed to be made and also seen. In a candid chat, she also talked about maintaining that fine balance of doing all kinds of cinema and shared her take on all things love.

RAKUL PREET SINGH TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT EXPLORING DIFFERENT GENRES AND VERSATILE CHARACTERS ON SCREEN!

ARE YOU MORE EXCITED OR NERVOUS AHEAD OF YOUR FILM’S RELEASE?

Super-excited! Especially when it’s a film like Chhatriwali, I wouldn’t say nervous, but I was sort of eager to know people’s response. And you know you just hope that they like it.

DOCTOR G, THANK GOD, RUNWAY 34, ATTACK, CUTTPUTLLI… YOU HAD AS MANY AS FIVE RELEASES LAST YEAR (2022) AND YOU HAVE STARTED THIS YEAR ON A VERY EXCITING NOTE ALREADY. SO WHAT’S THE WAY GOING FORWARD FOR YOU AND WHAT’RE THE KIND OF PROJECTS THAT YOU ARE SIGNING?

Well, the aim is still the same - I just want to do good films. It’s not about the count of films that come out in a year that excites me. That also just so happened because there was pandemic before that and everything sort of came together. But having said that, I think my endeavor is to do different kinds of films. I want to do the commercial ones, the naach-gaana, you know the big scale. And I also want to do hardhitting films, and socially-driven films like Chattriwali. So I want to keep experimenting and keep pushing my boundaries and I hope that I can continue doing that.

I want to keep experimenting and keep pushing my boundaries and I hope that I can continue doing that

CHATTRIWALI IS COMPLETELY RESTING ON YOUR SHOULDERS. DOES THAT PUT EXTRA PRESSURE ON YOU?

It’s not really pressure, I think it’s more about responsibility. And that responsibility is generally while you are filming. Because the makers, the team has trusted you with something that’s their vision with their world and then you just have to be responsible to deliver that. But once that’s done, and the film is ready, then I’ve done my bit. Of course there’s always excited energy to see how people respond. But I don’t operate with a sense of pressure.

THE TOPIC OF SEX EDUCATION THAT CHHATRIWALI ADDRESSES IS VERY RELEVANT AND HAS REALLY BEEN A TABOO SUBJECT. HOW WAS IT FOR YOU BACK WHEN YOU WERE TAUGHT ABOUT IT AND HOW HAD YOU DEALT WITH IT THEN?

Oh, we were also kind of awkward, like how the people in the film are shown to be. I think each one of us has been through that phase. I was introduced to sex education in ninth standard in school and I was very shy and awkward like any other kid who wanted to bunk that class. And now when I think about it, I’m like I don’t know why? Because it’s a part of the educational system. It’s a mandate. Then why as a society are we failing to make these

conversations normal. Because it’s nothing different than how you would address any other organ of your body. You know if you read about the circulatory system, respiratory system. Your cardiovascular system and then suddenly when you come to reproductive system, you’re like oohhh! So, somewhere as a society we are failing because it’s as important. It comes under the same umbrella of health; it comes under awareness. Then how can you not be aware of something that’s going on in your body. And that’s what we address in the film.

YOUR FILM DOCTOR G ALSO IN SOME WAY SPOKE ABOUT NORMALIZING THIS CONVERSATION...

I think that’s a different conversation. That was about normalizing basic gynecology. Men don’t even know the process that women go through. But here it’s more about highlighting the need of sex education on a more grass root level. Because when that happens, it automatically leads to more awarenesswhether it’s in your body or as a male in your partner’s body. And I do hope that this film becomes a conversation-stirrer.

IT WAS A DIRECT TO DIGITAL RELEASE ON ZEE5 GLOBAL. DO YOU THINK A FILM LIKE THIS GETS A BETTER REACH THROUGH THE OTT?

I’m very happy that it

Cuttputli

Doctor G

Runway 34

Chhatriwali

I think love is a wider emotion and I think it needs to be celebrated every day, in every form. Whether its parental love, sibling love, love for your pets or your partner, anybody; I think it needs to be celebrated every day

released on Zee5 Global, because for our makers, directors, the actors, the main idea is to reach as many households and that’s how awareness is created. And I truly believe that it’s great that it’s Zee5 Global because globally they have such a great reach, but also enjoy a high reach with Tier 2, Tier 3 cities. And I’m really happy with the response the film has been getting.

WHAT MAKES YOU SAY A YES TO A FILM?

I just look at the script. If the script excites me, whichever platform it is, then I want to do it.

HOW WOULD YOU SAY HAVE YOU EVOLVED AS AN ACTOR?

Learning is a very subconscious process and the more you work, you sort of understand your craft better, you understand what you like to do, also the nuances better. So your grip on your work material is better. But evolving is always an ongoing process. You never know it all. I mean when I look at my initial films, I’m like ‘oh no what am I doing’ and ‘I could’ve done this better’ because you’re always trying to do better. So, it’s a constant process!

YOU ARE IN A VERY SETTLED PHASE PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY TOO. ANY SPECIAL PLANS FOR THIS VALENTINE’S DAY?

Well, I should be surprised if there’s anything. I’m working through February. And I’m not really a person who’s a believer of all these celebratory days once in a year. I think love is a wider emotion and I think it needs to be celebrated every day, in every form. Whether its parental love, sibling love, love for your pets or your partner, anybody; I think it needs to be celebrated every day.

Mom is the word

KAJOL CHATS ABOUT MOTHERHOOD, CAREER AND MORE WITH SUMAN SHARMA

Kajol’s character in her recent film Salaam Venky is inspired by a real life braveheart mother K Sujatha, who lost her son, Kolavennu Venkatesh, to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in 2004. He wished to donate his organs before his death and for that, his mother even filed a petition in the Supreme Court for the right to grant him euthanasia. The film is based on his inspiring tale of living your life to the fullest in the face of true adversity. It took a huge amount of emotional toll on Kajol to do the role. She says it’s one of the most satisfying roles of her life. She talks about working with director Revathi, the bond she shares with her kids and mother, what being a mom has taught her, and how she’s in the best phase of her life both personally and professionally. Excerpts:

You have played a sensitive, doting mother several times; how different is it in Salaam Venky?

I have always played a fictional mother, so it’s always been a character that someone’s written. This was actually a real mother, so I had this added responsibility of meeting the person and knowing that she is someone who is there in real life. And that adds a certain amount of responsibility to your shoulders. Then you can’t take too many cinematic liberties in playing that character. That is the main difference between fictional characters and real people.

We’ve heard that you initially didn’t want to do the film.

Yes, I did. When Revathi told me the script of the film, I just said no because I am careful and sensitive about these things that I don’t want to play. I don’t want to watch movies in which

anything bad happens to my children because I have two. I told her, “I’ll hear it because you are Revathi, and I respect you greatly but I am not going to do this.” But when she narrated the film to me, I loved it. I knew she was a perfect director because only a person who can understand people would be able to narrate this film with the right amount of sensitivity. I have seen her last film, Phir Milenge, with Salman and Shilpa Shetty. I remember watching that film and thinking, “OMG! What a fabulous film she had made.” It was more about the people than the disease.

What sets Revathi apart as a director?

She has a lovely way of seeing everything through a wider lens, putting it together, and being able to see the entire film way

before she actually makes the film. The editing table is where 90 percent of the work is done. Her vision was always clear about what the film was going to look like.

Is it easier to work with a female director?

I would say it is fabulous to work with good directors. The fact that they are females should not matter at all. It is not a matter of gender whether you are a good director or not. So yes, she is a fabulous director. And because she is a woman, we were able to talk a little more and crack a few jokes, which we would not have been able to do if she were a man.

It’s said that no bond in the world compares to that of a mother and child?

I do believe that. The mother-child bond is just like an umbilical cord.

