Stardust - December 2021 by magnapublishing

Throwback: Too arrogant or cocky? Shiney Ahuja Unplugged!

DECEMBER 2021 India ₹ 75.00 UK/Europe € 3.99 USA/Canada $ 2.99

A MAGNA PUBLICATION

Year-End Special: Top directors, female actors ruling the OTT & viral web-series

Was Jacqueline Fernandez in love with conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar?

Why was Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt’s wedding postponed again?

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Please write to stardustindiamagazine@gmail.com and give us your comments, suggestions, opinions, criticism and feedback. We have several new exciting things – from great articles, interviews, candid pictures and interactive competitions with great prizes in the offing, so watch this space for more…

Cover Story: Why was Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt’s wedding postponed again? .......................................13 Get Snappy: “I would not call myself ‘choosy’, I just prefer quality over quantity. So when I was offered Special Ops 1.5, I loved it!” – Aftab Shivdasani ...................................... 32 Get Snappy: “One should take out time for important things in life that gives you happiness!” – Yami Gautam ................................................................................. 38 In Focus: Was Jacqueline Fernandez in love with alleged conman business man Sukesh Chandrashekhar? ................................................................................................. 24 Stardust Special: “Cricket as a sport is worshipped in our country and now having a film made especially on our first World Cup win 38 years back – and the feeling of me being a part of this, is priceless.” – Jatin Sarna ................................... 46 Music Room: “Today, even after delivering so many hit songs, people don’t sometime know your face.” – Aastha Gill ............................................................ 56 Starry Look: Sara Ali Khan ..................................................................................................................................... 52 Blast From The Past: “Name any actor and I’ll strip him apart completely” - Shiney Ahuja ........................ 68

COLUMNS Neeta’s Natter ....................................................................................................................................................... 05 Web List ................................................................................................................................................................. 42 List Show ................................................................................................................................................................ 21 The Spotlight .......................................................................................................................................................... 41 Starry Sashay ........................................................................................................................................................ 66 Stardust On The Go ............................................................................................................................................. 64 STARDUST is published monthly by the proprietors MAGNA PUBLISHING CO. LTD., Magna House, 100/E Old Prabhadevi Road. Mumbai 400025, India. Tel No: 91-22-67091234. Editorial texts and illustrations are the copyright of the publishers of this magazine. No one may reproduce any material before permission is obtained in writing. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Mumbai (India) only 2020 Copyright Magna Publishing Co Ltd. Volume No 51 (No. 12) Please address all your advertising, subscriptions and trade enquiries for to: Magna Publishing Inc, 125 Central Park North, PH4, New York NY 10026. T: 212-725-7833 F: 212-889-3250 E: stardustmagazine@aol.com

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After all that shrouded secrecy, the stunningly beautiful Katrina Kaif finally got married to Vicky Kaushal with band baja in a typical big fat Punjabi wedding surrounded by his and her people in Rajasthan. By the way, the security was so tight – they had over 100 bouncers and supposedly, any drones flying overhead was to be shot down. In fact, somebody actually commented that it looked as if it was another ‘surgical strike’ rather than a wedding.

Of course a lot of our ‘Kat’ fida actors were completely heartbroken. Like a crestfallen Sidharth Malhotra insisted that it was Katrina he saw opposite him in Shershaah not Kiara Advani, and in his head, they already had two cute bachchas. Hmm… why do we think Sid is going to pay for this statement, what say Kiara? 5

Talking about fida heroes, Kat’s ‘ex’s who were not invited for the wedding, supposedly gifted her some very expensive gifts. According to the grapevine, Salman Khan got Kat an expensive luxe car worth a few crores, while Ranbir allegedly gave her a sparkling diamond necklace. How about that for ‘Ex factors’?

Vicky Kaushal sure is a lucky man. It was just a couple of years ago when he told Kat on stage in front of Salman Khan ki why doesn’t she find a Vicky Kaushal and marry him? Perhaps Kat thought Vicky was super brave to say that in front of the Tiger, and guess what, she took his words seriously and did just that!

There was a huge buzz that though Salman Khan and his parents wouldn’t attend Katrina’s wedding, his sisters Arpita and Alvira would be there. The pap’s were eagerly waiting for their momentous arrival until Arpita burst their bubble and told the media that she and her family weren’t invited for the wedding, so how could they go for it? Weren’t Alvira and Arpita close buddies of Kat?

There were huge rumours that Salman Khan would be throwing a grand reception for Kat and Vicky in Mumbai. But maybe the agony was too much for the Sultan for he fled to Riyadh on the day of Kat’s wedding. Once back, he shot for Bigg Boss and was reportedly in a very foul mood. We understand, Bhaijaan, a broken heart is indeed tough to handle. 6

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…And as ‘weddings’ are the new buzzword, this season, looks like a lot of our gorgeous celebs are taking it very seriously. Ankita Lokhande (Sushant Singh Rajput’s ex) married her long time beau Vinay Jain in another big fat wedding. Supposedly, Ankita gifted her husband a yacht and her husband Vicky presented her a luxe villa in Maldives. Good heavens, weddings sure are lucrative.

Anyway, Mouni Roy is also joining the shaadi shudha bandwagon. She is getting married to her boyfriend, Suraj Nambiar, a Dubai based businessman on January 27, 2022. Will she quit films and stay in Dubai? Or will she shuttle between Dubai and Mumbai for her career? But wait a moment… what career are we talking about?

Another loved up couple supposedly ready to walk down the aisle are Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal. Richa has been giving a lot of hints that on her 35th birthday, Ali and she are planning to tie the knot. Strangely enough, like Ranbir and Alia, these two love birds too have been postponing their wedding dates left, right and centre. Hmm…! 9

Enough of weddings, let’s go to the bubbly Sara Ali Khan. Do you know this svelte heroine was seriously fat as a teenager until mom Amrita Singh gave her a fiery pep talk. Supposedly, she told Sara that Tuntun ka zamana gaya, it’s time to shape up or get shipped out.” …And so a determined Sarah lost all those oodles of fat. No wonder, she loves to flaunt her perfect figure in itsy bitsy bikinis.

Recently Genelia Deshmukh revealed in a talk show that exactly one month after her marriage, she broke down and wanted to call it quits. And it was because she was supposed to dress up like a newly-wed bride for dinner every evening, while Ritesh would be there in boxer shorts. …So unfair, right?

Talking about married couples, Priyanka Chopra recently lashed out at fans for addressing her as the ‘wife of Nick Jonas’. ‘Should I show you the repertoire of work I’ve done’, she averred rather irately. Hmm… is there trouble in paradise?

There’s definitely no trouble in John Abraham’s domestic life despite all those wicked rumours. Recently, he posted some beautiful pictures of his wife and him looking very loveydovey celebrating his birthday,. This has definitely put to bed the constant conjecture that their long-distance marriage - his wife supposedly works in the US - is on the rocks. Now they know… 10

Kiara Advani is one lucky girl. She’s been signed up to be the brand ambassador for a luxury car. Supposedly, she’s one of the first women actors to have made it to this elite spot. Atta gal! Kiara sure has arrived!

Motor-mouth Rakhi Sawant, the fave of Farah Khan and Salman Khan, has got herself in a bit of soup. Supposedly, she married a man called Ritesh Singh, who is already married with a kid. And to top it, he’s been accused of domestic violence too. Not that the man is nice to Rakhi, he snaps at her every time which even made an irate Salman Khan shout at him. But poor Rakhi bears it all for her pati parmeshwar!

Amitabh Bachchan has at last confessed. That’s right…on the KBC sets, he told Neena Gupta and Gaj Rao that he ‘lies’ to Jaya every single day. Supposedly Neena Gupta asked him what does he lie about to save himself? Big B’s response was epic. He said, “Humara aisa hai ki, prathidin humko jhoot bolna padta hai.” Hmm… behind every angry ‘young’ man, there is an angrier woman, right? 11

Karan Johar is angry. Why? ‘cos he hosted a party oops an “intimate dinner” with eight friends including Kareena Kapoor, Amrita Arora and Maheep Kapoor, and they all tested Covid positive except for Karan. And somebody in the media had the gall to dub KJo’s plush penthouse as the hotspot of the virus. No wonder, poor KJo got all worked up, and penned a lengthy note to the media stating that he’s not the centrifugal point of the pandemic hotspot. Got it, KJO! Well, Deepika Padukone’s dressing sense sure has gone the Ranveer Singh way. Recently, she wore a flaming red gown with ballooned sleeves for an event and guess what; a catty website insisted that Dippy’s gown resembled the Stardust Award trophy. Chalo, we do know Deepika does love Stardust a lot!