Which never gets cut. If you see Salaam Venky, the mother and son have a lovely scene in it. Venky tells his mother, “You have taken care of me and my whole life. I apologise for putting you through this,” and she turns around and says, “No... are you mad? It’s you who’ve taught me not to just exist but live my life.” I believe children come into our lives to teach us things.

What have you learnt from your kids Yug and Nysa?

I’ve first and foremost learnt patience. One of the biggest things that my son said to me at one point was that you shouldn’t shout at Nysa for telling the truth. And he said this in a very nice way. Hugging and kissing karte hue, meri god mein baithe hue. He said, when you guys ask, “are you okay,” We sometimes lie to you and say we’re

fine. The truth is that sometimes we’re not ok. If Nyas’s telling the truth, then you shouldn’t shout at her for that. I said you taught me a great thing today. So many times we say to children, “You have to go out with us,” and they say, “I don’t want to come,” and we fire them. There are a lot of small things where we take them to task. Both my kids have taught me so much. I thank God for them everyday. I am so grateful to God for bringing them into my life.

How different or similar are you as a mother to your own mother, Tanuja?

I am different from my mother. I am not as brave as her. Throughout her life, she has been extremely brave. I am not as forward thinking as her. The things she taught and discussed with me as a child, and most importantly, what I learnt from watching her, have stayed with me. I hope and pray that I have lived my life in such a way that I have taught my children what to do in what circumstances. All of these things are being done in front of you by your mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother and aunt. They leave a mark. It’s liberating for a girl or a woman in today’s society to know that women of that time could achieve so much without backup. They didn’t have the finances that you have today. If they are able to do it, then I should be able to do the double of what they’ve done.

Vishal Jethwa plays your son in Salaam Venky. How did you two bond? As essentially it’s a two-character story?

He is a lovely, well-raised guy, and he actually has a great relationship with his mother. The first thing that he said to me was, “Main apni maa se itna pyar karta hun ki mujhe pata hai ki, agar aisa kuch hota, to meri maa mujhe kaise sambhalti.” I was really touched by that. So I thought this was perfect casting. We got along very well.

Salaam Venky is an emotional story. Was there a point where you got too emotional because we are seeing so many people battle various health issues?

Yes, the film is extremely emotional. We kept having emotional breakdowns. But like I said, Revathi has a lovely way of handling these things. You feel so confident about her. I never felt uncomfortable or unsafe as an actor. I always felt that I was taken care of in that respect.

What are your thoughts on the types of roles you are receiving, as well as the types of roles available to women today?

I think writing has just gotten better. It’s a great thing that writers feel that they have the freedom to write whatever they want. We just don’t need to be actors or directors. Today an actor can become a director or even an interior designer. The

I have never felt unequal to anyone. I’ve always felt on par, if not slightly higher. I am definitely better and more intelligent than 90 percent of the people around me

With Revathi

Both my kids have taught me so much. I thank God for them everyday. I am so grateful to God for bringing them into my life

whole world is open to us. And I do believe that it is a fantastic time right now, as so many female DOPs are coming in. I like the fact that this was a completely male-dominated industry. We’re getting more female energy, a lot more women are working. It takes a lot to be able to work in a maledominated industry, which was not there earlier. Our industry is probably the only one where we didn’t have as many women but now we have a lot more women, and that is fabulous.

As a woman or as a heroine, have you ever felt unequal to men in

terms of money, roles or anything else?

I have never felt unequal to anyone. I’ve always felt on par, if not slightly higher. I am definitely better and more intelligent than 90 percent of the people around me. (Laughs) I believe that at least.

Do you think, as an actor, it’s important to reinvent yourself with each character you play ? I think you have to reinvent yourself in life as well. You have to learn new things. As we take on new roles in life, we must do the same in film. Whatever you felt in real

life will be reflected on screen. So, if you are enthusiastic about life and are happy and excited, it will show on the screen. The camera is one of man’s few magical inventions capable of capturing what is truly inside. When you see a film, you know whether the person you are watching on screen is a good person, a bad person, or what kind of person he is. Is he real, or is he not real? You get the feel of the person, and now on social media, par toh, it has become a sabun ka ad -- sab kuch dikhta hai.

Is it a requirement of today’s time to be active on social media?

Yes, it’s today’s requirement. But nowadays, social media accounts have become like your resume, where people are immediately aware of what you’re doing, what you’re wearing. I believe that the existence of social influencers today proves that an entirely new profession has come into existence.

In your profession, you always have to look presentable. Do you get irritated about it sometimes?

Yes, it’s necessary to be presentable in front of the paparazzi. But now I don’t take it that seriously. I don’t believe that I should put so much pressure on myself as an actor, because it’s not good for your mental health. We should like ourselves, and how will you like yourself if you only look at yourself critically. You should be able to say, “Ki abhi main bas jaisi bhi lag rahi hoon, waisi hi nikal kar bahar jaungi.” I do that. I am fine with my body, I am fine with how I look.

Were you always like that? What keeps you grounded?

Like I said, I don’t take myself seriously. If you start taking yourself seriously, then you will have to hold yourself to some utopian standard of perfection. If you hold yourself to that standard, you have to live up to that standard every moment of your day. My peace of mind is important. My time for myself is important. That is something I fight for with everyone. I like my solitude. I just like to sit. I just want to read my book, I want to chill with myself. I think that I am funny personally. (Laughs) I make myself laugh regularly. Main apne aap ko hansati rahti hoon.

You always find happiness in the smallest things...

I think happiness is not a feeling; it’s a choice. I choose to be happy every day of my life. It does not depend on the circumstances. I choose to be happy every moment, and it’s not something that I had before. It’s something that I’ve developed over the past five-six years. I thank my mother for that, because she taught me that you have that choice within you. She turns 79 this year and she is amazing. She is happy; she chooses to be happy every day. n

I don’t want to watch movies in which anything bad happens to my children because I have two. I told her, “I’ll hear it because you are Revathi, and I respect you greatly but I am not going to do this”

Salaam Venky

MAD

SHOWBIZ

THE LOVELY AMYRA DASTUR IS ON THE BRINK OF COMPLETING A DECADE IN THE FILM INDUSTRY. SHE SHARES GLIMPSES OF HER CAREER AND COMES CLEAN ABOUT HER ASPIRATIONS TO TANISHA BHATTACHARYA

ABOUT FROM

taking up modelling at a young age to taking up acting, Amyra Dastur says she’s always been guided by the hand of destiny. The actress says she always had a flair for creativity. She’d actively take part in acting workshops since her childhood. She started her journey as a model at the age of 16, which eventually

Sometimes, when a film doesn’t work, that doesn’t mean it’s your fault, your co-star’s fault, or anyone’s fault per se

led to her being featured in numerous advertisements, and then came the call for auditions. She eventually made her debut with Prateik Babbar in Issaq in 2013. She even got a Filmfare nomination for Best Debut Actor (Female) for her performance in

the film. She has had the privilege to bask in the glory of being part of a Jackie Chan film, Kung Fu Yoga (2017), that made her taste international recognition early on in her career. “I got a call from a casting director, and he said that it was an Indo-Chinese film, and Jackie Chan was the lead star. It was going to go for six months, and I’d have to travel to China. They asked me if I would be available. There was no chance of me saying no, of course, as Jackie Chan is my favourite,” she gushes. With an impressive debut and an international project in her kitty, one might be quick to believe she has had a smooth sail in the industry. One might be wrong. Amyra sheds light on how struggles are a part and parcel of the entertainment industry. “I learnt that sometimes, when a film doesn’t work, that doesn’t mean it’s your fault, your co-star’s fault, or anyone’s fault per se. Sometimes the audience doesn’t like it, and that’s okay. We’re still learning.”

The talented actress has made a name for herself down South as well in films like Anegan (2015, Tamil), which was a reincarnation drama where she starred opposite Dhanush and played three characters. Then she made her Telugu debut with Manasuku Nachindi (2018), opposite Sundeep Kishan, where again her acting was appreciated. Speaking about her South foray, she states, “There’s this different ambiance there, and that’s something I enjoy about the South. The pure love that the South audience has for the heroes, for the stories, even for the directors, for the heroines is something else. It’s a different kind of love than what you see over here. It’s pure. It’s difficult to understand and explain and can only be experienced. I’m blessed to have experienced it.”

With the world of OTT being revolutionised with some top-notch content, Amyra has carved out her space on the platform with

some memorable performances in The Trip 2 (2018) and the political thriller Tandav. Speaking of her collaboration with Saif Ali Khan in Tandav, with whom she’d worked earlier in Kaalakaandi, she reminisces, “He’s a charismatic person, great to work with. He was always sweet. There were no starry airs about him, and that was something I liked. He came with these positive vibes.”

Quite recently, she enthralled the audience with her impactful stint in Jogi, which is based on the 1984 Sikh riots. She was paired opposite Diljit Dosanjh in the film. “It was a hard-hitting film about the 1984 Sikh riots and I’m happy I was part of something concrete,” she says. The film was directed by Ali Abbas Zafar. Amayra had worked with him before in Tandav, and there seems to be a bond of trust that they share. Corroborating the same, she mentions, “For the character of Kammo, I was just told to sort of bring my own to the

character. I think after working together on Tandav, Ali sir kind of knew that I could deliver. So he trusted me with Kammo, and I appreciated that. I was a little scared because I was like, this has to be believable. I don’t want to be the film’s weak link.” She’s set her sights on being a pan-Indian star. And her future projects are a reflection of that approach. She says she’s happy doing good work and doesn’t care whether it comes in theatres or on OTT. And she’s ready to work in different languages as well. “I’ve finished shooting for Bombay Meri Jaan, which is inspired by the book Dongri To Dubai, so that’s going to be coming out on OTT, I think, early next year. Apart from that, I’m doing a Punjabi film with Jassie Gill, called Furtila. “I’m also working on a Tamil film called Bagheera with Prabhudeva Sir.”

She sure knows what she’s doing.

Jogi was a hard-hitting film about the 1984 Sikh riots, and I’m happy I was part of something concrete

Jogi

Beyond ordinary the

JITESH PILLAAI INTERVIEWS ALIA BHATT, WHO IS BEAMING IN THE POST MATERNITY GLOW AND IS BASKING IN THE SUCCESS OF DARLINGS, HER FIRST PRODUCTION VENTURE

She finds the space between the words in the dialogue and makes magic.

Is there anything Alia Bhatt can’t do other than fly? She does it on screen. Last year - from her spitfire turn in Gangubai Kathiawadi to Darlings, to Brahmastra, the year’s been nothing short of terrific. She morphs in every scene like a chameleon. How does she do it ? Maybe there is some “source” in the ether from where she channels this changeling persona. In Darlings, she breaks your heart and gives you hope. She’s soft, she’s vulnerable, and she’s hard as nails. Dealing with the not-so-easily discussed topic of domestic abuse, Darlings is dark and funny, and full marks to the director who makes a moving and yet zany caper about those living life on the edge. At the heart of it all is Alia as Badru, ably supported by the sensational Shefali Shah, is there anything he can’t do-Vijay Varma and the dependable Roshan Mathew. With such razorsharp ensemble performances and a movie which made me think about why women go through what they do, I asked Alia Bhatt a few questions.

You turned producer with Darlings, despite the director, Jasmeet K. Reen, being a debutant. Is it your gut feeling which says this is the kind of lm you should produce? Jasmeet co-wrote it with Parveez Shaikh. The fact that she wrote the script and the fact that she wanted to direct it made me believe that she knew this world better than anyone else. I felt if anybody could do justice to the script, it would be her. There was also this gut feeling that she had the understanding and good sense because there was a certain texture and tonality that she had brought to Badru’s world. The script was so unique and surprising. Somebody gave me an opportunity when I was a nobody, and after having been in the industry for so many years, I also want to be able to support new talent. Instinctively, I felt that this would fit just right.

How did such a dark subject grip you? Did you think of sending it to Ranbir Kapoor or Karan Johar?

I never send my scripts to anybody, be it Ranbir or Karan. I always try to make the decision myself. When I wanted to produce Darlings, I took advice from my father, director Abhishek Varman,

and Aman Gill, who is a producer and good friend. They all loved the script, so I asked if I should produce it. They all echoed the same reply: “Yes”. I have done a film like Udta Punjab, which was really dark, including my character. But Darlings tells a story of hope. There’s a positive message at the end. For me, that positive thing in the end matters.

You seem to shine under female directors, whether it’s Zoya Akhtar or Meghna Gulzar or Gauri Shinde. Is it because Jasmeet was a woman that she was able to understand domestic abuse better? What is it that separates female directors from males? If you are telling a story of a woman trying to find her feet in a man’s world, then I feel no one is better than a woman to tell that story. But you never know, a man could also have a very interesting gaze. I don’t think gender has a part to play. It’s your knowledge and understanding of the way people are treated. I can definitely say that there would have been no better person to direct Darlings than Jasmeet because she wrote it and created it. But I can’t say there’s no better person than a woman to understand violence against women. That

wouldn’t be fair and a bit of a cliche. We don’t want men to be unfair to us, so why should we be unfair to them?

Your character Badru didn’t take enough of a stand against her husband...

If, as a viewer, you feel so strongly about Badru, it’s great. Basically, you just want to wake somebody up. Badru is an eternal optimist and assumes that it takes time for people to change and that things will eventually work out. She feels one should give people a chance, and she’s just brushing everything under the carpet.

You have a compatible relationship with all your screen mothers, whether it was in Gully Boy or whether it was Dear Zindagi and now Darlings. That’s true. In cases of domestic violence like in Darlings, usually the mothers would say ‘don’t leave, bear it’ and all of that. Here Shamshunissa (my mother in the film) says all the opposite things to me, which I find so beautiful because it’s honest, it’s real, it’s daring, and it’s what you need to hear in a situation like that.

Would you agree that the turning point in the lm was when you abuse Hamza and say “ladki thi”? And also the

hospital scene. What was going on in your mind when you were doing those scenes?

In the hospital scene, you are just mourning and somehow coming to terms with it. In the scene where I abuse him, I am irritated that he’s bringing out this violent side of me. And becoming this person who wants to inflict pain on him. It’s something that she really does not want to do, but she’s doing it out of anger and vengeance. The wound is still raw. The subtext is that if he were to manipulate her, she could slip in that moment because her emotions were so raw. But she doesn’t.

You have an amazing chemistry with Shefali Shah in the lm… Individually we are all actors who have our own process of bringing our characters to life. Whether it was Shefali, Vijay Varma, or Roshan Mathew. It’s the director’s tone which brings you under one roof. We did our first reading and it was nice. But you never get a sense of a scene in a room with a script and a table. You have to be in costume, in character, on the set and in front of

the camera to get real. I remember when going back home one day I was feeling extremely happy and satisfied with the day’s work. We had worked for 12 hours and I already felt like going back on the set. That is a good indication of work going well. But you never want to say it, you don’t want to jinx it. You just feel it and hope to feel it again and again.

Playing a character who is going through emotional and physical abuse must be very alien to you. As a privileged person, what kind of reference points did you have?

Badru is an eternal optimist and assumes that it takes time for people to change and that things will eventually work out. She feels one should give people a chance

I didn’t have any reference points. People do ask me whether I met someone or spoke to someone. I don’t know, maybe I did, but no one was my reference point.