Cat’s Crown

This month goes to... Shahid Kapoor, who has undergone intense and rigorous training to get into the skin of a cricketer for Jersey. So much so that despite the time he cut his lip while shooting for the film and got 25 stitches, Shahid was still back on the field, batting strong for Jersey! 12

CO V E R S TOR Y

Why did Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt’s wedding date get postponed? News of Ranbir and Alia setting their wedding date popped up way back in 2020 but then the pandemic played havoc. After which, several ‘D’ dates were pondered on but that again was trashed and the wedding date was postponed yet again. Sumita Chakraborty wonders why Ranbir and Alia’s wedding date keep getting postponed. It was on the branded plush couch of big Daddy KJo’s ‘baap of all controversy rakers’ Koffee With Karan that Alia Bhatt rather cutely quipped that she would like to marry Ranbir Kapoor. But of course, at that point, it did seem like a far-fetched pipe dream as Ranbir was dating Katrina Kaif – remember the ‘infamous’ picture of a red n white bikini clad Katrina with Ranbir snapped on a private holiday on the beaches of Europe that got pap’d straight to the Stardust cover. But that was then... For destiny and the sands of time had plans of their own, and as they say about the universe and how it conspires to make your dreams come true – and sure enough Alia’s choti si khwaish ended up becoming a reality. Supposedly on the sets of Ayan Mukerjee’s Bhrahmãstra, the love dipped arrow of Cupid struck ...and all equations changed drastically. And, how! 14

Cut to today: Katrina Kaif recently got married to Vicky Kaushal in a royal wedding in Rajasthan, while Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt celebrate three years of togetherness. And of course, the loved up duo are completely serious about each other and naturally want to take their relationship to the next level. But for some reason or the other, their marriage dates keep getting postponed. Why?

It was on the branded plush couch of big Daddy KJo’s ‘baap of all controversy rakers’ Koffee With Karan that Alia Bhatt rather cutely quipped that she would like to marry Ranbir Kapoor. Is it because of the family? According to a source, more than ‘Ralia’, mamma Neetu Kapoor who earlier supposedly hated all Ranbir’s girlfriends with a vengeance, loved the cute-as-abutton Alia and is determined to make her a Kapoor bahu. Alia’s parents of course were a different kettle of fish. Mahesh Bhatt had once quipped on KJo’s couch that Ranbir

Kapoor’s biopic should be called “ladies man”, while Alia’s cousin Emraan Hashmi, who shared the couch with uncle Mahesh on the show, advised Ranbir to ‘Stop playing the ladies’ man stereotype’. Mahesh of course topped it up by warning that no one should think of dating Alia, jokingly saying, “I will keep her locked up.”

Mahesh was then asked about the film he walked out of and the filmmaker revealed it was Ranbir’s Rockstar. He also called the actor’s 2012 film Barfi as the most overrated film and went on to place Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Hrithik Roshan above Ranbir while naming them in order of acting ability. But of course, Mahesh over time changed his tune perhaps because of his darling beti Alia. When quizzed about Alia and Ranbir, Mahesh averred, “They’re in love. You don’t need to be a genius to get that! I love Ranbir… he’s a great guy. What they do to their relationship is something they’ll have to figure out.” But there was a buzz that perhaps Mahesh wasn’t as happy with the alliance as he showed the world. We did message Mahesh Bhatt to know more but currently, he’s dubbed himself as a recluse and has steered away from the media. Perhaps the unseemly questions about Rhea Chakraborty and her “relationship” with Mahesh Bhatt during the Sushant Singh Rajput media trial got to Mahesh Bhatt. Or maybe Alia has stopped him from making his bold ‘n’ bombastic statements after the Sadak 2 press conference where a visibly riled Mahesh Bhatt was screaming at the media in front of an uncomfortable Alia. Who knows? Mom Soni Razdan who called Ranbir Kapoor a “lovely boy” when asked about ‘Ralia’s wedding claimed she has no clue about the wedding. “Even I don’t know when it’ll (the wedding) happen. Even I’m waiting for some information.” Adding when prodded a bit more, “Well, there’s a lot of time left. It’ll happen sometime in the future, and that’s a long way off. Now, when it’ll happen, I don’t know. Maybe, you’ll have to call Alia’s agent for that but even her agent might not know.”

Is It Ranbir? Another reason for the wedding being frequently pushed back ‘n forth could be the dulha to be Ranbir himself. It is a fact that Ranbir Kapoor is supposed to be a bit of a commitment phobic guy. He’s dodged marriage several times but this time; according to an insider, even Ranbir is supposedly extremely serious about Alia. In fact, in an interview, Ranbir has even admitted that he and Alia Bhatt were to get married in 2020, but then Covid-19 struck. He said, “It would’ve been sealed had the pandemic not hit our lives. I don’t want to jinx it by saying anything. I want to tick-mark that goal very soon in my life.”

“Even I don’t know when it’ll (the wedding) happen. Even I’m waiting for some information.” – Soni Razdan 16

In fact, even at the poster launch of Bhrahmãstra, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt were seen having a gala time with each other, making it clear that they share a close bond. At one point, Ranbir read out a fan question about their marriage and the question read, “Ranbir, when will you marry Alia or someone else?” and to this, Ranbir first said, “Well, haven’t we seen lot of people getting married in the last one year? I think we should be happy with that.” But when prodded further, Ranbir Kapoor went on to ask Alia about their plan “Hamari kab hogi?” Alia shot back with, “Why you are asking me?”. Director Ayan Mukerji, however, ended this million dollar topic with, “Aaj ke liye ek hi date kaafi hai, Brahmastra ki release date”

“It (the wedding) would’ve been sealed had the pandemic not hit our lives.” – Ranbir Kapoor

In fact, Alia and Ranbir have even found their dream love nest and frequently go there to check on the progress of their new home.

What Is The Reason? It is a fact that rumours of their wedding have been afloat from the last two years. However, earlier it was because of Rishi Kapoor’s sad demise and then later on for some reason or the other, the date kept getting pushed back. Of course, both Alia and Ranbir were frequently spotted together looking totally in love with each other. In fact, Alia and Ranbir have even found their dream love nest and frequently go there to check on the progress of their new home.

Ranbir Kapoor went on to ask Alia about their plan - “Hamari kab hogi?” Alia shot back with, “Why you are asking me?”

Now the latest reports claim that Alia and Ranbir have postponed their marriage to the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023. Even a few months ago, Alia whisked Ranbir off on his birthday for a romantic get-a-way to magical Rajasthan. At that point, there was a buzz that Ranbir and Alia would get married in December 2021 and the big fat Kapoor wedding would happen in picturesque Italy. The entire Kapoor clan supposedly was informed about the same. But at the same time, news broke out about Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal’s super private wedding. Perhaps because of this or maybe the Kapoor’s had other plans, the ‘Ralia’ wedding was postponed yet again. But now the latest reports claim that Alia and Ranbir have postponed their marriage to the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023. That, according to a source, is because of their “choc-o-bloc shoot schedules. Ranbir and Alia are planning a destination wedding to some exotic location outside India and the preparations for it will take some time.” 20

However, another source tells us that the reason why Alia and Ranbir’s wedding date keep getting postponed is because of Bhrahmãstra. They are waiting for the film to be realised which is slated to be some time in September 2022. ...Whatever the reason maybe, it’s time Ranbir and Alia let their romantic hearts make the big “D’ Day decision. After all, only love can pave the way... So get all geared up to see another big fat wedding of the decade – the ‘Ralia’ wedding!

LI ST S HOW

strong female characters that took the ott world by storm in 2021 Today women are ruling the film, television, and digital space with brilliant portrayals of their strong roles and characters. The OTT has also created tremendous space for female-centric shows. Various female characters coming from different walks of life have moved society with their outlook, strength and passion. Here we celebrate five such actresses who by their stellar performances on Netflix have created a special place in the hearts of their audience.