Okay, suppose there were friends who were going through emotional abuse and toxic relationships. What would be your instant reaction?

My instant advice to anybody would be to get out of a toxic relationship. But a lot of people don’t want to hear that advice. They need to reach that point themselves.

Was there a con ict between the privileged la-di-da actor and the money-counting producer?

Never! Because I am and will always be a creative person first. And I don’t understand money. That’s why I had Red Chillies

with, and they handled that beautifully.

Heart Of Stone was your rst Hollywood project, and you were pregnant while lming with Gal Gadot (who was also pregnant while lming Wonder Woman). Were you intimidated or scared as you had to wrap up the schedule in one shot? The shooting took place as per schedule. They did have to change a few things around and pull up a lot of work to see that I was done by a certain date as I had to come back here. But the whole team was extremely accommodating. I was grateful because I was shooting my first action movie and also doing some stunts. They had doubles and I was made to feel very comfortable. And that’s all that matters, especially when you are doing it for the first time. When I called up Gal and told her that I was pregnant, she said, “Oh my God, that’s going to be amazing.” She had such a lovely reaction and said that it was a good omen for the movie. She and her husband were very supportive. Even Karan Johar was fantastic because I was in the middle of shooting for Rocky And Rani when I told him that I was pregnant. I was just back from a shoot and Karan was always like, ‘Alia, please watch your step, watch your step!’ Which

he always did, but now he was doing it even more. Our production team had to deal with correct angles and all of that. Everybody has been so lovely, so excited and so supportive.

Marriage happened so quickly, and the baby also arrived quickly. Did you have the time to process all this? I don’t know if I had the time to process it, but it feels the same. There’s a different dynamic with so much more love and detail as we are no longer girlfriend and boyfriend and are going to be parents. There’s some new beautiful energy which I can’t explain. I feel like touching my head, touching wood, and everything around me.

Would you advocate living-in for everyone before getting married? Yes, if you can, why not? It’s great because you get used to each other, you get comfortable and you build so many memories without the pressure and baggage of being married. But each to his own.

With so much excitement and friends and relatives, what was going through your head when you were getting married? He proposed to me in January when we went for our holiday, and that was the time it started processing and changing. For me, it was like an exciting adventure coming ahead and nothing much to process.

When you marry into such a large family, does anything change? There was acceptance and warmth from the very beginning. We have been together for so many years now.

Looking at your mother, did you ever think what kind of a mom you would be?

My mum has been a great example of everything to me. I have zero complaints about the kind of mum she has been all my life. She’s a beautiful example and obviously you try to be as good, lovely and perfect as possible. But there’s no such thing as being a perfect parent. You just try to be as honest and as real as possible.

Coming to Brahmastra Part One : Shiva. It’s a macho lm, and you were obviously in a relationship with Ranbir when you were doing the lm. The relationship was happening behind the scenes, on the side and in the film. But at the end of the day, Ayan Mukerji’s vision was so much larger and there was so much at stake. There was a lot that we had to give, and that was all that mattered when we were working. Everything else took a backseat. Of course, there were moments like when Kesaria was playing and I would look at Ranbir and he would look at me. It’s great when you are romancing for real with the music playing in the background, which only happens in the movies. The whole experience of shooting for Brahmastra has been the best I have ever had in my life. The hope is that it all comes together.

If you are telling a story of a woman trying to find her feet in a man’s world, then I feel no one is better than a woman to tell that story

With Ranbir Kapoor

to partner

With Gal Gadot

CELEBRATING OPULENCE WITH

Mr. Anis Sajan, Mr. Ahmed Bin Sulayam, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Mr. Adel Sajan at the unveiling of Viewz by Danube

Dignitaries in attendance at the event

Mr. Anis Sajan - Vice Chairman, Danube Group Mr. Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Ms. Dhanu Abhyankar

Model: Viewz by Danube

The grand launch of Viewz by Danube

Key spokespeople at the event

Dr Sana Sajan, Mr Rizwan Sajan, Mrs Sameera Sajan and Mr Adel Sajan

Mr. Rizwan Sajan along with the honourable guests at the event

Mr. Syed Hussain - Head of Sales Danube Properties

Mr. Madhusudhan Rao (CEO Danube Group) along with Mrs. Sameera Sajan and Mr. Rizwan Sajan

A huge turnout of Brokers and Investors

Guests at the photobooth

Guests at the photobooth

Mr. Ahmed Bin Sulayem addressing the audience Mr. Adel Sajan interacting with the press

DUBAI BOLLYWOOD! CALLING

CHECK OUT THE CELEBS WHO DROPPED BY AT THE DANUBE PROPERTIES OFFICE IN DUBAI

Jacqueline Fernandez with Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, Mr Rizwan Sajan

Arshad Warsi

Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Jaaved Jaaferi

Raising the bar! Rekha Bhardwaj

SOULFUL SINGER REKHA BHARDWAJ WAS RECENTLY IN DUBAI, WHERE SHE LEFT THE CROWDS MESMERIZED WITH HER SOUL-STIRRING SONGS. AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE SPOKE TO THE SINGER ABOUT HER EXCITEMENT OF PERFORMING LIVE AND ALL THINGS MUSICAL

There’s a beautiful quality about Rekha Bhardwaj’s voice! It blends with the soul just as e ortlessly as it can tease you with its mischievous undertones. Little wonder then that the singer’s repertoire boasts of such variations. So while she has to her credit songs like ‘Naina Thag Lenge’ (Omkara), ‘Kabira’ (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), ‘Aise Kyun’ (Mismatched), ‘Phir Le Aaya Dil’ (Barfi), she also has on her list fun numbers like ‘Genda Phool’ (Delhi 6), ‘Pehli Baar Mohabbat’ and ‘Raat Ke Dhai Baje’ (Kaminey), ‘Mileya Mileya’ (Happy Ending), ‘Ghaghra’ (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), ‘Darling’ (7 Khoon Maaf), amongst others. As we catch up with the singer at the Winter Music Fest Presented by Danube Properties and organised by Spotlight Entertainment, she talks to us about the immersive experience of performing LIVE and also reveals the best way to describe her music!

What is the most exciting part about performing LIVE, especially in a place like Dubai that has so many expats? The best thing about a public show is that you connect with the audience directly and when they love your music back, that energy just multiplies. That becomes something magical, a feeling, emotions that we all experience together. And that’s what matters the most. And I always love performing in Dubai because the audience is really well-tuned to the music and they understand shayari. There’s a different vibe in performing LIVE. When recording in a studio you can have multiple takes, you can re-dub a song, make the changes… But in a LIVE there’s no room for that. And by God’s grace, somehow miracle happens and there’s something magical about singing LIVE, there’s a collective energy I feel and I completely transform on stage.

Your music is very soulful, tapping the Sufi and the folk, both! How would you describe your music?

I would just say that my music - its music of the heart! Whatever I sing from my heart, my soul reaches the hearts of my listeners. Now whether they find it to be healing, or joyful or soulful, as long as they connect, my work is done as an artiste! Because when I sing, I heal myself, I meditate! Also, the lyrics, they are so layered so like whether it’s Gulzaar Saab, his words add

more layers – there’s a philosophy, a depth and these layers keep unfolding and stir the listeners.

Is there any difference you see in the audience’s choices especially now with their exposure to music due to multiple platforms? Every artiste, every song, every music has its own journey and finds its own audience! So whether there’s more exposure to music or less, if the song is good, it will find its way home into the hearts of the musiclovers. More exposure is more awareness, but there’s something for everyone and when

fulfilling experience. I like to blend my songs, start with a more soulful number, melody wise. Then move to like a ‘Raat ke dhai baje’ or ‘Ranjha Ranjha’ in between that I talk to the audience, interact with them, share anecdotes, explain a little, talk about the wordings, I dance a lot on stage, so there’s a lot of exchange of energies and that’s fuel for the artiste. I think I come alive when I am on stage.