Pooja Bhatt from Bombay Begums: Pooja Bhatt plays the role of Rani who happens to lead the Royal Bank of Bombay, in the series. She is at a good stage in her career and has a happy marriage, but still, it seems something is missing. His stepchildren do not like her and even in professional life, people are pulling her behind like sharks. Pooja Bhatt is brilliant in the show. The most emotional scenes of the series are between her and her step-daughter Shai. Bhatt shows pain and helplessness, but still, the strength of her character does not diminish. 21

Taapsee Pannu from Haseen Dillruba: The film is a solid thriller that will keep you at the edge of your seat throughout. The film is set in a small city called Jwalapur, it tells the tale of a recently married couple, Rani and Rishu, played by Taapsee Pannu and Vikrant Massey respectively. Rani in the film is homely yet a live wire and true-blue crime fiction fan who can’t stop reading Dinesh Pandit novels. Taapse Pannu champions the story as she makes the character of Rani her own and takes control of the narrative.

Shruti Hassan from Pitta Kathalu: Netflix’s first Telugu anthology, keeps women in the centre of its universe and talks about their desire while they battle to change the power dynamics. The story X-Life by Nag Ashwin shows us how love is dead in a dystopian land where social media is controlling us. In the story Shruti Haasan does a phenomenal job playing the character and is seen transitioning from being loving, to being cunning, to being invincible. 22

Amruta Subhash from Dhamaka : Amruta Subhash portrays the character of Ankita, the boss of Arjun Pathak who is faced with a tough question of choosing his career or going ahead and doing what his conscience asks him too. In the film Amruta Subhash is seen taking on a strong, powerful and delightfully unrelenting character of a news producer obsessed with TRPs who promises to get Arjun Pathak back his primetime show in lieu of the explosive breaking news.

Shweta Basu Prasad from Ray : Shweta Basu Prasad stars in Forget Me Not, a segment in Netflix India’s anthology Ray, a segment directed by Srijit Mukherji. Forget Me Not apportions a key role to a woman wronged, it follows the story of the calculating businessman Ipsit Nair who begins to lose grip with reality. Shweta Basu essays the role of Maggie, Ipsit Nair’s assistant with whom we learn later as the stroy unfolds that that he had an affair with his assistant Maggie and subsequently forced her to get an abortion. The film is notable for Shweta Basu’s strong performance and impactful dialogues. 23

I N FOC US

Was Jacqueline Fernandez in love with alleged conman business man Sukesh Chandrashekhar? Jaqueline Fernandez’ name has cropped up in a messy money laundering case amounting to Rs 200 crores. Her cosy pictures with alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar has fired up the internet... and Jackie finds herself embroiled in a lot of mess. Sumita Chakraborty digs deeper to find out more about how Jacqueline Fernandez got herself into this scandalous case.

ometime in June 2021, news filtered in that the gorgeous Jacqueline Fernandez is no longer single. She was supposedly in love with a South entrepreneur and would soon be moving into a Rs 175 crores bungalow. Supposedly, the Kick heroine had finally found her real life hero and was very serious about him. If you remember Jacqueline for the longest time has focussed on her career

more so after the ugly break up with her ex beau director Sajid Khan. Of course, rumourmongers kept brewing unfiltered goss linking her with the Shershaah hottie Sidharth Malhotra but Jackie dearest neither confirmed nor denied this. So the pap’s had a field of a day wondering if the hunky Sid was dating Jacqueline or Kiara, or both...more so as both these svelte gals’ cars were seen parked on Sid’s parking lot especially in the evenings. 25

Jacqueline when asked about it laughed it out saying Sid and she were just doing some serious script reading together. Hmm... interesting more so as no films with the two of them seem to be in the pipeline in the near future. But whatever it was, it fizzled out and Sid was back to playing parking lot games with just Kiara. Jacqueline in the meantime got busy with her own life and since it was the pandemic months, nothing much was heard about her – professionally and personally until... This ‘breaking news’ info about her being serious about a South based businessman appeared in the local tabs. Good for her, we thought, and quickly called her up to know more. But, all she did was laugh loudly... and maintained a sphinx like silence ‘officially’ like all our Tinsel Town actors do when asked about their love affairs’.

The real truth allegedly burst out in the open in the form of intimate pictures of Jacqueline ‘cosy’ing up to the alleged conman businessman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.

Off the record, Jacqueline’s demeanour said it all... and so we let it rest. Good going gal, we said and moved our antennas to the next ‘happening’ affair and scandal in Bollywood. Things seemed to be hunky dory until the news filtered in that Jacqueline had been summoned by the ED (Enforcement Directorate) in a money laundering case amounting to Rs 200 crores. Supposedly, our sexy Jackie ignored four of the summons of the ED citing “I have professional responsibilities”. But things got to a boil and she was stopped at the Mumbai airport from leaving the country – she was going along with Salman Khan for the Dabangg tour to be held in Riyadh. And though Jackie dearest tried to pull as many strings as possible, it was to no avail. The matter was serious and she had to face the brunt of it. However, after a few days, the real truth allegedly burst out in the open in the form of intimate pictures of Jacqueline ‘cosy’ing up to the alleged conman businessman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. The snaps went viral and the internet was on fire. Sukesh supposedly had flooded the sexy lady with some super expensive gifts. In Sukesh Chandrasekhar’s statement recorded under Section 50 of the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act), Sukesh had said that he gave as many as 15 pairs of earrings, five Birkin bags, and other luxury goods from Chanel, Gucci to the actor. The conman also claimed that he gifted Jacqueline Fernandez Cartier bangles and rings and a bracelet by Tiffany & Co. in addition to Rolex watches. He also gave Jacqueline Fernandez jewellery worth Rs 7 crore and gifted her a horse called ‘Espuelah’.

In Sukesh Chandrasekhar’s statement recorded under Section 50 of the PMLA, Sukesh had said that he gave as many as 15 pairs of earrings, five Birkin bags, and other luxury goods from Chanel, Gucci to the actor. Chandrasekhar also gifted Jackie a mini cooper which she returned, as per the charge sheet. The charge sheet also reads that he had gifted a BMW car to Geraldine Fernandez, the sister of Jacqueline who is living in the US. As per the charge sheet he also gave around $1,80,000 and a Porche car to the mother of Jacqueline. Currently, Jackie’s alleged involvement and relationship with prime accused Sukesh Chandrasekhar is being investigated by the central agency. Until now, the actress has recorded her statement thrice in front of the ED. 27

Currently, Jackie’s alleged involvement and relationship with prime accused Sukesh Chandrasekhar is being investigated by the central agency.

Supposedly, to win Jackie’s confidence, Sukesh Chandrasekhar called her up and made her believe that he was speaking from Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s office. So how did Sukesh Chandrasekhar get through Jacqueline in the first place? Supposedly, to win Jackie’s confidence, Sukesh Chandrasekhar called her up and made her believe that he was speaking from Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s office, according to the charge sheet lodged against him. This call was made by Chandrasekhar to Shan Muthathil, the make-up artist of the actress. Supposedly, Jackie who initially avoided Sukesh, started talking to him after the high-profile call. The actress, in her statement, recorded before ED officials admitted that her sister took a loan of $1,50,000 from Chandrasekhar. She also accepted that he transferred around Rs 15 lakh to the account of her brother who lives in Australia. “I have been speaking to Sukesh since February 2017. In August 2021, he was arrested, after which I never met him. He told me that he is the owner of Sun TV and from the political family of Jayalalithaa,” Jacqueline told the ED, reads the charge sheet.

“I have been speaking to Sukesh since February 2017.” – Jacqueline Fernandez

The charge sheet also revealed that Pinky Irani, an aide of Chandrasekhar, introduced herself to Jacqueline’s staff as Angel. She had introduced Chandrasekhar to the actress. It was Irani who used to select luxury gifts for Jacqueline and deliver them to the actress. Quite a scandal… We tried to get Jacqueline to say something regarding this but to no avail. Currently, Jacqueline is shooting for Rohit Shetty’s film Cirkus opposite Ranveer Singh. After this, she will be off to the sets of Attack starring John Abraham. Hmm… looks like our pretty Jackie is entangled in some heavy duty issues that doesn’t look as if it will go away in a hurry. Will she manage to get out of this mess? Who knows? Of course, she does have some very powerful friends like Salman Khan… will he help her get out of this? Or will Jackie pay for the conman’s sins? Let’s wait ‘n’ watch… 29

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GET S NA PPY

“I would not call myself ‘choosy’, I just prefer quality over quantity.

So when I was offered Special Ops 1.5, I loved it!”

– Aftab Shivdasani A tad under-rated, Aftab Shivdasani has always proved himself as a competent actor. In fact currently, he’s garnering rave reviews for his character in Special Op 1.5. In an exclusive interview with Sumita Chakraborty, he talks about his show Special Ops 1.5, his journey and more. 32

You’re one of the most underrated actors in the entertainment industry but an amazing performer, why do we see so less of you on screen? I am humbled that you think that way and thank you for your compliment. But I don’t see it this way. I like doing work that I believe in and that excites me. I want to do more work. But I have set a standard for myself which I don’t compromise on. That’s why I chose quality over quantity. I am humbled that my fans have given me so much love and respect and been with me in my journey till now. I’m hoping to do more good work.

Tell us about Special Op 1.5 and your character in it? What made you pick this show after so long, are you choosy? I would not call myself ‘choosy’, I just prefer quality over quantity. So when I was offered Special Ops 1.5, I loved it! I always wanted to work with Neeraj (Pandey) sir – I always admired him and like everyone else who had watched Special Ops 2020, I was an admirer of the show. I sent him a message then, congratulating him and everyone else. I didn’t know at that point that I would be a part of the next one. So when I got this offer from his casting team, I was very excited.

“It was fab working with Kay Kay sir he’s the most unassuming and the most down to earth person.”

He gave me a script to read and told me about my character, I was very excited. After that, it was a no brainer for me. I wanted to work with Neeraj sir, I wanted to work on my character. Vijay, my character will always be very special to me forever. I am grateful that people loved this character.

He is nothing like that. He’s the most kindhearted, soft spoken and a simple person to talk to. That’s what connected the both of us. Working with an actor of his calibre raises your standards as well. There is so much that I have learned just being with him and spending time with him off the camera. We spent a lot of time personally as well.”

How was it working with Kay Kay Menon? It was fab working with Kay Kay sir - he’s the most unassuming and the most down to earth person. It’s very contrary to what people think of him as one angry person to talk to who will come down heavily upon you.

Is there any special preparation that you’ve gone through to prepare for the role? The beauty of working with somebody like Neeraj Pandey is that he beautifully covers all aspects as a writer and as an actor when you get the script and when you go through it,

“I’m glad people have liked the show and my character has been appreciated a lot. It’s a nice feeling and inspires me to do better work but I don’t take all this too seriously though – I just like to move on and work harder.” 34

there’s very little room for doubt. He’s covered much more and that makes life much easier as an actor. So when I was offered this character, everything – from the parameters to the nuances was very well-defined on paper itself. You don’t have any questions or doubts regarding it. Of course, whatever physical preparation was required for the role, I went through it – I had to look a certain way for the character to which he was instrumental in. Everything was so well defined in the script that one didn’t have to do much except just to translate what was written on paper to reality.

Special Ops has been received well and so has your character, so all your hard work has paid up, how do you feel? Well, it’s a gratifying moment that the show has been appreciated and everybody’s hard work has paid off. We had shot during the pandemic and the amount of quarantine and safety measures we had taken to execute this, has not been easy. I don’t want to go into the details but people don’t generally see what happens behind the scenes when you work for a film or a web-series, but we were up for the challenge and we decided to give our best shot. And hats of to Friday Filmworks and Sheetal sir who seamlessly made us feel safe and so easy for us.

“It’s been 22 years but I don’t encapsulate it in words. It’s been an adventurous journey which has had a lot of ups and downs.”

Coming back to the show, I’m glad people have liked the show and my character has been appreciated a lot. It’s a nice feeling and inspires me to do better work but I don’t take all this too seriously though – I just like to move on and work harder. When you look back, how has your journey been, as an actor? I get asked this a lot. It’s been 22 years but I don’t encapsulate it in words. It’s been an adventurous journey which has had a lot of ups and downs. It’s taught me a lot. It’s

“I don’t care about name tags or anything else; if you are accepted by the audiences, it’s the biggest test.” 36

taught me to be patient. I am grateful to have got so much love and respect in my career. I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I’m doing what I love most that’s all what matters to me. I love acting and I want to be in it as long as I’m alive. It’s an amazing feeling. I feel that even after 22 years there’s so much I need to achieve. In fact, I haven’t even begun as yet and I’m not saying this out of modesty. I genuinely believe this that there’s so much more for me to do. I just try to inspire myself and I hope I do justice to the work that is offered to me in the future.

“You can’t influence the minds of the audience. It’s an individual’s talent and capability that ultimately matters.”

There is this huge brouhaha about nepotism and insiders versus outsiders, what is your take on this? I don’t really look at nepotism or ‘insider and outsiders’ in any way because if you are accepted by the audiences that’s the ultimate judge. I don’t care about name tags or anything else; if you are accepted by the audiences, it’s the biggest test. Every actor should put in their hard-work and sincerity... and leave it to the audience because the audience doesn’t care about your surname. You can’t influence the minds of the audience. It’s an individual’s talent and capability that ultimately matters. If you are accepted by the audience, then that’s it! What’s next? Are there any more of your web series or films that we can look forward to seeing in the future? I haven’t actively started shooting for anything but I am actively in discussion and I will share details once things are finalised. 37

GET S NA PPY

“One should take out time for important things in life that gives you happiness!” Yami Gautam on her perception of life, her career and success

O Yami Gautam is indeed unstoppable this year especially as the stunner has as many as eight releases lined up next, and so obviously, she’s going to be all set to capture the screens. And though her marriage to her gorgeous Uri director Aditya Dhar was a private affair and one did think perhaps she would settle down in her own beautiful life with her hubby and do less films but no, Yami who is literally hopping from one set to another, is all set to dazzle in Tinsel Town. Recently, we caught up with Yami Gautam and spoke to her about her new phase in her career. 39

O Yami responded by answering that she is thankful to have this opportunity of working on diverse projects simultaneously. And, with each project, she aims to become stronger as an actor and breathes renewed life into each character! Yami, known for having a very keen sense of choosing great projects, believes that an actor is as good as the script. The actress feels that content is the ultimate hero to produce a well received and successful film. So what about her personal life, does that get a backseat since she is so busy? Yami laughs and says that one should take out time for important things in life that gives you happiness and urged everyone to just breathe. 40

Having a packed slate this year and riding high on the success of back-to-back projects, the actress determines her success on factors besides just box office numbers audience acceptance as an actor and a consistent passion for perfection* Yami who is currently in Kolkata shooting for her next investigative thriller, ‘Lost’ which is directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury – Yami will be playing a crime reporter in the film.Apart from that, she also has ‘A Thursday,’ ‘Dasvi,’ and ‘Bhoot Police,’ among others, in the pipeline.

T HE S POTLIG HT

Four Film-makers To Look Forward to in 2022 2022 and Bollywood is on fire. Great content, celluloid excellence and masti are the key features this year. We pick four filmmakers who are all ready to set the stage on fire with their ambitious projects. There is already a ton of excitement among cine lovers for 2022 for obvious reasons! Many filmmakers’ most ambitious projects are on the horizon of release next year, thus the palpable anticipation for the new cine-term. From a larger-than-life action-drama to venturing into the tricky space of horror-comedy - we have some of the most hair-raising line-ups ahead. Here’s looking at four filmmakers who have already hooked us to our screens with their announcements Faruk Kabir Touted as one of the most inspiring filmmakers, Faruk Kabir has Khuda Haafiz: Chapter II – Agni Pariksha due for 2022. The sequel to the 2020 blockbuster, the film already promises to feature a never-before-seen action drama on screen.

Aditya Dhar Aditya Dhar, who made the biggest hit of 2019 and bagged a National Film Award for URI: The Surgical Strike, is working on one of the most monumental projects, The Immortal Ashwatthama. The trilogy is a superhero action film set in modern times.

Ayan Mukerji Known for his modern sensibilities as a filmmaker, Ayan Mukerji has finally announced the release date of his most-awaited project, Brahmãstra. The motion poster of the film has already stirred the internet. It is said to be part of a triology.

Amar Kaushik Hailed for his exciting takes in films like Bala and Stree, Amar Kaushik is all set to take the audience on a horror-comedy journey with Bhediya. Bringing the suspense and laughter of Stree back, the film stars Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon in the lead roles. 41

WEB LIS T

10 2021

best web series of

to binge-watch before the year ends... As the year comes to an end, looking back at 2021 we reminisce about the super ‘lit’ content we watched throughout the year. A major portion of the year has gone by binge-watching shows on content streaming platforms or OTT platforms from the comfort of your home. With the rise in content in different genres, makers are challenging themselves to come up with unique concepts for shows and the ones that the audiences will binge-watch. Due to the number of choices, there might be a few that might have missed the opportunity to binge-watch the wonderful shows listed below.