As a Bollywood singer, have you ever had to compromise with the kind of songs that you’ve

he insisted that I try. And when I heard that song, even I couldn’t believe that I could do it. So sometimes it’s their vision and I have learnt to trust that.

they still choose to pay and buy a ticket to listen to your music, it means that much more.

What are the songs you enjoy singing on stage the most?

I enjoy everything. Sometimes you may have a certain line-up ready, but then you change as per the vibe of the audience. I may start with ghazal and then do some more energetic numbers or the other way around, so whatever the song, I just enjoy singing it wholeheartedly, with joy! You should have something to take back home with you, as audience as well as an artiste! So, I’m blessed that so far each and every performance for me has been a very

chosen to sing? Actually, I’ve mostly been offered songs that the music composers know I will be able to sing. Like over a period of time they understand what kind of songs I can sing and my temperament! But then there are some who make you push the envelope as a singer. There have been times, when I wasn’t so confident of pulling a song, but the music composers had full faith and confidence in me.

Like Sachin and Jigar! When they offered ‘Mileya Mileya’ to me, I told Sachin that it’s such a young song, how would I be able to sing it. But

Because if the music director believes in you… then you’ll rarely ever fail. Like Pritam, when he asked me to sing ‘Phir le aaya dil’ I enjoyed it so much! In fact later he spoke in an interview that though he loved all versions of the song, the ghazal version is his favourite. So that kind of gives you more confidence to trust their instinct too. Then there’s Sachin’s ‘Judaayi’ in Badlapur or ‘Ek Ghadi’ in D-Day! Those will always be special when the trust factor was key. When the song released, the love just kept pouring in from across! So sometimes you have to trust the process, and if the director sees you in that song, then trust that too. The reach of music is unbelievable. As performers, we get the credit for the song after the actors who are the face of it on the screen. But if you really go to see, it is the music composers, the team everyone who deserves the credit too.

Is Vishal Sir (husband and filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj) a fan or a critic?

Both (laughs). If I sing well, he praises me, and if he thinks I am getting distracted, he is quick to point out that I should pay more attention to the riyaaz! Like if I spend too much time with my pet retriever – Roohdaar – he will tell me that I need to take care of my singing, my health too as it will reflect in the songs!

I would just say that my music - its music of the heart! Whatever I sing from my heart, my soul reaches the hearts of my listeners. Now whether they find it to be healing, or joyful or soulful, as long as they connect, my work is done as an artiste!

Harshdeep Kaur

Straight heart! FROM THE

POPULAR SUFI AND PLAYBACK SINGER HARSHDEEP KAUR RECENTLY REGALED DUBAI WITH HER MESMERIZING AND SOULFUL RENDITIONS AT THE WINTER MUSIC FEST PRESENTED BY DANUBE PROPERTIES AND ORGANISED BY SPOTLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT. OFTEN REFERRED TO AS THE ‘SUFI KI SULTANA’, THE SINGER HAS GIVEN US NOTABLE SONGS SUCH AS ‘DILBARO’ (RAAZI),‘NACHDE NE SAARE’ (BAAR BAAR DEKHO),‘HEER’ (JAB TAK HAI JAAN),‘KATIYA KARUN’ (ROCKSTAR),‘IK ONKAR’ (RANG DE BASANTI),‘ZAALIMA’ (RAEES); ‘KABIRA’ (YEH JAWANI HAI DEEWANI) AND ‘JUGNI JI’ (COCKTAIL) AMONGST SEVERAL OTHER HITS. AS I CAUGHT UP WITH THE SINGER FOR A CANDID CHAT, SHE TALKED MUCH ABOUT HER JOURNEY AS AN ARTISTE, THE PASSION FOR MUSIC AND THE DUBAI EXPERIENCE.

How exciting is it performing in Dubai?

It’s very exciting because Dubai has always been a wonderful audience. I’ve been coming a lot to Dubai in the last year, mostly for private gigs. But public concert ka ek alag hi charm hota hai. You know when people spend money, buy tickets, come with their friends and family in a mood to enjoy a concert - you know that they are music-lovers. So, that is very exciting.

What’s your headspace like ahead of a concert?

I try my best to make it a memorable experience for my audience. Because, if they want to listen to regular songs, they can always do that on their music apps. But, when it comes to LIVE music, there has to be something different for the audience. So, we plan that with a band. We sometimes change the arrangement of the song, I do a lot of talking with the audience and there’s a lot of interaction that happens only in LIVE concerts. So there’s a different vibe and energy to it altogether.

Playback or performing LIVE - What is more exciting for you as an artiste?

Well, both have their own charm. When you’re in the studio, it’s more like a learning experience and also where all your learnings actually come into use. So, all your knowledge of classical music or whatever music you have been trained for, it actually comes in use when you’re doing playback singing. Especially if you’re singing a song about a particular situation, you’re bound to sing in those particular expressions. But when it comes to LIVE music, anything can happen. It’s like catching the vibe of the audience.

AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE

And every time it’s like a rollercoaster ride. You don’t know what you’re going to feel. You get jitters before going on stage. And you don’t know what kind of audience you’re going to see. Thoda khulne me time lagta hai dheere-dheere. You get to know the audience; the audience is getting to know you. So, the excitement level is different.

Is this year all the more special for you as you complete two decades in the industry?

Yes (laughs). I started my career with a film called Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai, which was my first film song. I was only 16 then and it has been a beautiful journey. It was not easy because we shifted from Delhi to Mumbai. I had no godfather, no relatives in the industry. But thankfully I had my family’s support and the audience has always loved me. I came across very good people in the music industry and met really good music directors who understood my voice and gave me songs accordingly. So, I think it’s because of all love and blessings of my gurus also. I won’t take full credit for it.

What have been the milestones in the journey? Any game-changers? I would call them milestones, not gamechangers because it’s not just one thing or one song that changes everything. There are a lot of connecting points in a career which really matter. So a lot of connecting dots, a lot of songs become milestones. Like ‘Ik Onkar’ was one such prayer that I sang in Rang De Basanti. That brought me into limelight. But people didn’t know me by my face. And later when they saw me in reality show Junoon, they connected the dots like okay she’s the same singer who sang ‘Ik Onkar’. So it’s a very slow, but steady

process and I’m very thankful for this journey.

Any actor, any filmmaker, who’s on your wish list that you wish to playback for?

Thankfully, I have sung for most of the actors. Almost everyone. And I’m grateful for this journey. But yes, I’ve never sung for Kareena Kapoor. Maybe soon someday. I really like her craft. And Madhuri Dixit also.

There have been many changes in the industry, in terms of the platforms for upcoming artistes, the views dictating hits, there’s more competition too… What’s your take on all this?

In a way it is good that everybody gets a platform to showcase their talent. Anybody who can sing can just switch on the camera and upload a cover of their music or sing a song. But, it has a bad side also because there’s too much technology around. So, the normal people don’t get to know who’s actually a good singer and who’s an auto-tuned one. So, technology is being misused too. And yes, the success of a song is now actually depending on how it’s promoted, how many reels have been made on it, which wasn’t there in my case. Back then we were happy just seeing our songs being played on TV or radio. Then later the views thing came in, like how many views does a song get, then there were TikTok videos happening and now the success is actually compared with how many reels have been made on which trending song! When we started, our songs were hits despite all this not available at that time. So, the trends keep changing. After one year you’ll see something else as a media of promotion.