Family Man S2 The Family Man is a must watch as it is a fun-filled series that manages to keep you at the edge of your seats. The story revolves around Srikant (actor Manoj Bajpayee), a middle-class man who works for a clandestine government agency, dealing with a rather high-profile commitment and dedication to serving while wanting to protect his family. The connections between the family members of this show will make you laugh yet get a parent point of view in a hypothetical situation as well. 42

Mumbai Diaries Mumbai Diaries web-based on Amazon Prime Video is a medical drama set against the 26/11 terrorist attacks in Mumbai that stars Mohit Raina and Konkana Sen Sharma among others. The series takes viewers on an emotional roller coaster ride as it highlights the terror attacks that shook Mumbai on November 26, 2008. The show sheds light on the plight of the medical workers in the emergency room of a government hospital during the attacks. If you haven’t watched it already it definitely must be on your watch list before the year ends.

Gullak Gullak is set in the backdrop of a middleclass family in a small north Indian town, trying to get by within their modest means. The constant need to ramp up their living standard sometimes gets them into tricky and complicated situations. The character of mother Shanti, played by Geetanjali Kulkarni makes a superb pivot as the spouseand-mother who keeps the ball rolling yet still irks everybody except with sufficient energy that drives the family to bring out the best in them.

Cartel Cartel is a story of five underworld gangsters who rule Mumbai with their business. The story is driven by Raani Maai played by the versatile Supriya Pathak. It features how 5 crime masters, situated in various spaces of the city, conduct their criminal operations. The gangs are eager for power and the only ones to utilize their knowledge will manage the hidden world of Mumbai. This thrilling underworld drama series is streaming on Alt Balaji. 43

Operation MBBS S2 Operation MBBS by Dice Media was an instant hit in its first season which highlighted the journey of three medical aspirants. In its second season, the show brings to light the sacrifices made by the medical community when the pandemic hit the world. The series also covers the intense 2nd year of MBBS, along with new twists in the lives of its protagonists, played by Ayush Mehra, Sarah Hashmi, and Anshul Chauhan as well as Geetanjali Kulkarni. Both the seasons can be watched on Dice Media’s Youtube channel.

Aspirants Aspirants, a mini-series on TVF revolves around the story of 3 UPSC students and their struggle to clear their examination. The story shifts between the past that shows the struggle of the aspirants to prepare for the UPSC exam and the present which shows the aftermath of the exam.

Little Things S4 After 3 successful seasons over the years, Little Things came up with the season finale this year. Thes show revolves around the millennial couple, Dhruv and Kavya as they navigate through responsibilities, adulthood and growing up together. Created by Dice Media and now acquired by Netflix, Little Things has shown the details of everyday life and how it made the feeling of love so beautiful. 44

Bombay Begums

Bombay Begums showcases the lives of 5 women from various walks of life in Mumbai, as they try to hustle their way around the chauvinistic culture and break stereotypes. Though divided by socio-economic disparity, these women are seen as united in their struggle to stay relevant and to be heard in the city of dreams, Mumbai. The series can be binge-watched on Netflix to see how these 5 women try to shatter the stereotypes in their own unique way.

Hostel Daze S2 Hostel Daze is based on an adult drama that focuses on the life of college students and their life in the hostel. Whereas season 1 highlighted the stress and drama around examinations, Season2, however, focused more on the hostel life and the adventures and experiences of the hostel life. This season shows the cast as the senior students and a whole lot of drama that entails the second-year students. This series is available on Amazon Prime Video for perfect college nostalgia.

Clutch

Clutch, India’s first-ever esports based web series created by Dice Media, is the season’s latest binge-watch series. An underdog team of 4 passionate gamers and one coach come together to participate in a major esports tournament. The show encapsulates the drama around competing for a tough esports tournament and keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats as their mind boggles around the life of players and the action. Featuring Vishal Vashishtha as the lead, the series exhibits this present reality of esports in India and urges youths to consider the potential in this industry for it to be a viable career. Clutch has captivated its viewers with its unique concept and if you want to get in on the action and drama that gaming entails, this is the ideal show for you. The series is currently streaming on Dice Media’s Youtube channel and is a must-watch if you’re an esports fan. 45

STARDUS T S P E CI A L

“Cricket as a sport is worshipped in our country and now having a film made especially on our first World Cup win 38 years back – and the feeling of me being a part of this, is priceless.” – Jatin Sarna The multi-talented Jatin Sarna who plays Yashpal Sharma in the film 83 talks to Sumita Chakraborty about his character in the film 83, bond with director Kabir Khan and Ranveer Singh and more... Tell us about your character in ‘83? I am playing this person - as Sunil Gavaskar says: “The Crisis Man” - Yashpal Sharma, ‘Inventor of the Badam Shot and a Reliable Middle-Order Batsman’. This is a very interesting character. I was actually offered a different role of the bowler Madanlal in the movie before, but it didn’t work out that time. After eight months, I got another call offering me the role of Yashpal Sharma, they chose me for that. I am very happy to play this part rather than any other part in the movie. There is an amazing graph that follows Yashpal Sharma in the movie; the journey of the tour and the match. I didn’t know much about Yashpal Sharma but when I read the script and met Kabir Khan, then I understood the importance of his character in the movie and thereby the

impact on the 1983 India World Cup Team. We always talk about how Yashpal sir didn’t get much recognition for his contributions to the team winning and becoming the Champions of the World. And now when the time has come to relive the story and people will get to know who Yashpal Sharma was, he is not with us anymore. I feel really bad and sad about this. But we know, he will be happy seeing the movie get a good response, and people in our country will finally get to know more about him and his life. To add on, Yashpal Sharma was a middle-order batsman for the Indian cricket team. He scored 89 runs for the team that played very well against the West Indies in the first match and won. He was declared the Man of the Match. Actually, I can say, it was Yashpal Sharma who laid out the basic foundation of the 47

winning spree for India. His spectacular innings again in the semi-finals against the home team England, is something everyone would love to watch. We do have the actual footage but seeing it as a part of the movie on the big screen will bring goose-bumps to every Indian. We are waiting for the movie to release and for everybody to see how disciplined and determined Yashpal Sharma was, who was always there to prove his worth to the team and I have also learned through his passion and focus towards his game and lifestyle. How was it working on an incident based on such a memorable win in cricket? It’s like a dream come true working in this movie. This is such an event that has changed the course of India on the World Map - and me being a part of it is an amazing feeling as an actor. I always wanted to become a cricketer, but it didn’t happen. Now after getting this opportunity, I got to play cricket for over a year and a half. This is something I always wanted and now I was able to fulfil this dream for the big screen. I got a chance to play such a lovely character for such a big project. Cricket as a sport is worshipped in our country and now having a film made especially on our first World Cup win 38 years back – and the feeling of 48

me being a part of this, is priceless. People who were there at that time and who were not born like me and the young generation can see the journey of how the team brought the trophy home especially when there was fewer resources and people didn’t believe in them much. Everyone can see how the team made India proud by winning the cup. I am very thankful to God, my parents, the director and the casting director who chose me to be a part of this project. Any anecdotes you can share working with Kabir Khan and Ranveer Singh? The fun I had working with Kabir Khan sir, is an experience I can never forget. I find myself fortunate and happy to having received this opportunity to work with such a simple and amazing director. My exposure and experience to acting has not just doubled but multiplied a 100 times better. I feel the ease on the set helped me play the character more beautifully and passionately. In fact, everyone - whether in production and direction - did a fabulous job. Working with Ranveer Singh was also very amazing. I also had a lot of fun with my co-actors and we created a great bonding. We used to meet, eat, sit together. Ranveer also made the environment fun-loving throughout the filming. Other co-stars are also very dear friends of mine who used to stay with me. It is an amazing experience with Ranveer Singh and especially Kabir Khan sir and my other Co-star. Have you met Yashpal Sharma and how much did you put his persona in your character? Yes I have met Yashpal Sharma twice actually. I remember our meetings very well. Our first meet was at Dharamshala where we had a 7-8 days camp. He had come to visit, we did dinner together and I observed him for a really long time. The next morning he came for practice, he taught me how to hold the bat. We spoke a lot about gestures, postures, body language while batting and how he used to bring the bat inflow, how to keep an eye on the ball, which

way to see; these he shared with me. Before I left for London, I met him again. He shared his World Cup duration schedule, what he used to do, what he used to eat, what was his schedule, where all he used to go, how he used to concentrate in matches and what all was happening personally in his life. I understood that he was a very focused and determined man. He had a very simple approach towards life, and his focus was only cricket. In fact, when I met his wife recently she said, we would perhaps say, “The team will lose the game and come back”. But Yashpal always had a positive frame of mind and would say, “We will win and come back”. Renu Maam, Yashpal Sharma’s wife was pregnant at that time. She used to go to the neighbour’s house to speak to him on the phone where Yashpal always called after a match. These personal incidents helped me see things in a different manner. I had to put myself in his shoes and used to imagine that my wife is waiting for me... these are the things I kept in my mind while filming 49

on this role and to be in character. When you look back, how has your journey been, as an actor? The journey has been very good so far. Whatsoever has come my way is all because of God’s blessing. I am thankful to God, my parents, my younger brother, my friends and my audience who always loved my work and appreciated it. I have reached here with hard work and believe me it makes me feel very happy to be a part of 83 which is going to release soon. Blessed, truly blessed and I want to work harder, this is my wish. The learning process has always been good. Whatever I feel I am lacking I am working on it and it will help me personally and professionally. There is this huge brouhaha about nepotism and insiders versus outsiders, what is your take on this? I don’t know insider, outsider or nepotism 50

but yes it is a little difficult for outsiders. The opportunity which I got now or wish to get in the future is to do a main lead or a solo lead in the movies. And for such opportunities, it took me 15 years and 15 projects. It has been a long struggle and this is something I would want to achieve. I invested so much time versus an insider for whom this opportunity comes from the start and from a very young age. This is the only difference. But then their parents will obviously do everything for their children and the producers are ready to invest money on them; is their choice. If he gains loss or profit depends on them what they are okay with. This is in the industry and it works like this. To reach that level and after that people believing in us and investing money on us is a different feeling which I am living. This is a debate that will keep on going forever and I don’t wish to be a part of it. I have come to work and I

never thought about my competition with an insider or outsider. I like doing movies and acting which I am doing happily. I have no competition, jealousy or envy with anyone I am following my path of life happily. What’s next? Are there any more of your web series or films that we can look forward to seeing in the future? Currently I am working on a series under the production house of Neeraj Pandey. It is a series for Netflix. I am also working on a movie named Motor,

Machis, Katar. It is a story of one night. This has a very interesting story and we are currently shooting in Mohali for this project. I am playing the lead in this movie. My character name is Sunil and I think this movie will change my course in acting. And from this film onwards I have decided that I want to do some distinctive and exclusive work which will give my audience see different shades of me. I have thought to bring some change after this. So these are the two projects I am currently working on and there are two more which I will announce soon. 51

STARRY LOOK

Hey Beautiful! All about Sara Ali Khans skintillating habits.

She’s the new ‘IT’ gal. Bubbly and super cute, the nawab’s nawaabzaadi Sara Ali Khan, who incidentally is machaoing hulchul with her chaka chak song from her film Atrangi Re starring Akshay Kumar and Dhanush, is known for her flawless complexion and radiant looks. So how does she always look so good? Well, achieving soft, beautiful and happy skin is a dream for most of us or at least a longpending item on our wish list. While there are lot of suggestions, a laundry list of do’s and don’ts to follow, there are some basics that don’t change. Happy skin, you see, is a holistic process that requires one to work on building healthy habits combined with good skincare.

O 53

Cleanse & Moisturise: The first and the simplest step towards healthy skin is regular cleansing and moisturising, it is advisable to use a moisturizing body soap that ensures your skin gets the right nutrients and remains supple and nourished. A great product suited to this requirement is Fiama Gel Bathing Bar, which is enriched with nature’s goodness. Fiama’s bathing bars come in 5 variants and they help moisturize the skin making it appear soft, happy and bouncy. Balanced Diet: Healthy skin is an outcome of a balanced diet. The food we eat provides the building blocks for healthy functioning of our bodies. Our diet has everything to do with the health of our skin. The nutrients, minerals, and proteins found in food support collagen production and healthy cell membranes, and protect skin from harmful stressors, such as UV exposure. Smile: While most of us hate the idea of having crow’s eyes and lines while we smile. We rarely realize the benefits of a simple smile. When we smile the blood flow gets better, and the skin receives more oxygen and nutrients. This can help you develop a healthier complexion alternately it also leaves you stress free making you look happy and radiant. 54

Drink Enough H20: With our bodies comprising of 70% water, drinking sufficient amount of water is the easiest way to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Drinking adequate water helps flush out toxins from our bodies, preventing pimples and acne and boosting the skin’s elasticity. No wonder, water is called the elixir of life. Move Your Body: Along with cleansing and proper nutrition, another aspect which is important for happy skin is movement. When we move or burn calories, the body produces chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in the brain and trigger positive feelings and happy thoughts. This feeling of pure happiness and joy reflects on the skin, thus having the power to completely change your mood and keep you and your skin beaming.

So the next time you want to be like Sara Ali Khan and aspire for soft and happy skin, remember to start with the basics.

MUS IC ROOM

“

Today, even after delivering so many hit songs, people don’t sometime know your face. – Aastha Gill

”

From the super viral party number Naagin to the biggest hit on YouTube and reels – Bachpan Ka Pyaar, Aastha Gill has sung her way into the nation’s heart. In a candid conversation with Sumita Chakraborty, Aastha talks about her songs going viral, her musical journey, politics in the music industry and more… Read on!

Her

pa rty tracks from Naagin, Dj Wale Babu, Kamariya, Paani Paani, Bachpan ka Pyaar to so many more have garnered more than 205 million views and become the national anthem of the youth. Meet the gorgeous singer Aastha Gill who by the way was even one of the singers invited to sing at Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal’s lavish wedding. Well, not only has she stunned the audience with her sensational voice and versatility, her collaboration with the king of remixes, super star Badshah and actress Jacqueline Fernandes for the song ‘Paani Paani’ garnered a whopping 522 million views so far. Aastha following that up with the viral ‘Bachpan ka Pyaar’ with the song creator himself Sahdev Dirdo and Badshah - the song was trending on no.1 on YouTube and also all the streaming sites. Recently, she also released her song ‘Saawariya’ in a collaboration with iconic singer Kumar Sanu. …Read on as Aastha talks about her musical journey and more. Could you describe your musical journey? Well, my musical journey has been great with many ups and down - and that’s the beauty of it and that’s how one learns in the process. With God’s grace, I was able to do what I wanted in my early days with my parents being acceptable about it and my passion for music couldn’t stop anything in the way. You’re known for your party tracks, can you tell us how you started on this? I like singing peppy kind of songs but I like other kinds of music as well. I personally am a very party person so I ended up doing such songs but I’ll be definitely trying more genres this year and exploring new boundaries.

Your track Bachpan ka pyaar went viral, tell us about it? I am thrilled with the response to the Bachpan ka Pyaar song. Honestly, it was just a random idea and not something we had planned about, it was quite spontaneous. 58

“Right then, sitting in the green room we decided to make a reel on Bachpan ka Pyaar and it just went so viral.”

Badshah, me and Rico were going for a show and in the green room, Badshah bhai mentioned about this kid going viral. He had composed a song on it and made me hear it - and I thought it was quite cool. Right then, sitting in the green room we decided to make a reel on it and it just went so viral again. Post release, it became huge - I am still in wonder. Haha.

You released your song ‘Saawariya’ in collaboration with ‘Kumar Sanu’ which was a chartbuster. Tell us about it? Yes, with Saawariya I wanted to experiment something new in terms of the genre. I think, I have never worked on a song like this before and it was something very new for me. Honestly, when I heard the track for the first time, the hook tune was stuck in my head for long and I really wanted to do it. I think this idea was one of the best and craziest from Badshah bhai. I never thought I would get the opportunity to work with the legendary Kumar Sanu. It was a dream come true and great fun working with him on the sets too. When you hear the song, as soon as Kumar Da voice comes in, it takes you back to the ‘90s era.