Have you ever had to compromise as an artiste to fit into the commercial aspect of being a

singer? Honestly, I haven’t done that. That’s why if you ever look at my profile also, you won’t find me doing trends or following what other people are doing. I always do what comes from my heart. Because if I also start following others then I won’t be any different from them. So, honestly our job is to just create good music and then leave it to the audience, if they like it, great! And if it trends then very good, but I cannot follow trends, because that won’t be me then. And my listeners will sense that too. So, it’s better to do something that you’re good at rather than following others.

Almost all your songs have a strong recall value...

Thank you so much! I’m blessed that I’ve got songs like that and I aim to keep on doing that. You might feel that the quantity is less but I always go for the quality. Even if it is one song, people should always remember it and connect to it. So there should be an emotion that the song stirs in you. Without it, the songs are easily forgotten!

What will we find in your playlist?

Top 5! These days, it’s just nursery rhymes. My son, he’ll be two years old in March.

What are the kind of songs that you listen to when you need to de-stress? Is it mostly your own songs, because they definitely work for us! (Laughs) No, when I listen to my songs, I keep finding mistakes or points where I feel like I could have sung better. Sometimes, I get very critical of my singing. Also I’m not that self-obsessed, so I don’t listen to my own songs. But I love listening to very soothing music. A lot of songs by Ali Sethi, I really love his voice. A lot of sufi music by Nusrat Sahab, Rahman Sir, Reshma Ji, Abida Ji. So it’s a mixed bag. Coke Studio songs. Something that is soulful and upbeat and it takes you to another world. You tend

to forget all your worries.

Do you miss Coke Studio in India?

In India only four seasons happened and I was part of all four of them. But yes, definitely, I feel our country should also have its own Coke Studio with more original music. We have so much folk music in our country also. So yes, I really miss that. Any artiste that you want to collaborate with for an album or song?

Actually many singers. So I am collaborating on a song with a very dear friend and he’s an amazing singer - Ash King. We are recording a duet that should be out really soon. So I’m looking forward to that.

Honestly our job is to just create good music and then leave it to the audience, if they like it, great! And if it trends then good,very but I cannot follow trends, because that won’t be me then. And my willlisteners sense that too.”

Let the Games Begin!

Danube Sports World – the region’s largest indoor multi-sport facility – officially opened its doors to sports and fitness enthusiasts in Dubai with a grand event that was attended by H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan - Member of Cabinet & Minister of Tolerance, H.E. Saeed Mohammed Hareb - Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, Sania Mirza - former Tennis Doubles World No. 1, Mr Rizwan SajanFounder, and Chairman, Danube Group, Mr Anis Sajan - Vice Chairman, Danube Group, Mr Adel Sajan - Managing Director, Danube Group, Dr Sana Sajan - Director, American Aesthetic, and many other esteemed personalities.

With a massive air dome spanning over an area of 200,000 sq ft, the newest venture - under the prestigious Danube Group - is all set to become the region’s favorite indoor sports destination. Located in the heart of Dubai, on Sheikh Zayed Road, Danube Sports World has nine state-of-the-art World Padel Tour courts for padel tennis, four indoor cricket courts from Gabba Australia, eight high-quality badminton courts, three FIFA-certified indoor football pitches, ITF-approved indoor tennis courts, table tennis, a Boxing ring, and a gym. The air dome is temperature controlled so one can enjoy their favorite sport irrespective of the weather conditions outside. The facility will also be open 365 days a year from 6 am to 12 am (GST).

(L-R) Mr Rizwan Sajan, Ms Sania Mirza, Mr Adel Sajan, H.E. Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, H.E. Saeed Mohammed Hareb, and Mr Anis Sajan

Mr Rizwan Sajan, Mr Anis Sajan, H.E. Saeed Mohammed Hareb, and Mr Adel Sajan

‘’Danube Sports World is the realization of a lifelong dream of mine and I am very excited that we will be bringing so many sports and fitness activities under one roof for the people of the UAE,”

- Mr Adel Sajan, Managing Director, Danube Group.

Bird eye view of Danube Sports World

Dr Sana Sajan and Sania Mirza

Mr Farooq Abdullah - MP Lok Sabha and Mr Rizwan Sajan

Mr Madhusudhan Rao, Mrs Sameera Sajan, Mr Adel Sajan and Mrs Kavitha Rao

Mr Adel Sajan addressing guests

Mr Farooq Abdullah - MP Lok Sabha with Mr Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi - Punjab Sports Minister

Mrs Sameera Sajan, Dr Sana Sajan and Mrs Kavitha Rao

(Right) Rashed Belhasa

Mo Vlogs and Mummy Mo

LIVING LIVING

HIS HIS DREAMS DREAMS Rithvik Dhanjani

SMALL SCREEN HEARTTHROB RITHVIK DHANJANI GETS NOSTALGIC ABOUT BEING A DUBAI KID AS HE CATCHES UP WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW AND ALSO TALKS ABOUT BRIDGING GENERATIONS AS A HOST ON HIS UNIQUE OTT DATING SHOW - DATEBAAZI!

feels like life’s come to a full circle,” says Rithvik Dhanjani as we catch up with the actor in Dubai. The joy of being in the city where he spent his childhood is evident, as the young TV star recalls playing and studying here. “It was here that I first dreamt of being an actor, and now that I’m one, revisiting Dubai just brings back memories and there’s such a strong feeling of gratitude,” he tells me. Of course Rithvik’s been here many times since he first tasted fame with his successful TV shows Bandini, Pavitra Rishta and finally Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani that cemented his stardom on the small screen. Winner of several reality shows and a much loved host, the actor has most recently been winning over the OTT as well – first with his performance as the gritty gangster Abhay Angre in Cartel and now with Amazon’s first Indian original non-fiction show – Datebaazi. And as we catch up over a platter of some delicious Indian delicacies, we chat about his passion for acting, his journey as an actor, and also find out the dating tips he has for the singles out there

Coming to Dubai must be nostalgic especially now that you come home as a star?

This is probably the first time that I’m here for a private gig, otherwise, I’ve always been to Dubai working on camera. But coming here in the capacity as just me is after 10 long years, which is amazing because this is home. And yes, that’s a beautiful feeling. I feel so content today because we’re sitting in Dubai, a place where I’ve grown-up. I used to go to Indian High School in Dubai and now to come back having become an actor… I don’t know how to put words to that feeling. Achievement, yes. Contentment, yes. But there’s a greater feeling of gratitude. This is exactly the life that I had imagined when I was 15 years old, and I performed on the stage of my school as a student. The lights would go down, the hall would be completely dark and for me that arena was my world. I came alive at that point. And I felt like I was addressing the universe! Today that’s a reality. I can be on any stage today that I want and I feel blessed and so overwhelmed!

You’re juggling between so many things –OTT, television, LIVE events, hosting, reality shows. Where do you find yourself more settled?

To be honest, I have been so happy and content with everything that I’m doing right now, I feel wonderful with being a part of so many multiple platforms and being appreciated on all of them. I feel so blessed that every bit that I’ve stepped in, I’ve been accepted with open arms and with so much love from the people. I don’t want to narrow that down to any one platform. Why limit yourself!

You have also constantly reinvented yourself, so it’s always very exciting to see what you’re going to be doing next. Like your angry Angre in Cartel! About Angre, there’s this very interesting incident. Almost a year after the show got over, I remember I had just bought a new car and had taken my mom

for a drive. Suddenly a traffic cop on a bike asked me to pull over. And I was recollecting like did I break a signal, took a wrong turn… So, I roll down my window and he goes, “Arey bhau! Bhai tumne bahut accha kaam kiya.” And my mom was right there and I saw the widest smile on my mom’s face. And that meant the world for me, you know seeing her beam with pride.