“I never thought I would get the opportunity to work with the legendary Kumar Sanu. It was a dream come true and great fun working with him on the sets too.” always been very kind and guided me to do the best. It is such a chill vibe working with him and the space he creates for collaborations to flourish is great. It is super fun and I love working with him always. I would like to do million more songs with him.

What’s written in destiny will happen irrespective of politics in music.”

What about Bollywood? We are working on some playback tracks for upcoming movies. …Any anecdotes while collaborating with Badshah that you can share with us? My experience with Badshah bhai has always being incredible. He is like family to me and when we work on a project, it is more like family working together. Badshah bhai has 60

Tell us about the independent music scene – are you also a part of it? Oh yes, definitely! I am a part of Independent music and thoroughly enjoy doing singles. As an artist, it gives you the freedom to be the way you are and to create the music in the way you want. I personally feel that the Indian Independent music has a long way to go and it’s just the beginning of that era.

“As an outsider, it wasn’t difficult to enter without being from a filmi family, because I was discovered despite not being from an industry family.” Who are your fave music directors? I like Badshah, Pritam, Vishal Dadlani, RD Burman, Mithoon and the list goes on.

You come from a non filmi family, was it difficult to stepping into the film industry because of this? Honestly, I have grown up listening to my dad around the house as he is an occasional singer too and that pushed me to become one. Bollywood was always part of our family as audiences. As an outsider, it wasn’t difficult to enter without being from a filmi family, because I was discovered despite not being from an industry family. But I believe, it’s one’s craft and effort that make us a true artist.

“Why I did the Khatron Ke Khiladi is because I felt that I needed some change and adventure post pandemic.”

Any challenges you’ve faced as a singer? Honestly, I have faced challenge but not because I am female as such. I feel everyone faces challenges, if I’ll see Badshah Bhai’s journey even he has faced a lot of challenges. Challenges are always there and I guess that’s what really pushes us to overcome them. But today, even after delivering so many hit songs, people don’t sometime know your face because the general image of singers in Bollywood is of a playback artist. A lot of people have asked me if I was the model in the Buzz song, whereas I have sung it. But, I think it is getting better now and it will get much better in the coming times.

Tell us about your stint in Khatron Ke Khiladi. What made you take it up? It was my television debut and Khatron Ke Khiladi has been one of my favourite shows since I was young. I used to be glued to the TV watching all episodes. So when I got this opportunity in hand - in the beginning, I was bit stuck as I have never done TV and I wondered if I would be able to do it. Why I did the show is because I felt that I needed some change and adventure post pandemic. I think it was one of the best decisions of my life and I thoroughly enjoyed the process and made some great friends through the show.

What are your thoughts on politics in music? Haha, I’m a very happy go lucky person and I don’t indulge in politics of any kind. What’s written in destiny will happen irrespective of politics in music.

What’s next in terms of future projects? I have planned a lot of collaborations and a lot of singles are on the way too. Also, I have been working on my album. You’ll be hearing a lot from me in coming time.

“You’ll be hearing a lot from me in coming time.”

Stardust on the go Janhvi Kapoor gets into the skin of the character of the iconic ‘Poo’

The gorgeous Katrina Kaif poses

Are actors outside their shooting world as glamorous as they look on the silver screen? Can female actors in Tinsel Town be good friends? Who are the new lovebirds in B-town? Team Stardust brings you a bird eye’s view into the private lives of Tinsel Town eye candies.

Aanand Rai, Akshay Kumar and Sara Ali Khan’s masti and magic

Sara Ali Khan looks super cute in green

Ravena Tandon ravishes even chilling on a manicured green lawn

Hrthik Roshan in a super sexy bearded avtaar

Ranbir Kapoor looks super ripped

Sidharth Malhotra all set to break all barriers

Kiara Advani looks super hot in the cold

Kareena Kapoor Khan dazzles though she tested Covid positive later

Priyanka Chopra sensuously carries off a pigtail

Vicky Kaushal with his co-stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana

Sushmita Sen with her li’l one.

StarrySashay ...Red hot and daring! Sensuous, sexy and sensational, red sure is the hue of the party season, and so can our Bollywood sparklers stay far behind? Whether it’s a fitting fiery ‘ten on ten’ gown, short chilli red dress or stunning scarlet pant suit... on the fashion scale, the trend factor goes on a super over drive. And guess what, these beautiful girls in red ace the style game every single time. That’s right... you just can’t go wrong with red. It always raises the temp sky high. So what are you waiting for…? Get your rating grades and mark the actresses according to who flaunted the hottest red look best.

Janhvi Kapoor

Madhuri Dixit

Priyanka Chopra

Vaani Kapoor

Kriti Sanon

Anushka Sharma

Bipasha Basu

Kiara Advani

Sunny Leone

Kareena Kapoor Khan

Sonam Kapoor

Katrina Kaif

m o r f t s a l B t s a p e th

The

Incorrigible

Mr. Shiney Ahuja

“

Name Any Actor And I’ll Strip Him Apart Completely.

SHINEY AHUJA, once termed the most arrogant actor with an attitude that repels you, has come a long way. When he entered the industry, all eyes were on him as he was touted as the next big thing. He had big filmmakers lining up at his doorstep; top heroines vying to star opposite him; basically, Shiney was on a roll. But somewhere in between, the cookie began to crumble as stories about his starry attitude and lack of professionalism started doing the rounds. His intense involvement in his films was termed gross interference by his detractors. 68

His

problems with co-stars like Akshay Kumar and Preity Zinta made headlines. In an industry that seldom gives anyone a second chance Shiney was pushed into a corner – isolated and targeted. And his hot-headedness during crisis time made things only worse. But things have changed over the past few months. Shiney has learnt the fine art of patience and somehow, one attributes that to the arrival of his new bundle of joy, his daughter Arshiya. But the actor maintains he has mellowed down because he now knows the diplomatic workings of the industry. In a no-holds-barred interview, Shiney finally lets off steam and says it like it is.

You recently bagged the Hollywood film ‘Silver Chord’ where you play the role of an American. Was this move a deliberate attempt to cash in on the latest trend of going international post ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and join the bandwagon? There is no deliberate planning or scheming in these kinds of things. If a good film and a good script comes your way, I think any actor would say yes. Whether anyone has done a Hollywood film before or not makes no differences to my life. What affects my life is the kind of films I do. So just because someone else has done Hollywood projects in the past, it’s no reason for me to do so.

are any expectations or not. The only expectation that I have to live up to in my life is being Shiney Ahuja who is a husband, a father and a son and fending for my family. That’s the only thing I have to take care of. I am responsible for my own work and not for another actor’s performance in the film.

My decision is independent of what anyone is doing in their lives. Do you mean to say that I should not be a part of a film, which could win an Oscar? Right now, there are huge expectations from me. I had done a film called ‘Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi’ and then ‘Gangster’ where I got lot of appreciation then ‘Hijack’ did not perform well and suddenly, the expectations were not there. So it doesn’t matter if there

What made you do a disaster of the film like ‘Hijack’? For someone who has always boasted of being a scriptfocused actor, how could you go so wrong? You’ve heard the song from ‘Sholay’ – ‘Yeh dosti…’ so it was friendship. I have broken a couple of rules I should not have, because of my friendship with the director (Kunal Shivdasani). I usually don’t step into a film until I am happy with the script.

The director told me that we would work on it when the film is underway so he asked me to step into it and not to say no then. I had read the script 15 days before we started shooting for the film. Finally, when it came on paper, it was not what we had spoken about. But I was assured that it still could be worked on and if I watched the film and was not happy with it, it wouldn’t be release. Moreover, I was told that if there was something to be re-shot, it would be done. But that didn’t happen. When I saw the rough cut, I knew that the film wouldn’t work. Unfortunately, I was shown the film just five days before the release. It was a big risk and it didn’t pay off.

Some of your best hits were with the Bhatts and you were even termed as their blue-eyed-boy. But one doesn’t see you in any of their future projects. Why have you parted ways? I keep talking to Bhatt sahab on a personal level but professionally, let’s see how things happen. There are many things, which will have to come together before a film’s release. He knows me; he knows my work more than anybody else regardless of who he works with. Also, when the time is right, things will happen. From being the most sought-after debutant to being the most troublesome actor, you have become unpopular rather quickly. With an attitude like that, where do you think you were heading? I just wish I had better PR back then and I just wish I knew somebody from the film industry who would’ve told me there is no point in being blunt over here with anybody. You just have to be nice to everyone and diplomatic in answering questions.