Tell us more about your new show Datebaazi, it’s a pretty unique concept! It’s a crazy show. When I was approached, the makers had this simple narration: ‘We’re going to make the parents go on a dating app for their single kids and have them swipe left or right for the kids’ prospective dating partners. On top of it, the kids (singles) are not going to have any control over who their parents are choosing for them.’ And I just thought, this idea was so bizarre, because if you read dating profiles today, they are very vocal which is great, but can put the parents in a culture shock. We put the parents and the singles in two different rooms. There’s no communication, but the singles can see what their parents are doing. So they are crossing their fingers and they are scratching their hair because they missed out on someone that they would have literally swiped right on. And their parents just go like, yeh nahin, woh, woh nahin yeh! Some parents are like ki ye kalesh karwayegi, yeh ladka bekar hai… And like my parents, so many other parents, they just want their kids to get married. But the kids are not there to get married, they are here to just date.

What’s your take on the whole dating scene today, with so many options versus the old time romances…

We’re in a commitment phobic generation, and like you rightly said, so many options available. The idea of working on something that’s

Venue & hospitality courtesy: Daalchini, Century Village, Dubai

broken is where romance is, it’s slow, steady and you got to work on the relationship every single day with your partner. Reinvent yourself and fall in love all over again every single day. And that idea is lost. I feel sad for this generation. Today it seems all about quick fixes, instant gratifications, and replace rather than repair! That’s not how love works!

What would be your advice to the singles out there? Take it slow. Everyone seems to be on a racing horse to finish a race or something to find that person. And if anything goes wrong then instantly replace! But to be honest, you got to work a little bit more on yourself and not be dependent on your partner to find your happiness. You have to find your happiness yourself and then share it with your partner! That’s pretty much what it is.

What advice for the parents? Communication - because the generations they come from and the kids belong to function very differently. It’s important for parents to sort of understand the need of new generation and that only happens through communication.

Bridging that generation gap must be quite a task, but you seem to be handling it really well!

Yes and I’ve had some very hilarious and awkward situations where parents are so clueless about the generation of their kids! In their profile, we’ve asked wild questions to the singles, like ‘What’s been your most adventurous hook-up story?’ So I’ve been put in a spot multiple times in the show and trust me it’s not easy, more for the parents to come to terms with the dating culture.

Also this is your first non-fiction on OTT? Yes, this is my first in the OTT space where I am doing a non-fiction. In fact, OTT spaces have just opened up to non-fiction here. The first that Amazon did was Case Toh Banta Hai, which was an adapted format. This is the second, but this one is the first Original Amazon.

Would you want your parents to choose a date for you?

Never. If my mum had her way, she would make me marry the first girl she comes across (laughs)!

So, you have that pressure at home? Oh! Every single day.

Single? Even though you enjoy such a huge female fan-following?

Yes, I have nobody that I’m seeing right now. Which is also really sad, so yes (laughs). It’s a different space that I’ve never been in. I mean I’ve been in a committed relationship for almost nine years. So, this is still new to me.

Do you feel that pressure of expectations every time you choose your project? I always go with what my gut says, even though to be honest that pressure is there like the choice that you’ve made, you hope works out in the favour of your fans and what they expect. Sometimes, this pressure actually works like a speed breaker too and stops me from getting carried away too. So there’s a bit of that balance, where that pressure cannot become the barricade. The only way is to constantly be steady and be grounded so that I can listen to my true voice and what it’s saying. It has all the answers!

What’s kept you going thought it all? Yaar ek junoon hai! Ek kuch pagalpan hai. Aur us pagalpan ka koi naam nahin hai, Bas ek feeling hai. That I want to keep going, keep doing better. I won’t settle for anything lesser than the best! I was almost going to give into doing my dad’s business back when I started out, but I knew that’s not going to keep me happy. So the madness comes from the fact that I don’t want to go back there. I only want to be better every single day. That’s the only thing that keeps me going every single day.

A host, non-fiction, fiction… what’s the most challenging?

Being a host is definitely more challenging because you got to work on your wit, your spontaneity and all of that. By God’s grace that comes to me naturally, I don’t know how! But the idea of sort of transforming myself to becoming someone else, that’s fascinating.

UNAPOLOGETICALLY

YOURS! Neha Bhasin

POPULAR SINGER NEHA BHASIN HAS ALWAYS BEEN A ROCK STAR! FROM HER SENSATIONAL ENTRY INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY AS PART OF CHANNEL V’S 5-GIRL POP GROUP VIVA IN 2002 TO MAKING HER MARK AFTER GOING SOLO AND HAVING CHARTBUSTERS LIKE ‘JAG GHOOMEYA’ (SULTAN), ‘HEERIYE’ (RACE 3) TO HER CREDIT AMONGST SEVERAL REGIONAL HITS INCLUDING THOSE IN THE PUNJABI AND SOUTH INDUSTRY, SHE’S BEEN UNSTOPPABLE IN HER JOURNEY. BOLD AND OUTSPOKEN, THE FIERCENESS HAS NOT DIMMED AT ALL IN HER TWO DECADES HERE, BUT STEPPING INTO THE THIRD DECADE, NEHA TELLS ME THAT SHE’S WISER WHEN CHOOSING HER BATTLES NOW AS I CATCH UP WITH THE SONGSTRESS IN DUBAI. IN A CANDID CHAT, SHE ALSO TALKS ABOUT BRIDGING THE INDIE SPACE WITH FILM MUSIC AND TRYING MORE EXPERIMENTAL MUSIC THIS YEAR. EXCERPTS

AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE

What is the biggest change you have seen in the music industry?

I think the music industry changes every few years. So when I came in we sort of superseded Devdas that year in CD sales. Cut to within a few years itself, the pop industry completely vanished. Playback was always big but then it became the only music industry at that point. And then there was a long void in terms of what is the next step.

Followed by these different platforms emerge big, the Indie and Bollywood music – each found its own space! Today OTT is one of the biggest platforms and COVID kind of cemented that. That phase was again the rise of independent, non-film music. South industry is becoming really big too.

Some of your own biggest hits have been from the South!

Yes, I have sung many songs in Tamil and Telugu. And I don’t sing very often but when I sing, it becomes a hit. So, it kind of works for me. I work a lot with DSP. And he is making his headway now in a big way. And I think in general the South industry is now taking center stage which I think was long overdue. Because they are a talented market and I’ve always felt that way. Very professional, very passionate.

The indie artistes today have that many more platforms to explore as an option, as against just the playback singing!

Oh yes! You see so many niche artistes like Prateek Kuhad, who’ve had massive success. He’s one of the biggest examples of somebody who’s became famous on listening portals. But many of you were leading in that space back then before it all moved to Bollywood! Honestly speaking there was no choice at that time. Like if you wanted to be somebody, you had to do playback singing. Otherwise, you won’t be considered as an important part of the overall music industry. 90s had a very small phase of indie-pop. And in 2002 when we came, it was the last trickle of it. So it was a very weird time. For us it was still different, because we had a big machinery behind us. The real journey started after the breakup of the band wherein you realize that now you’re as common as everybody else. You’re popular as a band, but your solo equity doesn’t really exist at this point.

But you never gave up on that Indie space completely?

Yes, even today I’ll do both. I never really stopped doing my own music because that’s how I started out and that’s what I really believe in, even more than playback singing. Playback singing for me is like a job. But the Indie music scene is like a process. It’s like making your own film or making your own web series.

Your voice wasn’t the most conventional when it came to Bollywood, yet, you have found that niche into mainstream singing… Yes, we did have like a Shweta Shetty and others back then, but they still weren’t considered mainstream voices. I always say that I think Sunidhi (Chauhan) was probably among the first few who broke that barrier in the film industry. For artistes like me, who were just entering the industry, it was very different. Especially this voice is not we are used to listening to. And I’m talking about the industry, not so much the audience. They were used to thinner voices with higher

The real journey started after the breakup of the band wherein you realize that now you’re as common as everybody else. You’re popular as a band, but your solo equity doesn’t really exist at this point.

ranges. And here I was singing low with typical Punjabi husky voice, which today I feel they are celebrating. So I guess you have to wait your time.

So, what’s coming up for you next?

I have sung for a couple of films. One of the new Salman Khan starrers. In fact that should be releasing sometime soon. Then I am releasing my own folk single. This year there would be a lot of releases. I am planning to release every two months like my own music, other than film music anyway. Also, we have a series called ‘Folktales’. Unfortunately we released it and in three days we went into lockdown in 2020. So we want to release it again this year, second season – a series of 10-12 folk songs. And I want to bring in legends like Gurdas Maan Ji and Hansraj Hans.

Right now everything’s on social media, more than just singing, it’s also a lot about your fitness, your looks!

It’s always been like that for me. Nothing’s changed there. We started our career with a massive movement and back in the day we were literally trained like actresses. We were 1819, but it was like you can’t go to the airport without heels, you have to be in full makeup, and there was all cakey makeup, it was pancake wala zamana (laughs). We were groomed for everything. So for me, nothing has changed. In fact, I feel I have become easier going than what I was. Also today, I’m more comfortable in my skin, ‘this is me, take it or leave it’.

You’ve always been very outspoken, so what’s your take on social media trolling?

I think you have your phases. I used to give

it back a lot back in the day. I still end up doing it sometimes but now most of the time I just ignore. At that time there was a reason, I felt that there was a need to speak up because we were normalizing bullying and trolling is a form of abuse and bullying. But now, it is just the way it is. Unfortunately, even social media platforms are working on the basis of traction wherein negativity gets more traction. So, I think we just have to rise above and beyond and do your thing. They’re still watching you anyway, right (laughs).

What’s the secret of being Neha Bhasin!

I think I have purity of intention, in general, not just work, but also the way I live my life. That also means that I make mistakes very blatantly and very openly. I think that I accept my humanness. I have realized one thing. There’s nothing that’s permanent - not your success, not your failure. And like you said, I’ve seen real big highs at a very young age, and I’ve also seen real dips! A lot of people think that struggles are only money-based or lifestyle-based, but it’s a lot more than that. Finding a voice as an artiste, that’s more important. So many of them come and go. It’s only the few five or 10 per cent that really get to leave a mark through good work. So I think the journey is about reaching there. Learning and growing along the way. I don’t take myself seriously. I’m in the race but not in the rat race. Like I’m still competitive but I’m not really competing or trying to prove myself to anybody.

What is that one lesson you have learnt through it all?

The biggest learning is to accept that the world will never validate you. You can win the biggest awards out there, but

A lot of people think that struggles are only money-based or lifestyle-based, but it’s a lot more than that. Finding a voice as an artiste, that’s more important. So many of them come and go. It’s only the few five or 10 per cent that really get to leave a mark through good work. So I think the journey is about reaching there

no amount of accomplishments is going to make you feel validated till you validate yourself. So, it’s most important. You have to love yourself, not in an egotistical way, but love yourself how you’re going to love your child. Be passionate, be kind to yourself and focus on your own growth versus looking around because that never helps.

A PERFECT FIT

TANZIM PARDIWALLA CHATS WITH VIHAAN SAMAT, THE CHARMING ACTOR WHO HAS BECOME THE NEXT BIG THING ON OTT, THANKS TO MISMATCHED

There are actors from every generation that draw us all in with their boy-nextdoor charm. One of them is Vihaan Samat. With his depiction of Harsh in the wildly popular OTT series Mismatched, the Gen Z star has us captivated. In the slice-of-life series Eternally Confused And Eager For Love, supported by Zoya Akhtar, he played Ray, a man navigating life in his 20s. Before his appearance in the Prajakta Koli and Rohit Saraf starrer prompted fan rumours and trending hashtags. Samat excels in these flawlessly cast parts. And if you ask him, it’s just a small portion of his potential and goals. Vihaan speculates that it all began with school performances and living

When I first started out, I simply made a list of people I wanted to work with. Call it manifestation, but I consider myself fortunate that she (Zoya Akhtar) created something in which I am involved

Vihaan Samat and Prajakta Koli in Mismatched

in Mumbai, a city known for its famous residents. “I liked the sensation of commanding attention while performing on stage. When I was younger, I considered being an actor, dancer, singer, producer, writer, and even a stand-up comedian. But acting ultimately won. I finally realised that this is what I want to pursue when I started college. After earning my BFA in theatre, I decided that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” he says.

While auditioning for his first role was difficult, Vihaan appears to understand the process now and its outcome. “I’m blessed because Zoya Akhtar was one of the top directors that I wanted to work with,” he says about landing a role in a Zoya Akhtar production. “When I first started out, I simply made a list of people I wanted to work with. Call it manifestation, but I consider myself fortunate that she created something in which I am involved. On the first day of the shoot, she gave me a fist bump. It was sweet of her to do that.”

It wasn’t long before the newcomer rose to prominence with Mismatched, which brought with it a new set of challenges. One of them being transitioning from Season 1 to Season 2 in the midst of a pandemic. He struggles to articulate what he feels for the series as it has become an integral part of his life. “You’re at a loss for words. It’s been three years since we shot the first season in April 2019. I feel like I’ve grown as a person from Season 1 to Season 2. People were going through a difficult time during the lockdown, and we had changed a lot. So we had to return to the physicality of season one and take it to the next level,” he comments. He’s happy that he got to work with a director like Akarsh Khurana, and calls it a learning experience.

Despite the challenges, the actor remembers Mismatched as an exercise in bonding with his co-stars. As a rising star himself, he can’t help but share his enthusiasm for

his colleagues. “It was really interesting to see how they talk about their work in big-budget films. I really enjoyed listening to Prajakta talk about JugJugg Jeeyo and Rohit talk about Vikram Vedha. It was so sweet when they received lovely fan merchandise. I enjoy seeing their reactions because they are wholesome and cute people. But once the camera starts rolling, we’re all just actors, and everything fades away,” he explains.

There’s something to be said for the thrill of witnessing a moment of internet virality for a show you didn’t expect to go viral. Vihaan admits he was surprised when his character received positive feedback from fans. “After Season 1, I was taken aback. The cast had not anticipated the show’s success. We simply wanted to create a fun, cute show and see how it went. The response was unexpected. I’m seeing a lot more #DimHarsh or #Darsh or whatever you want to call it online.”

It’s safe to say that performers require more than a brief moment in the spotlight. Vihaan discusses his daring ambitions, which include roles in sci-fi, period dramas, and investigative thrillers. “Before I came into this field, I really loved acting and the craft of acting, as well as stories with a soul,” he says. “And I want to do things that people will be able to watch and appreciate long after I’m gone. So I’d like to do something like Sholay. I’d love to tell similar stories.” Looking back on his experiences, Vihaan seems to have cracked the code of staying on track. “I don’t know who told me this but I repeat it to myself often - Just focus on the performance and the rest will take care of itself. It’s a nice way of reminding myself what I’m here for,” he observes.

Over the years, his biggest influences have been actors like the late Irfan Khan, Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor, among others. But he confesses he isn’t just hungry for stardom and wants to make a name for himself as a performer too. The actor excitedly talked about wanting to put his talents to the test - exactly what he needs to break the mould and steer clear of repetition. Well, it’s lights, camera, action for Vihaan Samat. 

I really enjoyed listening to Prajakta talk about JugJugg Jeeyo and Rohit talk about Vikram Vedha. It was so sweet when they received lovely fan merchandise

Vihaan Samat in Eternally Confused and Eager for Love

Aly Raza Beig

Race CarDriver