Nobody will respect you if you are blunt. People will only respect you if you are diplomatic or sweet on their face. And these are the lessons I learnt only with experience. When I came, I was very forthright and if someone is really smart he will respect you for it and he is the only person not playing a game with you while all the others do. That’s because he will risk his own reputation to tell you the truth.

“I just wish somebody from the film industry had told me there is no point in being blunt over here with anybody. I was not prepared for success. Though I was prepared for failure, all the success that came after ‘Gangster’ I was just not prepared for.” That’s how I was because I would expect the same thing from other people. Because you always want to assume that the other person is a refl ection of yourself. I wish I knew somebody earlier who would have educated me. I was not prepared for success. Though I was prepared for failure, all the success that came after ‘Gangster’ I was just not prepared for.

to his or her talent, it’s not very easy. The point is – who am I? I am Shiney Ahuja. I would say that success and failures are a part of life and if you can’t learn from your failures then that’s a failure really. There is not even one person who has not failed. You’ll win a couple of battles and you’ll lose a couple but the idea is to win the war.

In spite of the hit films that you were a part of, you are still not considered in the A-league of actors? Does that bother you? I don’t know the clear definition of an A-league actor. I never got a solo-hit film in that sense. Even ‘Gangster’ was publicised with Emraan Hashmi in it and that’s how they positioned the film. Nevertheless, I am fortunate to be applauded for my performance in the film and be noticed by people. There are always two sides to a coin. Maybe for a couple of people, I am not in the A-league. But some think I am better than the A-league. I am saying this as a possibility in terms of talent.

You didn’t get along with most of your co-stars – from Preity Zinta to Esha Deol to Eesha Koppikhar. They found you excessively interfering. What do you have to say? Now anything that I will say to this will become a quote. From the time I have come in the industry, have you ever seen me bitching about other people or my costars? You have known me for two years now; have you ever read any article where I have bitched about anyone? I don’t do that.

It is just a question of point of view or just a way of putting it across. Different people perceive things differently. You name any actor and I will strip him apart completely and tell you why. In fact, even you can strip apart any actor; it’s very easy. However, if you have to position a person according 73

The day I start losing focus on my work is the day I will start thinking of competition also because I will not be doing my best. Then I will be wondering why things are not happening. So even now, when I look at ‘Hijack’, I don’t cringe. I admit it was not good. I was there to act; not to direct the film. The kind of energy and dedication I put in ‘Gangster’ is the same that I put in ‘Hijack’ but if the story was completely illogical, there is nothing an actor can do beyond a point. I don’t think there were so many issues while working as it was put across in the media. Also, when you work with someone day in and day out, there are ought to be times when you don’t agree with each other. It happens with everyone. But that gets unnecessary attention in the media.

‘Gangster’ came a long time ago and you have not had a single hit since then. Is there an added pressure to prove yourself yet again especially when the competition has intensified with the new breed of actors like Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan stepping in? I am oblivious to it. The thought does not even come to my mind. Every year, so many people come in the industry and everyone comes with their own kismet and their own fate. I cannot change theirs and they cannot change mine. My work and my attitude towards my work will decide my fate. Someone coming and giving a brilliant performance is not going to make my performance any better or any worse. 74

In the industry where you have to maintain good relationships with film-makers, your clashes with them will only work against you. Moreover, in a place where your sweet talking skills are put to test, how far will your bluntness take you? You will be surprised that the best of friends that I made were at that time. See, success will get you more enemies than friends. So you should just take it as a part and parcel of this profession and there is nothing you can do about it. I think, in the long run, my hard work will pay off. In the beginning, it won’t. It is the harder route I have taken. Every time, when the list that comes out stating the next number one, everyone says that you have to be a PR whiz kid. But finally, the person who tops the number one list is being applauded for his work. Either I should have a very good producer who is backing me in most of the films I am doing or else you have got to take the harder route. I don’t have a godfather who gives me brightest, the most publicised films every year, and all I have to do is work in them and do a couple of endorsements.

Either you get everything on a silver platter or as they say, Khudi ko kar buland itna ki khuda hi tujhse pooche bata teri razza kya hai. So that’s the route I have to take. Either ways, the destination is the same. It is in my destiny. I will get what I want but I will have to work for it.

Why were you so secretive about your family earlier? The right word would not be secretive; it would be possessive. Also it was more of my wife’s decision than mine. She didn’t want to get involved in all this. Now I have a daughter and we both were very sure we are going to have kids and that one of us should have a normal life. Our daughter should feel like a normal person; otherwise with two celebrity parents what life will the kid have?

“I was assured that if I watched the film (‘Hijack’) and was not happy with it, it wouldn’t be released. I was told that if there was something to be re-shot, it would be done. But that didn’t happen. When I saw the rough cut, I knew that the film wouldn’t work.” I have never hidden my marriage. If you watch any of my films, my wedding ring has always been there on my finger even when I’m playing a bachelor. If somebody assumes that I was not married then the assumption is their view-point but that doesn’t change the truth. If someone didn’t know I was not married earlier then probably they have not asked me that. 75

You’ve been lambasted often for your attitude problems. Do such things still rattle you or have you grown accustomed to this badgering? There is not even one star who is not subjected to things that are not true. You just learn to live with it. I know that most of what was put up to me was not true. Some people did talk negative about me and there were others who spoke positively but that’s never been written. Why don’t you ask Vidya Balan or Shilpa Shetty or even Chitrangada Singh what they think about me?

“There are always two sides to a coin. Maybe for a couple of people, I am not in the A-league. But some think I am better than the A-league.” 76

Has fatherhood changed Shiney? Has it mellowed you as a person? I am exactly the same person. Only people’s perception has changed. Earlier I used to get provoked a lot. People used to provoke me just to get reactions out of me. Now it doesn’t happen that much; it’s much better. I guess people like me more now. It’s nothing but acceptance of talent and personality, I guess. It is rumoured that you have increased your price. At the time when your movies are not doing so well, don’t you feel such demands would be a sure deterrent in getting good projects? I have never asked for any money from anybody; I’ve always got an offer. How can anybody decide how much money one should get? If I have quoted a sum, it’s because someone must have paid or offered it to me. Why would I want to ask someone for a price that no one will pay? If I am asking for a price, it means I like the script and if we are talking all this then we are sitting on the negotiation table. And I am going to talk about the price that I got before, right? Otherwise, if I just go on quoting a price, I will not be able to do the film.

You’ve got so much going against you in the industry. In a place where only diplomacy works, you are not on anybody’s good books. Isn’t that a kind of professional harakiri? See, for every actor, every film is a battle. I am not fighting anybody; I am just concentrating on my work. Is the peg of your story, ‘Is Shiney committing professional suicide?’

I am on good terms with everybody that I have worked with and whatever you’ve heard or read are just stories. It’s really surprising because sometimes, these stories are so far from reality and there is no other way of proving it. It’s better that you concentrate on your work like the horse with the blinders on; else you will never be able to do your work properly. That’s the lesson I’ve learnt.

FAST FORWARD He didn’t have any Godfather – no, not even Mahesh Bhatt – but nothing could stop this gorgeous hero from climbing up the ladder of success to grab his portion of glittering star dust. His medium budget films were all hits and in a short time, he became one of the most sought after heroes in the industry. His drool-some smile, screen presence and charisma made him the darling of the nation. Yes, we are talking about the infamous Shiney Ahuja who was said to be the talk of the industry. At one point, he had everything on a platter and that, people in the know said, made him a tad arrogant. And then everything collapsed like a deck of cards. He was accused of raping his maid and though Shiney insisted that he was innocent but it was too late, the incriminating evidence at the crime scene proved otherwise. He was arrested and imprisoned in jail. That’s when Shiney realized that success was indeed fleeting as practically all his new found friends disappeared during his stint in jail. After that allegedly according to a section of the media, there was some kind of settlement made and the maid did a volte face - Shiney after being in prison for some time,

got out but that’s when he discovered that his so-called success had burned down to ashes and all the producers and directors who had queued outside his door disappeared like a whiff of smoke. Shiney after the horrific incident could never get his foothold back in the industry. He was last seen in Welcome in 2015 but after that he disappeared. The public and the media played judge, jury and prosecutor and he was sentenced to obscurity for life, which is a pity really… Shiney Ahuja was indeed an actor who showed a lot of promise. - Sumita Chakraborty

Stardust - December 2021

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